A nearly 40-year long relationship ended last week when the Isles of Shoals Steampship Co. announced it would no longer provide ferry service to Star Island during the upcoming tourist season. Company owner Robin Whittaker cited increased security regulations and logistical difficulties as the reasons behind the change.

"It's something I've been looking at for the last five years," Whittaker said. "The ferry service is a small part of our entire operation."

The ferry M/V Thomas Laighton shuttled visitors to and from the Star Island conference center for almost 40 years. Along with visitors, the boat took water, supplies, freight and mail to the island. Whittaker said tougher homeland security rules over the last few years have made it more difficult for the company to transport passengers and cargo to Star Island. The island is privately owned by the Star Island Corporation and has hosted weekly religious and educational conferences each summer since 1897. Star Island is also home to the Oceanic Hotel and the Rutledge Marine Lab. Approximately 8,000 people visit the island for conferences and day trips each season.

"The difference is when I'm actually stopping somewhere and taking supplies and people that are not my guests...the burden of risk falls on us because we're the vessel operator," she said. "It became very stressful."

By focusing less on regulations and added security issues, Whittaker said the company can improve the educational and customer service aspects of its operation.

"We're going to expand what we offer...and educate people in a fun way about our wonderful port and the diversity it has," she said.

The split was amicable, said Deborah L. Tombleson, director of development and community relations for Star Island Corp.

"We're sorry to see the relationship with the steamship company end," she said. "The conference center has gotten bigger and (Whittaker) wanted to focus on being a sightseeing boat, not a transport or freight boat."

Last Friday, the Star Island Corp. announced it had signed on with Captain's Fishing Charters of Newburyport, Mass., to provide ferry service to the island. The vessel Captain's Lady will carry visitors between Portsmouth and Star Island. The boat can accommodate 149 passengers. Visitors can also make it to the island by taking the Prince of Wales, which departs from Newburyport, Mass., or the Uncle Oscar, which departs from Rye. Tombleson said the company is working out arrangements with other boating companies to provide freight and other transportation services.

Whittaker stressed the Laighton will still make two trips a day to the Isles of Shoals and will be available for cruises and parties.

"People need to be reassured that we're not going anywhere. We're committed to the community and dedicated to the produced we deliver," she said. "We're excited about the change."