Tourists heading to Mackinac Island, one of the most popular tourism travels destination, will see slightly higher prices for some ferry tickets and add-ons as the summer season gets underway.
Departing from both St. Ignace and Mackinac City, the Arnold Transit Co. ferry and the Shepler’s Mackinac Island Ferry, owned by the Hoffmann Family of Companies, have raised prices by $2 to $5 for some tickets and services, according to online prices.
In addition to increasing prices, the ferry services also have expanded travel options with more times, both for departing to the island and back to the mainland.
Here’s everything to know about the ferries that cross into Mackinac Island:
Arnold Transit Company
The Arnold Transit Co., founded by in 1878 by George T. Arnold, originally transported passengers and goods on coal-fired steamboats to Michigan ports and islands, its website says.
Arnold now provides ferry services to St. Ignace, Mackinaw City and Mackinac Island, with a fleet of ferries to offer a “traditional” ride while the “classic” ride will feature a slightly longer trip time.
“This season, expect smooth sailings, unforgettable views, and a renewed commitment to excellence. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a longtime fan of Arnold, we can’t wait to welcome you aboard,” its website said.
How much do Arnold ferry tickets cost in 2025?
As of June 10, ferries from both Mackinaw City and St. Ignace run to the island hourly until 8:30 p.m. The final from the island to the mainland to each site is 9 p.m.
Ferry tickets are available on the company website.
Tickets for the Arnold Transit Company are:
There is a $3 fee applied to online purchases.
Fees for additional items transported by Arnold ferries include:
Private Luggage Cart
Where are the Arnold Transit docks?
You can find the Arnold ferries at:
Shepler’s Mackinac Island Ferry
Shepler’s Mackinac Island Ferry, known for its lighthouse, Fourth of July and night sky cruises, offers departures from both Mackinaw City and St. Ignace.
Now that peak season has hit, Shepler’s will start its annual fast turnaround, 15-minute departure schedule. The full schedule is available on the company website. Shepler’s service to the island was hourly through May 22.
The last ferry to Mackinac Island, from Mackinaw City and St. Ignace, is 9:30 p.m. The last ferry to the mainland departs at 10 p.m.
How much are Shepler’s tickets in 2025?
For an adult round trip, tickets are $38, children up to 12 are $26. Credit card transactions are subject to a 3% fee. Both prices have increased $2.
“Enhanced” ticket options, with preferred boarding and other perks, cost $50 total for adults and $38 for children — up $2.
Other fees include:
Where are the Shepler’s docks?
You can find the Shepler’s Ferry docks at:
This article originally appeared on Detroit Free Press: Heading to Mackinac Island? Mackinaw City, St. Ignace ferry prices, times, docks
Reporting by Jalen Williams, Detroit Free Press / Detroit Free Press
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