Star Line Mackinac Island Hydro-Jet Ferry
Star Line Mackinac Island Hydro-Jet Ferry
Star Line Mackinac Island Hydro-Jet Ferry
4.5
7:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Monday
7:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Tuesday
7:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Wednesday
7:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Thursday
7:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Friday
7:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Saturday
7:00 AM - 4:00 PM
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The area
Address
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Best nearby
Restaurants
31 within 3 miles
Attractions
36 within 6 miles
See what travelers are saying
- Stacy C1 contributionThe two companies are NOT the sameWe had used the other ferry company (Shepler’s) on our last trip and figured we would try this one for a comparison. We waited nearly 2 hours in their parking lot in line to board. In the mean time, we could see the competitors dock. They had 3 ferries leaving their docks and Starline had 1 leave. Same scenario on the return trip. We will not use this company again.Visited July 2023Traveled with familyWritten July 3, 2023
- Alexander M5 contributionsNot the best for impatient peopleIt was a very long wait to get there. Got a reservation for around 9:30 in the morning; got on the ship around 11 instead. Lines are extremely long, everything is confusing, staff do not seem like they want to be there. We sat around the edge, where someone almost puked over the edge (if I looked at how close we were to the water, I'd freak out, too). Once we went to leave at around 8 at night, we found ourselves waiting until around ten at night. Needless to say, it was not great, but nevertheless, we got there, and we got back, so it was OK.Visited July 2023Traveled with familyWritten September 28, 2023
- Travel17_2004147 contributionsSoaked suitcaseI believe this is rare but my luggage was completely soaked through the suitcase to all the clothes. EVERYTHING! I had one piece of luggage. Had I know this was even possible, I would have hauled it on with me. When I got there they were like, hmm, weird. I called but no one could talk to me from management. Pretty disappointing to start your trip with completely wet clothes in October, not to mention a suede dress that was ruined. Other than that they were on time, but it was pretty disorganized getting back. They removed our bikes from the ferry and four more times tried to load them back onto the ferry. We had to stand guard to make sure they didn't put them back on until our car got there to pick up everything.Visited October 2023Traveled as a coupleWritten October 16, 2023
These reviews are the subjective opinion of Tripadvisor members and not of TripAdvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
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Detailed Reviews: Reviews order informed by descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as cleanliness, atmosphere, general tips and location information.
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4.5
637 reviews
Excellent
424
Very good
134
Average
46
Poor
18
Terrible
15
Cowboydavy115
Spokane, WA302 contributions
Aug 2021
I like Star Ferry since their dock gets us closer to the hotels we use. This is the first time that I had cruised under the Mighty Mac and it awesome. Morning was pleasant and the Lakes were smooth so the ferry ride to the Island was very special. And when we docked we were right across the street from our hotel. Very convenient.
Written November 17, 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.
Rose C
Dayton, OH97 contributions
Sep 2020 • Couples
Friendly staff and fun ride. Not all rides go under the bridge so ask before you book about specific times. Staff did ensure all we’re wearing masks on the trip but you could potentially be spaced closer than 6 feet. We’re being very cautious and felt safe.
Just get a bike once on the island and avoid the mass of crowds.
Just get a bike once on the island and avoid the mass of crowds.
Written September 17, 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.
Thank you for leaving us a review! Glad you enjoyed the true beauty of Mackinac Island. See you again soon!
Written September 28, 2020
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Lakegirl1261
40 contributions
Oct 2023
We took off from the St Ignace side and the captain took us under the bridge and slowed way down so we could see the majesty of the bridge. Great crew, efficient, friendly and I love the rooster spray tail on the back. So beautiful,
Written October 4, 2023
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.
Griffin R
Chicago, IL10 contributions
Sep 2020 • Family
Waited in line for almost 1 hour to buy 4 tickets. Missed the boat because there was only one person selling tickets. Then waited for a boat at 11 boat didn’t come back to pick us up until 12:15. Leaving the island was just as bad of an experience. They give no refunds for boats not being on time, definitely hard to plan a trip if the boats don’t follow any kind of schedule
Written September 23, 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.
Hello, thank you for leaving us an honest review. Please contact our office with more details of this situation. There has not been a time this year that anyone has had to wait an hour to purchase tickets in either Mackinaw City or Saint Ignace. We can be reached at 800-638-9892 *200. We look forward to hearing more about your experience.
Written September 28, 2020
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Allen B
Muskegon, MI1,149 contributions
Jun 2021
They said masks were required since it is regulated by Federal Transport Administration regardless of whether you are vaccinated. That was fine with us since some people would not be honest, but people downstairs inside were pulling them down once inside so we went up-top in the fresh air. The seats are leaned back so far that I needed help getting pulled out of it when we stopped. Very uncomfortable. Next time we are going to stick with the other line.
Written June 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.
Alexander M
5 contributions
Jul 2023 • Family
It was a very long wait to get there. Got a reservation for around 9:30 in the morning; got on the ship around 11 instead. Lines are extremely long, everything is confusing, staff do not seem like they want to be there. We sat around the edge, where someone almost puked over the edge (if I looked at how close we were to the water, I'd freak out, too). Once we went to leave at around 8 at night, we found ourselves waiting until around ten at night. Needless to say, it was not great, but nevertheless, we got there, and we got back, so it was OK.
Written September 28, 2023
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.
gregandkelly
Freeland, MI70 contributions
Jun 2020 • Couples
Waiting 1 hour for a trip to the island. Apparently a ferry broke down while we waited. Then we’re advised 7 minutes for the next to arrive. We might make it we might not.
Oh and no refunds, “says on the ticket.” Even though they cannot provide service.
Head to Sheplers!
Oh and no refunds, “says on the ticket.” Even though they cannot provide service.
Head to Sheplers!
Written June 27, 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.
Travel17_2004
Minnesota147 contributions
Oct 2023 • Couples
I believe this is rare but my luggage was completely soaked through the suitcase to all the clothes. EVERYTHING! I had one piece of luggage. Had I know this was even possible, I would have hauled it on with me. When I got there they were like, hmm, weird. I called but no one could talk to me from management. Pretty disappointing to start your trip with completely wet clothes in October, not to mention a suede dress that was ruined.
Other than that they were on time, but it was pretty disorganized getting back. They removed our bikes from the ferry and four more times tried to load them back onto the ferry. We had to stand guard to make sure they didn't put them back on until our car got there to pick up everything.
Other than that they were on time, but it was pretty disorganized getting back. They removed our bikes from the ferry and four more times tried to load them back onto the ferry. We had to stand guard to make sure they didn't put them back on until our car got there to pick up everything.
Written October 16, 2023
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.
Stacy C
1 contribution
Jul 2023 • Family
We had used the other ferry company (Shepler’s) on our last trip and figured we would try this one for a comparison. We waited nearly 2 hours in their parking lot in line to board. In the mean time, we could see the competitors dock. They had 3 ferries leaving their docks and Starline had 1 leave. Same scenario on the return trip. We will not use this company again.
Written July 3, 2023
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.
copperdragon66
Pittsburgh, PA662 contributions
Jul 2017 • Family
Unless you own a boat, or can afford a plane, you're going to need a ferry ride to get you to Mackinac Island. Star Line is one of two services you can take, and while they are about the same, running at similar frequencies, the Star Line have exclusively used the "hydro-jet" boats. These go a bit faster than the competitor's ferries, and create a distinctive "rooster tail" plume of water behind the ferry.
We took the ferry from St Ignace. My comments here refer to that service only.
If you've taken other cruises on the great lakes you might be used to narration, or friendly interpreters. The staff at Star LIne are friendly and helpful, to be sure, but they don't feature any narration on the trip. It's all strictly business, as you might expect taking any other public transportation.
If you have luggage, drive to the "drop off" point and unload your car and passengers. Then drive across the highway under the large sign that says "Star Line overnight parking" This is the only free parking lot and is inside a fenced area. Star Line locks this up at night when the ferry boats aren't running.
Tell the baggage handler what hotel or B&B you're staying at. They will tag your bags for you. You then stand in line and wait for the next ferry.
The trip takes about 20 minutes. When boarding you have a choice of upper (open) or lower (enclosed) seating. You aren't allowed to stand when the ferry is underway, although we did see a few people moving seats. Standing is strongly discouraged.
When you arrive, you will meet a porter from your hotel (the ferry calls ahead after tagging your bags). The porter will take your luggage to the hotel while you walk. I recommend you do NOT watch the porter taking your luggage as they will probably balance 5 or more suitcases on a flimsy looking bicycle basket and take off for your hotel. Don't dawdle, go straight to your hotel, the porter is waiting for you with your bags. Once having arrived it's customary to tip the porter between $2-3 per bag. They will have taken your bags up to your room already.
Top Tips:
If you buy your tickets at home, you can save money. The online system also has discounted packages for families, or several adults traveling together. You don't need to specify a time/date and many print-at-home tickets don't require you to visit the ticket office prior to boarding if you printed them online.
If you sometimes get seasick, note that while it's a short ride to the island, the straits can be choppy. Sit on the upper deck (fresh air) or take dramamine if the weather is poor - the lower deck was stuffy (no air movement) on our trip.
A few trips a day will detour to go under the "Mighty Mac" bridge. Look online at the ferry schedule for your travel day and see which ones go there if you're interested in a close up view of the fifth longest suspension bridge in the world. There is no extra charge for these ferry rides.
We took the ferry from St Ignace. My comments here refer to that service only.
If you've taken other cruises on the great lakes you might be used to narration, or friendly interpreters. The staff at Star LIne are friendly and helpful, to be sure, but they don't feature any narration on the trip. It's all strictly business, as you might expect taking any other public transportation.
If you have luggage, drive to the "drop off" point and unload your car and passengers. Then drive across the highway under the large sign that says "Star Line overnight parking" This is the only free parking lot and is inside a fenced area. Star Line locks this up at night when the ferry boats aren't running.
Tell the baggage handler what hotel or B&B you're staying at. They will tag your bags for you. You then stand in line and wait for the next ferry.
The trip takes about 20 minutes. When boarding you have a choice of upper (open) or lower (enclosed) seating. You aren't allowed to stand when the ferry is underway, although we did see a few people moving seats. Standing is strongly discouraged.
When you arrive, you will meet a porter from your hotel (the ferry calls ahead after tagging your bags). The porter will take your luggage to the hotel while you walk. I recommend you do NOT watch the porter taking your luggage as they will probably balance 5 or more suitcases on a flimsy looking bicycle basket and take off for your hotel. Don't dawdle, go straight to your hotel, the porter is waiting for you with your bags. Once having arrived it's customary to tip the porter between $2-3 per bag. They will have taken your bags up to your room already.
Top Tips:
If you buy your tickets at home, you can save money. The online system also has discounted packages for families, or several adults traveling together. You don't need to specify a time/date and many print-at-home tickets don't require you to visit the ticket office prior to boarding if you printed them online.
If you sometimes get seasick, note that while it's a short ride to the island, the straits can be choppy. Sit on the upper deck (fresh air) or take dramamine if the weather is poor - the lower deck was stuffy (no air movement) on our trip.
A few trips a day will detour to go under the "Mighty Mac" bridge. Look online at the ferry schedule for your travel day and see which ones go there if you're interested in a close up view of the fifth longest suspension bridge in the world. There is no extra charge for these ferry rides.
Written August 4, 2017
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.
beadlebug07
Grand Rapids, MI
How much does it cost to take the ferry to and from the island?
MikeNSueP
Grand Rapids, MI40 contributions
Their full price list is available on their website. Adult is $24 and child is $13 round trip.
Sightsee455742
Jackson, MI
Is the only way to get from St. Ignace to Mackinac Island by ferry or can I take the bridge? I’ll be going for the first time and I’m curious.
buchster2
Upper Sandusky, OH194 contributions
You must take a Ferry either from St. Ignace or Mackinaw City. You either walk, rent a bike or take your own bike or ride horse drawn wagons or horse back. Be prepared to eat some good Fudge also as every other shop is fudge!
Brenda C
Carterville, IL377 contributions
How long does it take to get to the island?
CaptMc
South Haven, MI53 contributions
It depends on the weather of course, but 20 to 30 minutes is about right. A little longer if the trip goes under the Mackinaw Bridge, which if you have the time is more than worthwhile!!
Cheers!
Jan E
Fort Worth, TX9 contributions
Do you allow pets on the ferry?
LakeState
Howell, MI20 contributions
Yes, you may bring your dog(s) on the ferry as long as it is on a leash and under control. Most businesses on the Island do not allow dogs into their establishments unless they are seeing eye dogs. Also, by city ordinance you must have your dog on a leash and under control at all times as well as clean up after them.
san826
Saint Charles, MO16 contributions
I've never been there....where do you park your car to get on the/a ferry? Looking at the map on my computer screen, it looks like the ferry stop is a dot on a bridge. Is there parking for your car there if you spend two or three days on Mackinaw Island? Thank you.
Haley C
Saint Ignace, MI
Thanks for asking this question! There is plenty of parking for the ferry either in Mackinaw City or St. Ignace. There are multiple levels of parking options, free, secured-overnight, and valet. When you arrive at the dock, you'll unload your luggage and then select your parking option. This way, you won't have to walk your luggage and bags across the parking lot after you park - we take care of the heavy lifting!
pamdoval
Rio Rancho, NM1 contribution
We are planning a trip to Mackinac Island in 2017, and are wondering what time the last ferry normally leaves from St. Ignace on a week night in mid September. Thanks in advance.
Haley C
Saint Ignace, MI
Typically the last ferry from St. Ignace to Mackinac Island on a weeknight in September is around 6pm. Our schedule changes from year to year, and the 2017 schedule will be released in late winter to early spring. Thanks!
Islander46879
Greensburg, PA4 contributions
What is the schedule for the new catamaran to mackinac island from mackinaw city?
Haley C
Saint Ignace, MI
The Mackinac Express is running every hour, on the top of the hour, out of Mackinaw City.
what the latest ferry back on the 10th of Sept
Haley C
Saint Ignace, MI
8pm to St. Ignace, and 9pm to Mackinaw City.
Allison Y
5 contributions
Hi, I would like to know how/where to buy this activity package this reviewer mentioned that includes a trip on the hydro ferry, a carriage ride and entrance into the fort on Mackinaw Island. Thank you
Haley C
Saint Ignace, MI
Hi Allison! You can purchase our Discounted Island Package at our dock or at our website. Thanks!
hookedonyanni
Brownsville, TX31 contributions
Our one day trip to Mackinac Island is scheduled for Wednesday, August 3, 2016. Do we need to purchase tickets NOW to take the ferry to the Island OR can it wait until we actually arrive?
Haley C
Saint Ignace, MI
You can purchase tickets online, in advance to save time and money, or you can purchase tickets at the dock!
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Claim your listingStar Line Mackinac Island Hydro-Jet Ferry - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (with Photos)
Frequently Asked Questions about Star Line Mackinac Island Hydro-Jet Ferry
- Star Line Mackinac Island Hydro-Jet Ferry is open:
- Mon - Fri 7:00 AM - 5:00 PM
- Sat - Sat 7:00 AM - 4:00 PM
- Hotels near Star Line Mackinac Island Hydro-Jet Ferry:
- (0.06 mi) Driftwood Motel
- (0.17 mi) Budget Host Inn & Suites
- (0.27 mi) Wayside Motel
- (0.20 mi) Huron Inn
- (0.42 mi) Best Western Harbour Pointe Lakefront
- Restaurants near Star Line Mackinac Island Hydro-Jet Ferry:
- (0.08 mi) Molly Moo's
- (0.06 mi) Driftwood Restaurant and Sports Bar
- (0.21 mi) The Wild Blueberry
- (0.34 mi) B.C. Pizza
- (0.35 mi) The Galley Restaurant
Star Line Mackinac Island Hydro-Jet Ferry Information
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