as of october 1899, fares had been reduced on the "gatzert"'s portland-astoria run, to 50 cents, with staterooms costing $1.25, and other berths less than one dollar. on december 3, 1900, the place of "bailey gatzert" on the astoria run was taken by the steamer "hercules", while the "gatzert", having been in continuous service for almost two years, was withdrawn from service for an overhaul. fairs on "hercules" were just 25 cents for a trip to astoria. the overhaul was complete on april 12, 1901, and the "gatzert" was back on the astoria run.