Ferry to Mackinac Island: Complete 2026 Travel Guide from Departure to Arrival

Plan the perfect journey to Mackinac Island with this comprehensive guide to ferry schedules, ticket prices, departure ports, and everything to know before you sail.

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Table of Contents

1. Introduction: Why the Ferry to Mackinac Island Matters

2. Overview: What to Know About Mackinac Island Ferries

3. Ferry Operators: Star Line vs Shepler’s Ferry

4. Departure Ports: Mackinaw City vs St. Ignace

5. Ferry Schedule to Mackinac Island (Spring – Fall 2026)

6. Ferry Ticket Prices and Booking Tips

7. Parking & Mackinac Bridge Tolls Explained

8. What to Expect on the Ferry Ride

9. Luggage, Bicycles, and Accessibility Information

10. What Happens When You Arrive on Mackinac Island

11. Top Things to Do After Your Ferry Ride

12. Where to Stay: Why The Inn at Stonecliffe Is a Guest Favorite

13. Frequently Asked Questions

14. Final Tips for Ferry Travel Success

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Introduction: Why the Ferry to Mackinac Island Matters {#introduction}

Mackinac Island is one of Michigan’s most iconic destinations. With no cars allowed on the island, the ferry is more than just a transportation method — it’s the beginning of your experience. Whether you’re visiting for a day trip or staying at a historic estate like The Inn at Stonecliffe, understanding the ferry process ensures a smooth journey from shore to island.

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Overview: What to Know About Mackinac Island Ferries {#overview}

The ferry ride to Mackinac Island is operated exclusively by private companies. There is no public ferry. Key things to know:

• Seasonal Operation: Ferries operate from mid-spring through late October

• Departure Points: Mackinaw City and St. Ignace

• Main Operators: Star Line and Shepler’s Ferry

• Ride Duration: Approx. 16–25 minutes depending on route

• No Vehicles: Mackinac Island is car-free. Ferries do not transport cars

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Ferry Operators: Star Line vs Shepler’s Ferry {#ferry-operators}

Two companies operate passenger ferries to Mackinac Island:

Both offer scenic routes, friendly service, and easy ticketing — you can’t go wrong with either, but guests of The Inn at Stonecliffe often comment on the scenic glass-enclosed cabins of Shepler’s or the unique open-deck experience with Star Line.

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Departure Ports: Mackinaw City vs St. Ignace {#departure-ports}

Mackinaw City (Lower Peninsula) and St. Ignace (Upper Peninsula) are the two gateway ports.

Mackinaw City Ferry Terminal

• Best for travelers coming from:

  • Detroit

  • Ann Arbor

  • Chicago

  • Southern Michigan

• Located just off I‑75 South

St. Ignace Ferry Terminal

• Ideal for those coming from:

  • Northern Michigan

  • The Upper Peninsula

  • Wisconsin

• Accessed via I‑75 North over the Mackinac Bridge

Travel Tip:

Both terminals have ample parking, but parking at St. Ignace is generally cheaper and less congested during peak travel periods.

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Ferry Schedule to Mackinac Island (Spring – Fall 2026) {#ferry-schedule}

Ferries run daily between mid-April and late October. Here’s what to expect:

Typical Daily Schedule (May – August)

• Peak Season (June – August): Departures every 30–45 minutes

• Off-Peak (Spring/Fall): Departures every 60–90 minutes

Always check real-time schedules on the ferry operator's website.

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Ferry Ticket Prices and Booking Tips {#ticket-prices}

Standard Round-Trip Pricing (2026 Estimates)

Booking Tips

• Book Online in Advance for peak summer weekends

• Bundle with Parking when available

• Group Rates available for 12+ passengers

• Look for Promo Codes during seasonal events

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Parking & Mackinac Bridge Tolls Explained {#parking-and-tolls}

Mackinac Bridge Toll (2026 Rate Estimate)

• Passenger Vehicle: $4 per axle ($8 per car)

Ferry Terminal Parking Costs

Many lots are within walking distance to ferry terminals or offer free shuttle service to the dock.

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What to Expect on the Ferry Ride {#what-to-expect}

The journey is short but scenic — here’s what you’ll experience:

Onboard Amenities

• Covered & open-air seating

• Luggage transport assistance

• Bathroom access

• Pet-friendly (leashed or caged)

Scenic Highlights

• Mackinac Bridge views

• Lake Huron panoramas

• Lighthouse & coastal sights

Bring your camera — the ride offers some of the best views of the Straits of Mackinac.

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Luggage, Bicycles, and Accessibility Information {#baggage-accessibility}

Luggage Policy

• 1 carry-on bag per person allowed

• Checked luggage must be tagged

• No oversized items without pre-approval

Bicycle Transport

• Bikes allowed (fee applies)

• Tag your bike at the terminal

• Arrive early during busy weekends

Accessibility

• ADA-accessible ramps

• Priority boarding available

• Service animals allowed

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What Happens When You Arrive on Mackinac Island {#arrival}

Once you disembark:

1. Luggage arrives on separate carts

2. Shuttle service to hotels available

3. Taxis = horse-drawn carriages

4. Walking, biking, and carriage options dominate

The docks are located in downtown Mackinac Island, within walking distance of shops, restaurants, and historic attractions.

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Top Things to Do After Your Ferry Ride {#things-to-do}

After you step off the ferry, explore the magic of Mackinac Island:

• Rent bikes and tour the 8.2-mile loop around the island

• Visit Arch Rock and Fort Mackinac

• Grab lunch at a waterfront café

• Stroll through downtown shops and sample homemade fudge

• Enjoy a horse-drawn carriage tour of the island’s highlights

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Where to Stay: Why The Inn at Stonecliffe Is a Guest Favorite {#stonecliffe}

While many visitors flock to downtown hotels, The Inn at Stonecliffe offers a private, scenic, and serene stay away from the crowds.

What Makes The Inn at Stonecliffe Special

• Nestled in the island's wooded interior, far from the bustle

• Stunning views of the Mackinac Bridge

• Elegant rooms & newly renovated suites

• A peaceful escape paired with elevated hospitality

Though the Inn is closed during winter, it reopens each spring as one of Mackinac Island’s premier resort destinations. Pairing perfectly with the ferry journey, it offers:

• Easy transport coordination from the ferry dock

• Complimentary luggage transfer

• On-island dining, activities, and curated experiences

Whether you're honeymooning, celebrating a family reunion, or just escaping for a long weekend, The Inn at Stonecliffe completes the journey you started with the ferry.

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Frequently Asked Questions {#faqs}

How long is the ferry ride to Mackinac Island?

Most ferry rides take between 16 and 25 minutes.

Do I need to book ferry tickets in advance?

Yes — especially during summer weekends and holidays.

Can I bring my car on the ferry?

No. Mackinac Island is entirely car-free.

Can I bring my dog on the ferry?

Yes, leashed or crated pets are allowed.

Which ferry is better: Star Line or Shepler’s?

Both offer quality service. Star Line has hydro-jet open-deck boats, while Shepler’s offers quieter, enclosed rides.

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Final Tips for Ferry Travel Success {#final-tips}

• Arrive 30–45 minutes early, especially if transporting bikes

• Label your luggage clearly

• Bring a light jacket — it can be cool on the open water

• Download the ferry schedule in case of weak cell service

• Book your stay at The Inn at Stonecliffe early — rooms fill quickly in peak season

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