First Class Service
Every Guest, Every Day
Shepler’s Ferry
Join Shepler’s and be part of a fast‑paced, team‑focused environment delivering our family tradition of First Class Service to Mackinac Island!
Explore More
First Class Service
Every Guest, Every Day
Shepler’s Ferry
Join Shepler’s and be part of a fast‑paced, team‑focused environment delivering our family tradition of First Class Service to Mackinac Island!
Explore More
First Class Service
Every Guest, Every Day
Shepler’s Ferry
Join Shepler’s and be part of a fast‑paced, team‑focused environment delivering our family tradition of First Class Service to Mackinac Island!
Explore More
About Shepler’s Ferry
Get to know about us
Shepler's Mackinac Island Ferry has been a family-owned and operated ferry business since 1945, founded by Captain William H. Shepler to provide fast, efficient, and enjoyable service between Mackinaw City or St. Ignace and Mackinac Island.
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Stunning Boats
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Premium Cruise & Yatchs
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Priceless Experience
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Quality Service Guaranteed
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Professional Approach
Passenger Services
Free daily parking at mainland docks. Complimentary shuttle service to/from select hotels & campgrounds. Luggage handling assistance. Bicycle transport services. Pet-friendly travel
Marine & Boat Services
Full-service marine repair facility Engine sales, service & maintenance Hull & fiberglass repairs. Bottom painting & refinishing. Marine supply & ship store
Ferry Transportation
Fast ferry service between Mackinaw City, St. Ignace, and Mackinac Island. Frequent daily departures (seasonal operations). Priority / Enhanced boarding options
Private Charter Services
Private boat charters for weddings & receptions. Corporate events & company outings. Family reunions & milestone celebrations. Onboard bar service for charter events
Testimonials
Our Client Feedback
David M., Detroit
Feb 2025
We booked a private charter for our company event, and it exceeded expectations. The crew was professional, the boat was clean and spacious, and the sunset cruise created an unforgettable atmosphere. Our guests are still talking about the experience. Highly recommend Shepler’s for any special occasion!
Amanda R., Chicago
Feb 2026
Our trip to Mackinac Island started perfectly with Shepler’s Ferry. The boarding process was smooth, the staff was incredibly friendly, and the ride was fast and comfortable. The views of the Mackinac Bridge were absolutely stunning. It truly set the tone for an amazing family vacation!”
David M., Detroit
Feb 2025
We booked a private charter for our company event, and it exceeded expectations. The crew was professional, the boat was clean and spacious, and the sunset cruise created an unforgettable atmosphere. Our guests are still talking about the experience. Highly recommend Shepler’s for any special occasion!
80+
Years of
Experience
200+
Passengers Capacity
16
minute crossing time
Our Cruises
Sightseeing & Specialty Cruises
Shepler’s also operates cruises beyond the standard ferry route, including
Sunset Cruises
The cruise typically sails from Mackinaw City, gliding beneath the Mackinac Bridge and circling near Mackinac Island while the sky turns golden and orange as the sun goes down.
Lighthouse Cruises (Eastbound & Westbound)
Lighthouse Cruises are scenic boat tours that travel along the shores of Straits of Mackinac, offering up-close views of historic Great Lakes lighthouses and coastline vistas.
Evening & Les Cheneaux Cruises
The Evening Lighthouse Cruise sails at sunset through the Straits of Mackinac, combining dramatic dusk light with views of Great Lakes lighthouses coming alive under twilight, plus narrated maritime history.
Private Charter Cruises
Shepler’s Private Charter Cruises let you book an entire vessel for your group — ideal for cocktail receptions, catered dinners, tours, or celebrations on the open waters of the Straits of Mackinac.
News & Events
Shepler’s offerings vary by season, including:
Plan Your Visit
On-Board Experience
Comfortable seating with interior cabins and upper-deck viewing areas.
Crew offers insightful experiences like narration about the Mackinac Bridge on select departures (e.g., “Mighty Mac” trips). Friendly, well-trained staff committed to quality service.
Now Hiring
Shepler’s Mackinac Island Ferry offers a variety of seasonal job opportunities for those looking for a fast-paced on your feet job! We are looking for candidates that have a contagious smile and are team-oriented. Candidates who can provide our guests with First-Class Service everyday!
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Thank You
Here at Shepler’s we work hard to get everyone over to Mackinac Island quickly, safely, and efficiently, but without our guests – without family traditions, weddings, anniversaries, birthday celebrations, and family vacations – none of this would be possible. Not without YOU!
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Get Directions
If traveling North for a trip to Mackinac Island, guests can take exit #338 off of I-75 North, turn right at the stop sign and then left into our Day Lot at 311 S. Nicolet.
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