Mackinac Island, one of the most popular tourism travels destination, is open for the 2025 summer season, and the ferry services carrying people to the island are expanding travel options for summer as well.
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, allow tourists to get back and forth from the island.
“Between Michigan’s Upper and Lower Peninsulas, you’ll find Mackinac Island, where you’ll ride on horse-drawn carriages along car-free roads, observe fudge being made (and then sample it), and tour the historic Fort Mackinac,” USA TODAY’s 2024 10Best Readers’ Choice Awards said of the island.
With the summer season underway, the ferry services have been expanding travel options. 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?
Until May 29, ferries from both Mackinaw City and St. Ignace run to the island hourly until 8 p.m. The final from the island to the mainland to each site is 8:30 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:
Where are the Arnold Transit docks?
You can find the Arnold ferries at:
Mackinaw City dock: 801 S. Huron St.
St. Ignace main dock: 587 N. State St.
St. Ignace “classic” dock: 99 N. State S.
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.
Once peak season hits 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 is hourly through May 22.
The last ferry to Mackinac Island, from Mackinaw City and St. Ignace, is 7:30 p.m. The last ferry to the mainland departs at 8 p.m.
How much are Shepler’s tickets in 2025?
For an adult round trip, tickets are $36, children up to 12 are $24. Credit card transactions are subject to a 3% fee.
“Enhanced” ticket options, with preferred boarding and other perks, cost an additional $12.
Other fees include:
Where are the Shepler’s docks?
You can find the Shepler’s Ferry docks at:
Mackinaw City: 556 E. Central Ave.
St. Ignace: 601 N. State St.
This article originally appeared on Detroit Free Press: Mackinac Island’s visitor season is here. What to know about ferry service
Reporting by Jalen Williams, Detroit Free Press / Detroit Free Press
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