Ferries, parking, and luggage

Getting to Mackinac Island

Passenger ferries leave from Mackinaw City and St. Ignace. Choose the port that fits your drive, then compare the current Shepler's and Arnold Transit schedules, parking, and baggage service.

Mainland ferry ports

Compare Mackinaw City and St. Ignace ferry departures

Both mainland ports have passenger ferry service to Mackinac Island. Mackinaw City fits most Lower Peninsula drives; St. Ignace fits Upper Peninsula approaches. Compare the current operator schedules, parking, baggage service, and bicycle rules before choosing a dock.

  • Tap either mainland marker to compare the approach before the ferry crossing.
  • The map shows driving approaches to the mainland docks; use the ferry operators for current sailing details.
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Choose the mainland side that fits your drive

Mackinaw City is south of the Mackinac Bridge in the Lower Peninsula; St. Ignace is north of it in the Upper Peninsula. Both have passenger service, so choose by your driving direction and the operator schedule that fits your travel date.

Parking and baggage are part of the travel day

Your car remains in a mainland lot. Compare parking locations and fees, tag checked luggage clearly, and ask your lodging how bags reach the property after the ferry lands.

Ferry and island-arrival basics

  • Check both Shepler's and Arnold Transit for current routes, sailing dates, fares, bicycle rules, pet rules, and parking.
  • Use Mackinaw City when arriving from the Lower Peninsula and St. Ignace when arriving from the Upper Peninsula unless a schedule or lodging package gives you a better reason to cross the bridge.
  • Keep valuables and medicines in a carry-on even when the ferry or hotel handles larger tagged bags.
  • On the island, continue on foot, by bicycle, horse-drawn taxi, or hotel carriage. Ask the hotel about porter service before arrival.

Keep exploring

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