FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
GENERAL
Because there are no motorized vehicles on the island, the only way to get to Mackinac Island is by boat or by plane. Enjoy a fun, and friendly ride to the island on one of Arnold Transit Company’s ferries!
Classic Ferries (historic vessels) take approximately 30-40 minutes, offering a more relaxed and scenic journey.
Traditional Ferries (modern vessels) complete the trip in 20-25 minutes for a quicker arrival.
Reservations are not necessary for our ferries as they run on a first come first serve basis. Because of this, we suggest you plan on arriving approximately 45 minutes before your planned departure time.
We recommend you arrive at the dock 45 minutes before the boat you wish you take is scheduled to depart.
Yes! Arnold Transit Company offers a variety of parking options to fit your specific needs including valet, premium dockside, handicap, overnight and day parking. For more details on all parking options, visit our parking page.
TICKETS
No advance purchase is necessary; tickets are available for purchase on all docks, But we do recommend purchasing online.
Once you make your purchase, all sales are final. There are no refunds, however tickets are valid for use all season long!
Nope – if you purchased ferry tickets online, you are all set to skip the ticket booth and hop right in our boarding line! Just make sure you have the barcode pulled up and ready to scan during the boarding process.
If you have purchased bike passes online, you will need to stop by the ticket window to have those printed out before you get onboard.
Yes, Arnold Transit Company is pet friendly! You may bring your dog(s) on the ferry as long as it is on a leash and well behaved.
Most businesses on Mackinac Island do not allow dogs into their establishments unless they are seeing eye dogs, however a few restaurants allow pets in their outdoor seating areas. By city ordinance, you must have your dog on a leash and under control at all times as well as clean up after them while on the island.
BIKES & OTHER EXTRA ITEMS
Absolutely – bikes can ride with you on the ferry, just purchase a bikePASS at the ticket booth and attach it to your handlebars. This will double as your bike’s pass to get on the ferry and your bike’s license on Mackinac Island.
Yes! Mackinac Island has several bike rental shops offering a variety of options, including single-speed cruisers, tandem bikes and child carriers. Whether you’re looking for a short ride or a full-day adventure, you’ll find plenty of choices to suit your needs.
There is not an additional fee for strollers and they are welcome onboard Arnold Transit Company ferries at no additional charge.
SCHEDULE
PARKING
Yes, there is a charge for day parking. Several parking options are availableFor detailed information on locations and pricing please visit our parking information page.
Yes, we offer overnight parking. For detailed information on locations and pricing please visit our parking information page.
Yes! Oversized vehicles are also welcome to park in our designated lots. If you have a motor home or vehicle with attached trailer, please call 800-638-9892 a few days in advance and we will have an offsite parking space waiting for you upon arrival.
For more details and a full list of parking options, please visit our parking page.
We offer complimentary shuttle service from all our parking lots.
ACCESSIBILITY
Yes! Arnold Transit Company ferries are wheelchair accessible. Our hard-working crew will assist you or your loved one on the ramp to ensure your safety in both the boarding and unloading process.
Yes! We have designated, on-site handicap parking available for your convenience and safety.
Yes, if it is medically necessary, electric wheelchairs are welcome both on our ferry and on the island.
In Mackinaw City, yes.