FAQs On Ferry Service, mackPASS, & Mackinac Island, MI
How long does it take to reach the island by ferry? How early should you arrive at the dock? Any trip poses questions, and mackPASS has the answers so that you can kick back, enjoy the ride, and drink up the scenery.
Here are the top answers to your most frequently asked questions about mackPASS & Mackinac Island.
Once the ferry departs, you’re only 15-18 minutes from Mackinac Island. The ferry ride is a delight in its own right, so sit back, relax, and enjoy the ride!
As with any mode of transportation, you’ll want to arrive at least 30 minutes early for the best results.
Mackinac Island Ferry Company offers a variety of parking solutions while you’re on the island. You can choose between valet, premium dockside, handicap, oversized vehicle, and free day parking.
mackPASS is only available online, and purchasing your mackPASS ahead of time allows you to enjoy the experience that much more.
All sales are final, but your mackPASS is good for the rest of the season! If something happens and you can’t make it today, don’t worry! Come back and see us soon.
No. The mackPASS is only available online. While you could go from site to site, buying your tickets at each attraction, mackPASS spares you that time and the extra expense at the ticket window.
At present, we offer Hydro-Jet ferry rides, carriage rides, fort attractions (Fort Mackinac, Michilimackinac), The Grand Hotel Lunch Buffet, Jack Pine Lumberjack Show, and the Original Mackinac Island Butterfly House & Insect World. We’re always looking for new island partners to join our mackPASS family!
Absolutely! Mackinac Island is exceptionally bike-friendly! All you’ll need to do is purchase a bikePASS which doubles as your bike’s ferry ticket and your license to ride on the island.
Without doubt! As an island with no cars allowed, bikes are one of the best ways to enjoy the island.
Absolutely not. Please, feel free to bring your strollers along with you for ease, enjoyment, and practicality.
Mackinac Island Ferry Company schedule is online here. Feel free to browse for a departure time that fits your needs.
Of course! Mackinac Island Ferry Company also offers bridge tours. Witness the Mackinac Bridge from underneath on the way to Mackinac Island, adding just an extra 5-10 minutes to the adventure and a perfect photo opportunity.
Yes, you can ride a classic ferry, a Hydro-Jet, or a Catamaran.
You bet! Mackinac Island Ferry Company offers a “classic departure” option which includes a more cruise-like approach to the island lasting somewhere around 45 minutes. With the classic departure, you can revel in the calming waters of Lake Huron on your way to adventure!
Regular parking for a single day is completely complimentary! We offer free day parking in both St. Ignace and Mackinaw City.
Absolutely. The Mackinac Island Ferry Company has several different options when it comes to parking. To learn more about parking at the dock, check out the parking options here.
Yes! Oversized vehicles are welcome in our designated lots.
Mackinac Island Ferry Company offers a complimentary shuttle service from all parking lots, hotels, and campgrounds to their docks in both Mackinaw City and St. Ignace. You can call 800-638-9892 when you’re ready for a ride and we’ll send one your way!
Of course! All Mackinac Island Ferries are wheelchair accessible and Mackinac Island Ferry Company staff is always happy to help.
Yes! In both St. Ignace and Mackinaw City, Star Line has designated, on-site handicap parking available.
Absolutely! If you don’t need or have a wheelchair on the ferry ride over, you can rent one at just about any place where you could also rent a bike.
If it is medically necessary, electric wheelchairs are welcome both on Mackinac Island Ferries and on the island.
The Mackinaw City shuttle is accessible for individuals in wheelchairs or with other accessibility needs.