Ferry Service in Winter
I'm considering a New Years trip this year....if I can talk the spouse into it....tall order...but since MIFC is out of service (their website states to look at Shepler's) and when I look on Shepler's the date for service seems to end on Oct. 31st. Suggestions on where to look are appreciated. I'm googling all the different ways to ask the same question but I'm coming up blank.
Does this mean the only way over is via air?
Good question. It turns out that while ferry service to Mackinac Island *does* continue in winter — but under different arrangements depending on the time of year — it’s not quite as simple as the summer schedule.
Here’s how winter access works (and what to plan for) if you visit around New Year’s:
- Yes — there *is* ferry service in winter, operated by Arnold Transit Company (ATC). Their “winter ferry” runs November 1 through around mid-April (weather/ice permitting) between St. Ignace (Michigan mainland) and Mackinac Island.
- Another provider, Shepler’s Ferry, ends regular service by mid-December (December 15) — after that winter ferry is handled by Arnold Transit or, if conditions allow, by a ferry operated under winter rules.
- Ferry service may be sporadic or suspended if ice builds up. Harbors and the straits can freeze over, making boat travel impossible — especially later in winter.
Because of that uncertainty — especially around New Year’s when winter weather and ice are common — you should think of several backup or alternative ways to reach Mackinac Island, in case the ferry doesn’t run:
- Charter or scheduled flights to Mackinac Island Airport. There are small-plane air services (and charters) from nearby mainland airports such as St. Ignace, MI. It’s common to fly in winter when water passage becomes unreliable.
- Check ferry status often, and be ready for changes. Because service is contingent on ice and weather, it’s wise to monitor updates closely (ferry companies often note when winter service stops).
- Plan for limited on-island services. Even if you get there, many businesses, attractions, and amenities are reduced or closed in the winter season — fewer restaurants, fewer open shops, limited public services.
So, is ferry + boat the only way over in winter? Not strictly — but depending on ice conditions, boat access may be unreliable or unavailable. Flying to the island becomes the most dependable option if the water is frozen or ferry operators suspend service.
If you do decide to go for New Year’s, here are some practical suggestions to improve your odds of a successful trip:
- Contact Arnold Transit Company (or Shepler’s, if still within their December window) ahead of time to check whether the winter ferry is running.
- Have a backup plan — e.g., reserve a flight to Mackinac Island Airport (or arrange a charter) in case the ferry is canceled.
- Be flexible with your travel dates and expect limited amenities on the island during winter.
- Dress warmly and be prepared for winter weather — winter on Mackinac Island is quiet and often chilly, but can also be beautiful and peaceful.
Bottom line: A winter trip to Mackinac Island is possible — but it requires more planning and flexibility than a summer visit. Ferry service is available under winter-service rules (via Arnold Transit Company), but because ice can shut down water traffic winter travel often depends on flights or charters. If you’re up for the adventure (and some uncertainty), it’s doable — but not as straightforward as summer travel.
More Mackinac Island Travel Questions
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