FerryConnect

USA (Michigan)

Mackinaw City → Mackinac Island

The main ferry to car-free Mackinac Island, where horses, bicycles and walking are the only ways to get around. Some “Mighty Mac” departures detour under the Mackinac Bridge on the way.

⏱ 16m – 26m🚢 1 operator📅 Daily, 21 April – 31 October 2026; several departures an hour in peak summer🐕 Pet friendly
Book with Shepler’s Mackinac Island Ferry→

Mackinaw City to Mackinac Island ferry at a glance

The ferry from Mackinaw City to Mackinac Island takes 16m – 26m across the Straits of Mackinac (Lake Huron), operated by Shepler’s Mackinac Island Ferry. It is a foot-passenger service; vehicles are not carried. Typical frequency: daily, 21 April – 31 October 2026; several departures an hour in peak summer.

Crossing times and frequencies are typical figures and vary by season. Confirm the current timetable with the operator or booking partner before you travel. Route facts last reviewed 2026-09-29.

Sources: sheplersferry.com · wordpress-assets-clients3.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com · sheplersferry.com · sheplersferry.com · How we verify

Return crossing: Mackinac Island to Mackinaw City

Shepler’s Mackinac Island Ferry also sails Mackinac Island to Mackinaw City, taking 16m – 26m. Return tickets can be used back to either Mackinaw City or St. Ignace.

Mackinaw City to Mackinac Island ferry timetable & sailing pattern

Seasonal service: the season ended on 31 October 2026, expected back in April (check with Shepler’s Mackinac Island Ferry). The times below are from the last season. Shepler’s 2026 season ran 21 April – 31 October.

Daily from 21 April to 31 October 2026; at least 4 departures a day at the start and end of the season and up to about 20 in peak summer

Peak timetable 22 May – 7 September; Mighty Mac (under-the-bridge) departures run on selected dates.

Return: Return tickets can be used back to either Mackinaw City or St. Ignace.

Timetables change by season and date. Check exact departures for your travel date on the official timetable.

Official Shepler’s Mackinac Island Ferry timetable →Check prices & book on Shepler’s Mackinac Island Ferry →

Source: Shepler’s 2026 ferry schedule. Verified 2026-09-29.

Maritime Crossing Route Map

Interactive sea passage between Mackinaw City and Mackinac Island

📐 6 Nautical Miles
Mackinaw City⇄Mackinac Island
⏱ 16m – 26m · 📐 6 nm
© OpenFreeMap / OSM
⚓ Operator website

Ready to cross from Mackinaw City to Mackinac Island?

Book your crossing with Shepler’s Mackinac Island Ferry: live fares, availability and sailing times.

Book with Shepler’s Mackinac Island Ferry→

Operators on This Route

OperatorCrossing TimeVessels
Shepler’s Mackinac Island Ferry16m direct; about 26m via the Mackinac BridgePassenger ferries

Route Features

🚗

Vehicles

Foot passengers only

🚶

Foot Passengers

Walk-on passengers welcome

🐕

Pets

Pets allowed with valid documents

📐

Distance

6 nautical miles

Getting There & Onward Transport

  • Shepler’s main Mackinaw City dock is at 556 E. Central Avenue; overnight parking is at 199 Wendell Street with a shuttle to the dock
  • A free shuttle runs between the dock, Shepler’s lots and lodging within 1.5 miles in Mackinaw City

Tips for the Mackinaw City to Mackinac Island Crossing

  • Leashed or caged pets travel free on ferry departures
  • Tickets are valid on any departure from Mackinaw City or St. Ignace during the season

Related Ferry Crossings

Onward from Mackinac IslandSt. Ignace → Mackinac Island16m – 26m · Shepler’s Mackinac Island FerryNearby alternative crossingTobermory (Ontario) → South Baymouth (Manitoulin Island)1h 45m – 2h · Owen Sound Transportation CompanyMore ferries in United StatesSeattle → Bainbridge Island35m · Washington State FerriesMore ferries in United StatesLudington → Manitowoc4h 00m · Lake Michigan Carferry (SS Badger)More ferries in United StatesSeattle → Victoria (BC)2h 45m · FRS ClipperMore ferries in United StatesPort Angeles → Victoria (BC)1h 30m · Black Ball Ferry Line
⛴ All ferries from Mackinac Island🗺 All ferries in United States🔎 Search all routes

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the ferry from Mackinaw City to Mackinac Island?
The crossing typically takes 16m – 26m. Actual times vary by vessel, season and sea conditions, so check the timetable for your sailing.
How often does the Mackinaw City to Mackinac Island ferry sail?
Seasonal service: the season ended on 31 October 2026, expected back in April (check with Shepler’s Mackinac Island Ferry). The times below are from the last season. Daily from 21 April to 31 October 2026; at least 4 departures a day at the start and end of the season and up to about 20 in peak summer. Peak timetable 22 May – 7 September; Mighty Mac (under-the-bridge) departures run on selected dates. This is the pattern published in the Shepler’s 2026 ferry schedule (checked 2026-09-29); confirm exact departure times on the official timetable before you travel.
Which ferry companies sail from Mackinaw City to Mackinac Island?
Shepler’s Mackinac Island Ferry operates this route. Compare sailing times and ticket types before booking, as they often differ between operators.
Can I take my car on the Mackinaw City to Mackinac Island ferry?
No. This is a foot-passenger service and vehicles are not carried. Use parking near the departure pier or public transport to reach it.
Can I take the Mackinaw City to Mackinac Island ferry as a foot passenger?
Yes. Foot passengers can travel on this route. Allow time to reach the passenger terminal and check the operator’s check-in closing time.
Are dogs and pets allowed on the Mackinaw City to Mackinac Island ferry?
Pets are accepted on this route, subject to the operator’s rules (for example staying in the vehicle, kennels or pet-friendly cabins). International crossings also require the correct pet travel documents.
How far is Mackinaw City from Mackinac Island by ferry?
The sea crossing is about 6 nautical miles (roughly 11 km).