Shepler's Mackinac Island Ferry Dock
Shepler's Mackinac Island Ferry: Your scenic and efficient gateway to Michigan's car-free island paradise.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat the crowds
Shepler's Mackinac Island Ferry Dock
Best Time
Beat the crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Shepler's Mackinac Island Ferry: Your scenic and efficient gateway to Michigan's car-free island paradise.
"This is the ferry service to use for a seamless trip to Mackinac Island, with excellent customer service. "
🎯 Buy Tickets Online
Save time and hassle by purchasing ferry and parking tickets in advance online. :ticket:
🚗 Parking Fees Apply
Day lot parking now has a fee, budget accordingly. Overnight parking is also available. :car:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Scenic Ferry Ride
Straits of Mackinac
Enjoy a 20-minute journey across the Straits of Mackinac, with views of the Mackinac Bridge.
Under the Bridge Departure
Mackinac City
Experience a unique early morning departure that sails directly under the iconic Mackinac Bridge.
Island Arrival Charm
Mackinac Island Dock
Step onto Mackinac Island and feel transported to a simpler time, with horse-drawn carriages and historic charm.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Ferry Tickets in Advance
Understand Parking Fees
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Buy Tickets Online
Save time and hassle by purchasing ferry and parking tickets in advance online. :ticket:
🚗 Parking Fees Apply
Day lot parking now has a fee, budget accordingly. Overnight parking is also available. :car:
🚶♂️ Shuttle Service Available
A shuttle runs from the day lot, but walking is also a short option. :walking:
🚲 Luggage & Bike Transport
Shepler's can accommodate luggage, bikes, and baby carriages. :bike:
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Buy Tickets Online
Save time and hassle by purchasing ferry and parking tickets in advance online. :ticket:
🚗 Parking Fees Apply
Day lot parking now has a fee, budget accordingly. Overnight parking is also available. :car:
🚶♂️ Shuttle Service Available
A shuttle runs from the day lot, but walking is also a short option. :walking:
🚲 Luggage & Bike Transport
Shepler's can accommodate luggage, bikes, and baby carriages. :bike:
⏱️ Punctual Departures
Ferries are known for being impeccably on time. :stopwatch:
🌬️ Winter Travel Possible
Shepler's operates year-round, offering winter ferry services. +1 :snowflake:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Shepler's Mackinac Island Ferry is highly praised for its professional staff, clean vessels, and efficient operations, making it the go-to service for many returning visitors. While the ferry experience is consistently positive, some travelers found 'enhanced' ticket options to be of little value and noted the introduction of parking fees for day lots as a recent change.
"If you're planning a trip to Michigan's Mackinac Island, THIS is the ferry service to use. They've been in business since 1945 and no one does customer service to the Island like Shepler's! Since 1966, we have used Shepler's for every yearly trip we've made to Mackinac Island. Full service, they can transport luggage, bikes, baby carriages, and tourists looking for a bit of history, a slice or two of fudge, and a lot of horsing around! Their vessels are clean, well maintained and their staff is neatly dressed, professional, and personable. You can purchase tickets right at the dock and they offer a variety of shuttle services from various motels, their big "day" lot, etc. Shepler's runs like a well-oiled machine. They have docks in Mackinac City and St. Ignace and during the prime summer season they offer their signature "under the bridge" early morning departures (highly recommend)."
Terri Grannis
"Buy ferry & parking tickets online. When it gets busy, there can be a very long line to get on the ferry anyway. They are highly organized though and everything is run efficiently. There is also a shuttle from the parking lot, but no skipping the line unless you have enhanced tickets. We walked from the parking lot which was just 3 minutes. The ferry is awesome and the ride takes about 20 minutes."
JitkaKac
"16-minute ride to Mackinac Island from Mackinaw city. Quick boat ride. I wish I had looked at the reviews. When you exit the boat and get to the street. Turn right and go about 7/10s of mile to visitors center on the right and let them give you ideas on tours. Your legs will thank you. Beautiful place."
Meleah Wheeler
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The most popular way to reach Mackinac Island from Mackinaw City is by taking Shepler's Mackinac Island Ferry. The ferry ride is approximately 16-20 minutes and offers scenic views of the Straits of Mackinac and the Mackinac Bridge.
Shepler's Mackinac Island Ferry operates from two main locations: Mackinac City and St. Ignace.
No, cars are not allowed on Mackinac Island. You will need to park your vehicle at the ferry dock in Mackinaw City or St. Ignace and take the ferry over.
Yes, Shepler's offers a shuttle service from their day parking lot to the ferry dock, though it's a short walk if you prefer.
This is a special early morning departure offered by Shepler's that sails directly under the Mackinac Bridge, providing a unique perspective. It's highly recommended.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Ticket prices can vary, but it's recommended to check the Shepler's website for current pricing. Day lot parking also has a fee, around $20 per night.
Yes, you can purchase tickets directly at the dock, but buying online in advance is recommended to avoid long lines during busy periods.
Shepler's offers various ticket options, including adult, child, and sometimes special packages. Some reviews mention 'enhanced' tickets that may not offer significant advantages.
While specific discounts aren't always advertised, booking online or traveling during the off-season might offer better value.
Shepler's operates year-round, but ferry schedules vary significantly by season. It's best to check their website for the most up-to-date schedule for your travel dates. +1
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The ferry ride is about 20 minutes and offers beautiful views of the Straits of Mackinac and the Mackinac Bridge. The vessels are clean and well-maintained.
Yes, Shepler's ferries are equipped to handle luggage, bikes, and baby carriages, making it easy to transport your belongings to the island.
Upon arrival, consider heading to the visitor center (turn right after exiting the boat and walk about 7/10ths of a mile) for tour ideas and recommendations.
Some visitors find Mackinac Island to have a spooky atmosphere, with tales of witch trials and hauntings.
Since cars are not allowed, the primary modes of transport are by bicycle (rentals available) or horse-drawn carriage. Walking is also a popular option.
📸 📸 Photography
The ferry ride itself offers fantastic photo opportunities of the Mackinac Bridge, the surrounding Great Lakes, and the island as you approach.
Popular spots include the West Bluff for stunning lake views and the Grand Hotel's expansive porch. Renting a bike allows you to explore and find unique vantage points. +1
The dock area itself provides a classic view of the ferries and the island's waterfront. The Mackinac Bridge is also visible from the mainland docks.
Yes, winter offers a unique, serene beauty for photography, with snow-covered landscapes and frozen waters.
Sunrise and sunset offer beautiful lighting. The 'under the bridge' departure is also a unique photographic opportunity.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
💰 Budget Travelers
🐶 Pet Owners
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating the Ferry Experience
Travelers often praise the efficiency and professionalism of the staff, noting clean vessels and prompt departures. When planning your trip, booking ferry tickets and parking online is highly recommended to streamline your experience, especially during the bustling summer months.
For a truly memorable experience, consider the signature 'under the bridge' early morning departure.
Mackinac Island: A Step Back in Time
The island is dotted with charming shops, historic sites, and beautiful natural landscapes. Popular attractions include the Grand Hotel, known for its expansive porch, and Fort Mackinac, offering a glimpse into the island's military past.
From the ferry dock, it's a short walk or shuttle ride to the heart of the island's attractions. Many visitors recommend heading to the visitor center upon arrival to gather maps and information about tours and activities.
Year-Round Island Life
For residents, island life continues regardless of the season. Videos showcase the daily routines of year-round inhabitants, including navigating winter conditions and maintaining the island's unique way of life.
Experiencing Mackinac Island in the off-season, particularly during the fall with its changing foliage or the quiet solitude of winter, provides a unique perspective on this Michigan gem.
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