
Shepler's Ferry St. Ignace Dock
Your gateway to Mackinac Island, offering scenic ferry rides with convenient shuttles and a pet-friendly atmosphere.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Scenic bridge views

Shepler's Ferry St. Ignace Dock
Best Time
Scenic bridge views

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Your gateway to Mackinac Island, offering scenic ferry rides with convenient shuttles and a pet-friendly atmosphere.
"Hands down best Ferry service to the island, took bags right when we pulled in the lot."

🚗 Shuttle Savings
Ask your hotel to contact Shepler's shuttle for pickup to save on parking fees! 🚌
🎟️ Book Ahead
Purchase tickets online in advance for a smoother boarding process and to guarantee your spot. 🎟️

Quick Facts
Rating
4.7 · 2,194 reviews
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Scenic Bridge Detour
Under the Mackinac Bridge
Experience breathtaking views of the Mighty Mac Bridge from a unique perspective on select morning departures.

Pet-Friendly Ferry Ride
Onboard Shepler's Ferry
Bring your furry friends along for the journey! Shepler's Ferry welcomes pets, making it a stress-free trip for the whole family.

Convenient Shuttle Service
St. Ignace hotels and accommodations
Enjoy hassle-free transport to the ferry dock with Shepler's complimentary shuttle service, connecting you from your hotel.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Tickets in Advance
Utilize Shuttle Services
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Shuttle Savings
Ask your hotel to contact Shepler's shuttle for pickup to save on parking fees! 🚌
🎟️ Book Ahead
Purchase tickets online in advance for a smoother boarding process and to guarantee your spot. 🎟️
🐶 Pet-Friendly Travel
Your furry companions are welcome aboard! Enjoy a scenic ride with your pets. 🐕
⏰ Punctuality is Key
Ferries depart on time; aim to be at the dock with ample time to spare. :stopwatch:
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Shuttle Savings
Ask your hotel to contact Shepler's shuttle for pickup to save on parking fees! 🚌
🎟️ Book Ahead
Purchase tickets online in advance for a smoother boarding process and to guarantee your spot. 🎟️
🐶 Pet-Friendly Travel
Your furry companions are welcome aboard! Enjoy a scenic ride with your pets. 🐕
⏰ Punctuality is Key
Ferries depart on time; aim to be at the dock with ample time to spare. :stopwatch:
🧳 Luggage Assistance
Staff can assist with your luggage, taking it directly to your island hotel. 🧳
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Shepler's Ferry is highly praised for its excellent service, friendly and professional staff, and convenient shuttle system that connects to local accommodations. Passengers appreciate the smooth rides, pet-friendly policy, and the option for scenic bridge detours. While punctual departures are a hallmark, travelers are advised to arrive on time to avoid missing their ferry.
"Great Service. Love how they provide shuttle service to almost every hotel/ stay in the area. I would highly recommend asking your hotel if they can contact shepler’s shuttle service to pick you up so that you can save $15 of parking fee. The shuttle services are every 5 minutes and ferry service every 30 minutes. Tickets are 38 per person for adults. You can buy the tickets on site. They also offer a scenic detour under the mackinac bridge at few timings in the morning. Check it out on their website."
humsika uppala
"We took the first ferry of the day! It was cool and the birds were singing! The grounds are absolutely beautiful! The staff are friendly too! We purchased our tickets in advance and were able to get right in line! Very smooth process and we head from St.Ignace to Mackinac Island!"
Connie Korbelic
"Hands down best Ferry service to the island,took bags right when we pulled in the lot.Asked where were staying on the island checked bags told enjoy your ferry ride we will take it from here. Got bags to the Hotel.Off site parking was a breeze picked me up dropped off right at the boat same when returned back."
Bryan Ross
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Shepler's Ferry is located in St. Ignace, Michigan. Many hotels in the area offer shuttle services to the dock, which can save you parking fees. If driving, follow signs for Mackinac Island ferries. The dock is easily accessible from local roads.
Yes, parking is available at the Shepler's Ferry dock in St. Ignace. Inquire about shuttle services from your hotel to potentially avoid parking fees.
Absolutely! Shepler's offers shuttle services to many hotels and accommodations in the St. Ignace area. It's recommended to ask your hotel if they can arrange a pickup for you.
The most popular and convenient way to travel to Mackinac Island from St. Ignace is by taking Shepler's Ferry. They offer frequent departures and various amenities.
While Shepler's Ferry is a primary provider, Starline is another ferry service operating from St. Ignace. Some travelers have noted price differences between the two.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Tickets for Shepler's Ferry are approximately $38 per adult for a round trip. Prices can vary, so it's best to check their official website for the most current rates.
You can purchase tickets directly at the Shepler's Ferry ticket counter at the St. Ignace dock. For convenience, especially during busy times, buying tickets online in advance is also recommended.
While not strictly required, buying tickets in advance is highly recommended to ensure a smooth boarding process and to secure your desired departure time, especially during peak travel seasons.
Information on specific discounts is best found on the Shepler's Ferry website. Travelers often look for deals or package options when planning their trip.
Shepler's Ferry operates frequently, with departures typically every 30 minutes. It's advisable to check their official website for the most up-to-date schedule, as it can vary seasonally.
🎫 🚢 Onboard Experience
Generally, the ferry ride is smooth. Some travelers have experienced wind-whipped fun on the upper deck during return trips. If you are prone to seasickness, consider remedies as you would for any boat trip.
Yes, Shepler's Ferry is pet-friendly! You can bring your dog or other pets along for the ride to Mackinac Island.
Shepler's Ferry offers a scenic detour under the Mackinac Bridge on select morning departures, providing unique views of this iconic structure.
Shepler's Ferry typically offers both indoor seating and open-air upper decks, allowing you to choose your preferred experience. The upper deck can be windy but offers great views.
The ferry ride from St. Ignace to Mackinac Island is relatively short, usually around 15-20 minutes, offering a quick and efficient journey.
📸 📸 Photography
The most iconic photo opportunity is the scenic detour under the Mackinac Bridge. Also, capture the views of the water, the approaching island, and the ferry itself. The upper deck offers panoramic shots.
Morning departures often provide softer light and potentially fewer crowds, especially if you opt for the scenic bridge detour. The return trip in the late afternoon can also offer beautiful golden hour light.
Yes, the scenic detour under the Mackinac Bridge offers fantastic opportunities to photograph this impressive structure from a unique vantage point.
For general shots, a good all-around setting is often sufficient. If shooting the bridge, consider a wider lens. For action shots on the upper deck, a faster shutter speed can help freeze motion.
Generally, there are no specific restrictions on personal photography on Shepler's Ferry. However, always be mindful of other passengers and avoid intrusive photography.









Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit