GRAND PORTAGE FERRY FIELD GUIDE
Voyageur II: A One‑Way, Four‑Hour Passage from Daisy Farm to Windigo
A concise guide to the one‑way ferry aboard the Voyageur II — what the boat is like, the route it follows around Isle Royale, and the logistics you must plan before you go.
Voyageur II: A One‑Way, Four‑Hour Passage from Daisy Farm to Windigo.
Board the Voyageur II, a purpose‑built 65' aluminum passenger vessel powered by twin Detroit diesels, for a clockwise circumnavigation of Isle Royale. The boat combines U.S. Mail and passenger service and travels a route that lets visitors see the island's perimeter, with passenger drops at multiple trailheads and paddling embarkation points; the vessel offers cabin booth seating, outdoor bow and stern decks, separate restrooms and room for up to 46 passengers.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
Voyageur II — Built for the Great Lakes
The Voyageur II is a 65' aluminum passenger vessel powered by twin Detroit diesels and configured for service on the Great Lakes; it carries up to 46 passengers and provides both indoor booth seating and outdoor deck options, plus men's and women's restrooms.
Perimeter Cruise with Trailhead and Paddle Drops
The route travels clockwise around Isle Royale, offering passengers the chance to see the island's perimeter and to be dropped at several scenic trailheads and paddling embarkation points for further exploration.
One‑Way Passage — Plan Your Return
This trip runs one way from Daisy Farm to Windigo; passengers should plan ahead for their return, and be prepared to board and disembark according to the operator's schedule and stops.
What the day feels like
What the Trip Feels Like
You board at the dock and settle into booth seating or step outside on the bow or stern deck as the Voyageur II slides away. The vessel moves clockwise around Isle Royale, pausing for passenger drops at trailheads and paddling access points as it shows the island’s shoreline in changing light.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this crossing suits — and the operational limits to keep in mind.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
Be aware of the operator’s online booking windows and emergency booking procedures; plan return travel before you depart Windigo.
All passengers should be on the dock 45 minutes before departure to complete boarding procedures.
The vessel provides indoor seating, outdoor deck seating and separate men's and women's restrooms.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
How long is the Daisy Farm → Windigo trip?
The one‑way trip duration is four hours.
Where do I meet for departure?
Passengers meet at the Daisy Farm Boat Dock and should be on the dock 45 minutes before departure.
Is this a round‑trip service?
No — this is a one‑way trip from Daisy Farm to Windigo; you must purchase your return trip or have an alternate return plan when booking.
What vessel is used for the trip?
The Voyageur II, a 65' aluminum passenger vessel powered by twin Detroit diesels, is used; it carries up to 46 passengers and offers indoor and outdoor seating plus restrooms.
When do online bookings close?
Online bookings for outbound trips close at midnight the day of travel; online bookings for inbound trips close 24 hours in advance; in case of emergency, call the operator for same‑day bookings.