Wendella continues to set the standard for the Passenger Vessel Industry through our commitment to providing a safe and secure environment for our guests and personnel. We meet or exceed all federal, state and local safety requirements for U.S. Coast Guard-inspected passenger vessels, their passengers and crew. Our vessels are inspected and certified annually for passenger service and our Captains are credentialed U.S. Merchant Officers, licensed by the U.S. Coast Guard. Our personnel, vessels and facilities are in full compliance with the Maritime Transportation Security Act of 2002 as required.

The U.S. Coast Guard and the Passenger Vessel Association (PVA), a national trade organization, have recognized several Wendella personnel for their actions, service and dedication to safety and security with the following:

  • USCG Public Service Commendation
  • USCG Public Service Award
  • USCG Meritorious Service Award (2-time recipient)
  • USCG Letters of Appreciation
  • USCG Captain David Dobbins Award for Excellence in Search and Rescue
  • PVA Roger Murphy National Marine Safety Award (3-time recipient)
  • PVA Outstanding Service Award

Wendella’s President was one of the founders of the Chicago Harbor Safety committee serving as its first President. He also served as PVA President and chairman of the PVA Safety & Security Committee as well as serving as Co-chair of the Sector Lake Michigan Southern Tip of Lake Michigan Area Maritime Security Committee. Other management personnel serve in leadership roles as Chairman of the PVA Great Lakes Region, Safety & Security and Legislative Committees and as a board member of the Chicago Harbor Safety Committee.