DEXTER TOWNSHIP — Recreational boaters in Dexter Township and other areas are adjusting their summer plans due to rising fuel prices in June 2026. These adjustments include shortening trips, avoiding full refueling, and canceling long-distance travel.
U.S. regular gasoline prices averaged 34% higher in early June 2026 compared to June 2025, according to motor club AAA. Diesel fuel prices were 53% higher than a year earlier. Ethanol-free gasoline costs between 20 cents and $1 more per gallon than regular gasoline.
Malik Amine decided against filling his family pontoon boat's 52-gallon fuel tank before Memorial Day weekend. "The cost is going to be a lot more than it was last year. I think it's probably a little bit smarter to do what you need and fill it as much as you need, because who knows when this conflict's going to end." Amine said. A gas station near Portage Lake in Michigan sold ethanol-free fuel for $7 per gallon.
Neil and Kathleen Donohoe, who live aboard a 50-foot, diesel-powered boat named Granuaile, plan to remain in the Chesapeake Bay area this summer instead of traveling further north. The Granuaile has a fuel capacity of 1,500 gallons.
Robert Hinds, owner of Central Coast Angling in Traverse City, Michigan, implemented a $50 fuel surcharge on his fishing charter services. He tows a 22-foot fishing boat on Lake Michigan. Hinds canceled a planned fishing trip to Wisconsin because the diesel fuel for his tow vehicle would have cost $400. "It's really tough. People do want to get out and I still believe people will." Hinds said. He added, "Everybody comes from different walks of life."
Melissa Kunnert owns NautiMi On the River, an ice cream and gift shop near Portage Lake that offers pontoon boat rentals and evening cruises. Kunnert decided not to raise her business prices this summer despite increased fuel costs. "I'm interested to see if we'll have the same amount as previous years or if we will have more because people don't want to use their gas, they want ours." Kunnert said.
Diesel fuel at the Seattle Sailing Club's marina increased from $6.50 per gallon in April to $7.99 per gallon by late May. The club operates 30 boats that primarily use wind power and have gas or diesel backup engines.