GRAND PORTAGE FERRY FIELD GUIDE
Voyageur II: A Two‑Hour One‑Way Passage from Grand Portage to Windigo around Isle Royale
A concise guide to the Grand Portage → Windigo Voyageur II run, covering what to expect aboard the purpose-built vessel, boarding requirements, and the route’s stops for campers and multi‑day visitors.
Voyageur II: A Two‑Hour One‑Way Passage from Grand Portage to Windigo around Isle Royale.
The Voyageur II runs one way from Grand Portage to Windigo, tracing a clockwise course around Isle Royale and dropping passengers at trailheads and paddling embarkation points; the 65' aluminum passenger vessel offers booth seating, outdoor bow and stern decks, restrooms and a 46‑passenger capacity for a comfortable, two‑hour transit into the park.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
Clockwise Perimeter Passage
The Voyageur II travels clockwise around Isle Royale, giving passengers an opportunity to see the island’s perimeter and enabling drops at several trailheads and paddling launch points.
Trailheads and Paddling Embarkations
This one‑way run makes strategic stops to place campers and paddlers at access points around the park, supporting multi‑day trips and backcountry itineraries.
Purpose‑Built Service Vessel
The Voyageur II is a purpose‑built 65' aluminum passenger vessel powered by twin Detroit diesels that combines passenger service and U.S. Mail delivery for Isle Royale.
What the day feels like
How the Passage Feels
Expect a brisk, two‑hour coastal transit aboard a workmanlike aluminum vessel: booth seating in the cabin, outdoor seating on bow and stern decks and the basic amenities—restrooms and private crew quarters—while the boat rounds the island and makes selective drops at trailheads and paddling launch sites.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this run suits — and who should plan differently.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
The passage from Grand Portage to Windigo is a two‑hour one‑way run; plan to be on the dock 45 minutes before departure.
Board at 402 Upper Rd, Grand Portage, MN 55605 and allow time for the operator’s check‑in; online booking windows differ for outbound and inbound trips and same‑day emergency bookings require calling the operator.
The Voyageur II provides booth seating in the cabin, outdoor seating on bow and stern decks, men’s and women’s restrooms and private crew quarters; the vessel was built for Great Lakes service.
This is a one‑way service; you must purchase your return trip or have an alternate return plan when you buy passage to Isle Royale.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
How long is the trip from Grand Portage to Windigo?
The Voyageur II trip from Grand Portage to Windigo is two hours.
Where and when do I board?
Boarding is at 402 Upper Rd, Grand Portage, MN 55605; all passengers should be on the dock 45 minutes before departure.
Do I need to buy a return ticket?
Yes — this is a one‑way trip to Windigo; you must purchase your return trip or have an alternate return plan when purchasing passage.
What are the online booking deadlines?
Online bookings for outbound trips close at midnight on the day of departure; online bookings for inbound trips close 24 hours in advance; for same‑day emergency bookings, call the operator.
How many passengers can Voyageur II carry?
The Voyageur II has a 46‑passenger capacity.