MACKINAC ISLAND, MI - The snow may not be flying quite yet, but the seasonal switch has flipped to winter ferry service for Mackinac Island.

Hoffmann Marine runs both ferry companies that make runs to Mackinac Island: Shelpler’s and the Arnold Transit boats. Shepler’s runs as a seasonal business, from April through October each year. Arnold Transit Company runs year-round, as ice conditions allow, and holds the winter ferry contract for the island.

Winter ferry service officially begins on Nov. 1 and runs through the first part of April.

Where to board a ferry

All of Arnold Transit’s winter ferry trips to Mackinac Island depart from the Classic Dock in downtown St. Ignace. This is located at 99 N. State St., next to the Ace Hardware store.

This is the only place to catch a boat duri

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