HOUGHTON FERRY FIELD GUIDE
Clockwise Passage: Chippewa Harbor to Windigo Aboard the Voyageur II
A 3.5-hour, one-way inter-island ferry on the purpose-built 65' Voyageur II that follows Isle Royale’s perimeter with passenger drops at scenic trailheads and paddling embarkation points.
Clockwise Passage: Chippewa Harbor to Windigo Aboard the Voyageur II.
Embark from Chippewa Harbor and cross open Lake Superior aboard the Voyageur II, a 65-foot aluminum passenger vessel purpose-built for service on the Great Lakes. The one-way run to Windigo traces Isle Royale’s perimeter, with stops that give access to trailheads and paddling launch sites; the boat combines U.S. Mail and passenger service and provides indoor booth seating, outdoor bow and stern seating, restrooms and private crew quarters.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
Purpose-built ferry with full passenger amenities
The Voyageur II is a 65' aluminum passenger vessel powered by twin Detroit diesels and built specifically for Great Lakes service; it seats passengers in cabin booths, offers outdoor bow and stern seating, has men's and women's restrooms and private crew quarters.
Perimeter passage with trailhead and paddling drops
The V2 travels clockwise around Isle Royale and provides visitors the chance to see the island’s perimeter while dropping passengers at several scenic trailheads and paddling embarkation points.
One-way service — plan your return
This is a one-way trip from Chippewa Harbor to Windigo; passengers must purchase a return trip or have an alternate return plan when booking and should arrive on the dock well in advance of departure.
What the day feels like
What the journey feels like
For roughly 3.5 hours you move around the island’s edge aboard a workhorse vessel: open-deck viewing alternates with sheltered cabin seating as the Voyageur II threads past rocky shoreline and drops passengers at trailheads and launch points. The route serves both island visitors and U.S. Mail needs, offering a practical and panoramic passage to Windigo.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this trip suits — and what to know before you go.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
The single-leg passage runs approximately 3.5 hours; passengers should be on the dock 45 minutes before departure.
Have your return ticket or alternate return plan secured before purchasing a one-way trip to Isle Royale.
The Voyageur II offers cabin booth seating, outdoor bow and stern seating and men's and women's restrooms for passenger comfort.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
How long is the trip from Chippewa Harbor to Windigo?
The one-way passage operates for approximately 3.5 hours.
Where do I meet the boat?
The meeting location is the Chippewa Harbor Boat Dock; all passengers should be on the dock 45 minutes before departure times.
Do I need to buy a return ticket?
Yes — this is a one-way trip and you must purchase your return trip or have an alternate return plan when purchasing a trip to Isle Royale.
When do online bookings close?
Online bookings for outbound trips close at midnight on the day of departure; online bookings for inbound trips close 24 hours in advance.
Can I book same-day in an emergency?
In case of emergency, you should call the operator for same-day bookings.