Star Line Mackinac Island Ferry
Star Line Mackinac Island Ferry
Star Line Mackinac Island Ferry
4.5
7:30 AM - 9:00 PM
Monday
7:30 AM - 9:00 PM
Tuesday
7:30 AM - 9:00 PM
Wednesday
7:30 AM - 9:00 PM
Thursday
7:30 AM - 9:00 PM
Friday
7:30 AM - 10:30 PM
Saturday
7:30 AM - 10:30 PM
Sunday
7:30 AM - 9:00 PM
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Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.
Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as wait time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.
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4.5
1,709 reviews
Excellent
1,118
Very good
331
Average
96
Poor
58
Terrible
106
Aaron H
Three Oaks, MI29 contributions
Jul 2020 • Family
May be the fastest trip to Mackinac Island, but employees could be friendlier. They had no visible disinfecting procedures between trips, like Shepler’s does, and does not provide hand sanitizer. Also, don’t count on the 6pm pirate ship bridge tour ever leaving the dock. First, it only leaves from MACKINAC ISLAND, so you have to buy a round trip ferry ticket just to get on the cruise, plus the cost of the cruise. Then, the ship is all exposed to the weather and very top heavy, so with the slightest wind or weather (which is very common in the Straits of Mackinac), they will cancel the cruise. We tried four different nights and it was cancelled each time. Trying to get refunds for our tickets was a nightmare, that nobody could figure out or process correctly. We were left with the only option to dispute the charge with our credit card company.
Written July 20, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
RedGirl502
Livonia, MI6 contributions
Jul 2021
I bought tickets with another company for a sunset cruise on Saturday July 10th that leaves from and returns to Mackinac Island, after making sure *multiple times* that the 10:30 pm Star Line ferry would bring us back to the mainland after the cruise. Even that morning, I'd called and Star Line said it would be running. 10:30 pm is the last ferry leaving Mackinac Island for the day in the summer, from both ferry companies.
When we got to the dock in the afternoon, Star Line said their 10:30 pm ferry for the day was canceled. So, we couldn't go on our sunset cruise (or we'd have been stuck on Mackinac Island overnight) -- so we got screwed out of our cruise, the money was nonrefundable, and we won't be back to Mackinac until next summer.
When we got to the Mackinac Island dock at 7:30 pm to go back to the mainland, we were told the 8:30 ferry was not running... and that we could wait for the 9:30 pm ferry. So we sat at the dock for two hours, because we were afraid of not being able to board the last ferry back. In that time, a "Pirate Ship" ferry showed up at 8:30, but was standing room only (we have a disabled person in our party, so we needed at least one seat), so we couldn't get on that one anyway.
I wanted to let others know that Star Line ferry is not reliable. Their customer service is nonexistant, their ticket sellers are rude and did not care or apologize that our cruise tickets and plans were going to be screwed up.
Star Line ferry has also removed my complaint post from their Facebook page.
When we got to the dock in the afternoon, Star Line said their 10:30 pm ferry for the day was canceled. So, we couldn't go on our sunset cruise (or we'd have been stuck on Mackinac Island overnight) -- so we got screwed out of our cruise, the money was nonrefundable, and we won't be back to Mackinac until next summer.
When we got to the Mackinac Island dock at 7:30 pm to go back to the mainland, we were told the 8:30 ferry was not running... and that we could wait for the 9:30 pm ferry. So we sat at the dock for two hours, because we were afraid of not being able to board the last ferry back. In that time, a "Pirate Ship" ferry showed up at 8:30, but was standing room only (we have a disabled person in our party, so we needed at least one seat), so we couldn't get on that one anyway.
I wanted to let others know that Star Line ferry is not reliable. Their customer service is nonexistant, their ticket sellers are rude and did not care or apologize that our cruise tickets and plans were going to be screwed up.
Star Line ferry has also removed my complaint post from their Facebook page.
Written July 15, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Michele P
4 contributions
Jul 2020
My husband and I took the boat from St. Ignace to Mackinac Island to stay for a few days (July 7-9th, 2020) . When we got on the boat we were shocked that they wanted to fill all the seats on the top deck! We did the responsible thing and went for the area below even though it was all enclosed and possibly not safe either. There were so many people that you could not safely distance. They made an announcement that masks were required but did not enforce it so there were about 7-10 people who took them off all together..nobody said a word to them.
I can see why people get into confrontations about this because the un- masked people were sitting in close proximity to older folks and children who were in compliance with the mask wearing. One of my observations was seeing an older gentleman sitting next to his wife...both were wearing masks and here comes a pack of young people with their parents sitting right by them without masks. The older gentleman had a "Vietnam Veteran" hat on..I thought "What a picture this is"..a man who gave everything and laid his life on the line and they can't even wear a mask to protect him. So so sad.
The people who work on these boats need to make multiple announcement and make an attempt to enforce this..otherwise you may have people fighting about it.
I can see why people get into confrontations about this because the un- masked people were sitting in close proximity to older folks and children who were in compliance with the mask wearing. One of my observations was seeing an older gentleman sitting next to his wife...both were wearing masks and here comes a pack of young people with their parents sitting right by them without masks. The older gentleman had a "Vietnam Veteran" hat on..I thought "What a picture this is"..a man who gave everything and laid his life on the line and they can't even wear a mask to protect him. So so sad.
The people who work on these boats need to make multiple announcement and make an attempt to enforce this..otherwise you may have people fighting about it.
Written July 16, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Elizebeth2123
2 contributions
Jun 2020 • Family
Went to the island via Star Line on June 20th, plenty of room and no issues. Attempt to ride back to the mainland gave me a panic attack and my family had to get off the ferry. There was a ferry that was having issues and offloaded a large group to wait for a new ferry to come, that was fine. But, the new ferry got there and they loaded on the passengers that were offloaded from the ferry having issues and then proceeded to add more passengers that were waiting in line, including my family of 5 which they counted my husband as number 236.....the ferry was quite full at that time but they kept adding more passengers on. I asked my husband if we could get off after I saw someone at least 50 people behind us in line get on and we did get off after a crew member told everyone to squeeze in to make more room, I had a panic attack with how many were on the boat (especially with COVID-19 and us supposed to be practicing social distancing) When we got off they wouldn’t give our tickets back but did get us with a few other families onto the pirate ship that was also headed back to Mackinaw City. While waiting to figure out how they were getting us back employees couldn’t figure out why people were “freaking out”. Glad they got us back, my son was excited to ride the pirate ship and it had much more room to offer a safer feeling, can’t believe they were packing people in like sardines.
Written June 21, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
GrandTour249684
30 contributions
Oct 2020 • Couples
Have always taken the Star Line when going from Mackinaw City to the Island. Fast service with plenty of departure times.
This year we were disappointed with the COVID compliance. The boat wasn’t clean, didn’t smell clean, and crew and passengers were not always wearing masks.
Also $15 to park after spending $100+ on several round trip tickets is a rip-off.
This year we were disappointed with the COVID compliance. The boat wasn’t clean, didn’t smell clean, and crew and passengers were not always wearing masks.
Also $15 to park after spending $100+ on several round trip tickets is a rip-off.
Written October 1, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Anita G
Richfield, OH2 contributions
Jul 2020
I am not a person prone to anxiety and I honestly have to say that I was terrified on the ride to Mackinac Island. The line for tickets was long and very few people were observing social distance guidelines. But the terrifying part was being on the bottom floor of the ferry where the windows are sealed shut with poor circulation, possibly half of the passengers wearing masks and people jammed into seats like sardines. Passengers were initially trying to space themselves appropriately, but then employees came by and SHOUTED at people to move over to make room for additional passengers to sit down. There were no obvious efforts to protect passengers on the ferry. I would absolutely not risk the ride again.
Written July 12, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Erin R
Ann Arbor, Michigan, United States6 contributions
May 2021
The porters in Mackinac City did an excellent job of getting us and our extensive luggage on the boat when we arrived ~ 15 minutes before departure.
Boat ride there and back was very smooth, due in now small part to excellent crew as well as calm waters.
Staff on our return trip was also very friendly and helpful. No complaints.
My only issues with Star Line is since taking over from Arnold the ticket prices and parking costs have increased significantly. If you don't arrive with an extra 30-45 minutes to park further away and take a shuttle back you are paying a lot to park your car.
Also, the restrooms in Mackinac City are way overdue for repair or, better, a full remodel. Many of the stalls in the women's room do not lock, the counter is always wet and dirty looking (and still Arnold green) and the hand dryer was broken.
Boat ride there and back was very smooth, due in now small part to excellent crew as well as calm waters.
Staff on our return trip was also very friendly and helpful. No complaints.
My only issues with Star Line is since taking over from Arnold the ticket prices and parking costs have increased significantly. If you don't arrive with an extra 30-45 minutes to park further away and take a shuttle back you are paying a lot to park your car.
Also, the restrooms in Mackinac City are way overdue for repair or, better, a full remodel. Many of the stalls in the women's room do not lock, the counter is always wet and dirty looking (and still Arnold green) and the hand dryer was broken.
Written May 21, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Hello! Thank you for taking the time to review us. We are so happy to hear our staff was friendly and got you on the boat safely! I will most certainly take your concerns to our leadership team. Star Line does offer the most wide range of parking options including FREE parking up to 5 nights. We also encourage all over night guests to arrive at least 30 minutes prior to departure time if there is a specific time you are looking at catching the ferry otherwise, our ferries run often and you can catch the next departure. We hope to see you again soon! Have a wonderful day!
Written May 24, 2021
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Michael W
Saginaw, MI2 contributions
Jul 2021 • Family
Bought tickets at dock 1 for 11am at 10:40 am ferry, 11:45 boat shows up. Loads partially then leaves for dock 3 to finish loading. 1hr an half after buying tickets we finally get to the island. Leave the island and arrive at dock 1, day workers let off then we're told it'll be faster to be shuttled from dock 3. Ridiculously run service, no communication, boat crew lies and makes idiotic excuses. Save yourself thw hassle and use Sheplers
Written July 16, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank you for taking the time to provide this feedback, and we’re very sorry your experience wasn’t what it should have been. Our leadership team was alerted to your concerns, particularly those related to communication, and has been addressing those issues – thank you for helping us to get better. Regardless, we hope you enjoyed your time on the island and hope you will give us the chance to earn your business again sometime in the future.
Written July 30, 2021
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Jake S
Alexandria, VA227 contributions
Jun 2022
We chose the Mackinaw City terminal for the Star Line ferry because we would be going southbound after a visit to Mackinac Id. There are spots for short-time parking while dropping off your bags with the valet to load on the ferry You CANNOT take your luggage with you on the ferry. When you drop it off, know what hotel/inn/B&B you are going to stay at so that they can tag it for delivery to your lodging on the island. Otherwise, you will collect it after you debark on the island. Parking is across Huron Ave. There are shuttle buses to bring you back to the ferry after your park your car. One of the lots is secured at night. When going to the island arrive well in advance of your ferry in the morning because day trippers are so many that you might have to wait for a ferry. If you're staying overnight, take an afternoon ferry that is less crowded. If you are leaving the island, day trippers crowd all of the afternoon ferries so leave in the morning. Most of the ferries are new now and need only 20 minutes to make the trip. One of them, however, is old and can take 40 minutes. It's cool/cold when you are on the water so either sit inside or have a sweater/jacket.
Written July 4, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
stellerette
columbus272 contributions
Jun 2021
We purchased the 3 day pass on-line which was super easy. The staff that helped load bikes and the ferry could not have been nicer. We took our bikes over on one of the days. They need to fix a few small things to make it easier for people.
1) Can you put a sign for the line for people who already purchased tickets so that people don't end up standing in the wrong line?
2) In regards to taking bikes over, please find a way so that people do not have to wait in line if they chose to purchase bike passes on line. This is ridiculous to have to wait in line to get the pass. Do you really need to have the tag on it? If you can scan my ticket for me to enter the ferry, why not allow for there to be a scan for the bike? Or perhaps people can print them out and attach to the bike? We did this with our luggage tags going on a cruise.
3) if it is possible, please list on your website where you have shuttles to and from. We stayed at the KOA in Mackinaw City. It would have been helpful to know that there was a shuttle. I had asked at the KOA if there was and they said that there was not a shuttle. Perhaps I didn't see that on your site. The shuttle drivers were awesome!
Thanks!
1) Can you put a sign for the line for people who already purchased tickets so that people don't end up standing in the wrong line?
2) In regards to taking bikes over, please find a way so that people do not have to wait in line if they chose to purchase bike passes on line. This is ridiculous to have to wait in line to get the pass. Do you really need to have the tag on it? If you can scan my ticket for me to enter the ferry, why not allow for there to be a scan for the bike? Or perhaps people can print them out and attach to the bike? We did this with our luggage tags going on a cruise.
3) if it is possible, please list on your website where you have shuttles to and from. We stayed at the KOA in Mackinaw City. It would have been helpful to know that there was a shuttle. I had asked at the KOA if there was and they said that there was not a shuttle. Perhaps I didn't see that on your site. The shuttle drivers were awesome!
Thanks!
Written July 4, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank you so much for the feedback! We will certainly bring these concerns to our staff. Part of the pass that is purchased for the bikes also serves as your license while on Mackinac Island. Without that wristband/ticket, you could a receive a fine up to $75 for not having a license on your bike while on Mackinac Island!! Again, we thank you for your feed back! We are always looking for ways to continue to be the best ferry service to Mackinac Island!
Written July 5, 2021
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Is there a discount for military veterans?
Written August 18, 2023
In order to receive a military discount do we need to purchase the tickets in person (at the ferry)?
Written June 5, 2021
How much are Military discounts or seniors discounts??
Written April 17, 2021
AndreaG10315
Traverse City, Michigan
Please bring you Military or Veteran ID to any ticket counter and we would gladly give you our Military Discount. Thank you for kindly for your service!
Written April 25, 2021
Are Island amenities open & available Easter weekend 2021--namely Sunday, April 4?
Written March 28, 2021
How much is it to ride the ferry in July-2 adults, 2 children
Written April 7, 2019
I suggest you go to their website. There is a family package. Also packages w free carriage rides you can only buy before you go. The ride is great.
Written April 8, 2019
Where is the best place to buy tickets for the ferry? Any discounts?
Written June 16, 2018
There are discounts if you buy online. Also depending on the hotel you stay at they may offer a discount. The MACpass happens to be the same price online AND at the ferry terminal.
Written June 16, 2018
We are planning an October Anniversary Trip, 19th to the 22st. and want to take the Star Line Ferry from St. Ignace. Just a couple of questions that I have not found a definitive answer for on their sight or the other questions and comments.
1) Being at the extreme tail end of the season, 19 - 21 Oct, I assume (yes I know what that means) that I do not have to purchase tickets early and the lines/crowds will not be bad. Am I wrong?
2) I do not mind paying for valet/parking for 3 nights, but is it "Covered" and "Secured" at St. Ignace?
Written May 9, 2018
That time of year can still be quite busy. A lot of people will stay in Mackinaw or St. Ignace when they go up north for the fall color tour. Purchasing in advance is always recommended. Neither of the ferry lines have covered parking, in either city. There is no valet parking. They do have staff there, but not sure about overnight. I recommend taking the ferry from Mackinaw City, as the Star Line dock is within walking distance from just about all of the hotels. If going to the island for just the day, it is much easier to leave your car at the hotel and walk to the dock in the morning and walk back from the dock in the evening. Plus, there is much more to do in Mackinaw City than there is in St. Ignace.
Written May 10, 2018
Vehicles are not allowed on the island.
Written April 11, 2018
I have no idea how fast the ferry is, I went from Mackinaw to Mackinac Island in about 15 minutes.
Written May 12, 2017
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