Capitol News

Attorney General Dana Nessel has sent a cease and desist notice to MTVRS, LLC, a Texas-based company, alleging it used deceptive practices to sell tickets online to Mackinac Island attractions. The Michigan Attorney General’s office claims the company violated the Michigan Consumer Protection Act by operating two websites that misled consumers into thinking they were buying official tickets.

“Mackinac Island welcomes more than a million visitors each year, and they deserve to know that the tickets they purchase online will get them onto the ferry and into popular attractions,” Nessel said. “My office remains committed to pursuing bad actors who attempt to take advantage of Michigan residents and visitors.”

According to the Attorney General's notice, one website operated by MTVRS—fortmackinactickets.com—mimics the official Fort Mackinac ticket site. Official tickets are sold through mackinacparks.com by a governmental agency responsible for park preservation. The state contends MTVRS used misleading logos and marked-up prices on its site. Although there is a disclaimer stating no connection with Fort Mackinac, it appears far down the page after several opportunities for consumers to buy tickets. The Attorney General argues this does not meet disclosure requirements under state law.

A second website run by MTVRS, mackinacticketing.com, allegedly copies schedule information and addresses from Shepler’s Ferry, making it seem as if customers are purchasing directly from sheplersferry.com. The state also alleges MTVRS adds an extra $7.95 fee before using customer payment information to buy actual tickets from Shepler’s official site.

Operators of both Fort Mackinac and Shepler’s Ferry have reported several cases in which visitors arrived with only an email from MTVRS indicating a purchase had been made; these emails were not valid for entry or boarding.

MTVRS has until October 6 to remove or change its websites in accordance with Michigan law and discuss compliance with the Department of Attorney General. If not resolved, litigation and civil fines may follow.