GRAND PORTAGE FERRY FIELD GUIDE
Perimeter Passage: Grand Portage to McCargoe Cove Aboard the Voyageur II
A one-way, 5.5-hour perimeter run aboard the purpose-built Voyageur II that delivers shoreline views and trailhead drops—essential reading for campers and multi-day visitors planning island access.
Perimeter Passage: Grand Portage to McCargoe Cove Aboard the Voyageur II.
Board the Voyageur II at Grand Portage and spend 5.5 hours tracing the edge of Isle Royale National Park. The 65-foot aluminum passenger vessel was purpose-built for Great Lakes service and combines passenger transport with U.S. Mail duty as it travels clockwise around the island, stopping at trailheads and paddling embarkation points and offering a unique way to access remote camping and multi-day routes.
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 built specifically for service on the Great Lakes. It carries up to 46 passengers with booth seating in the cabin, outdoor seating on the bow and stern decks, men's and women's restrooms, and private crew quarters.
A Clockwise Perimeter of Isle Royale
The Voyageur II travels clockwise around Isle Royale, giving passengers the opportunity to see the park's perimeter and allowing drops at several trailheads and paddling embarkation points around the island.
One-Way Service Tailored to Campers
This specific sailing is a one-way trip from Grand Portage to McCargoe Cove intended to ferry campers and multi-day visitors into the park; passengers must secure a return trip or alternate return plan when purchasing passage to Isle Royale.
What the day feels like
What the Passage Feels Like
Expect a route that feels like a slow, deliberate lap around an island wilderness: short stints in the cabin or on bow and stern decks punctuated by views of shoreline and the occasional transfer at a trailhead or paddling put-in. The Voyageur II combines practical transport with sightseeing — a working mail and passenger vessel that moves clockwise around the park and schedules its runs to serve backcountry access.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this trip suits — and who should plan differently.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
Plan for a 5.5-hour one-way transit. All passengers should be on the dock 45 minutes before departure to complete boarding procedures.
The Voyageur II offers booth seating in the cabin, outdoor seating on the bow and stern decks, and men's and women's restrooms onboard.
This is a one-way trip to McCargoe Cove; you must purchase a return trip or have an alternate return plan when booking. Note online booking windows and contact the operator in an emergency for same-day bookings.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
How long is the trip?
The one-way crossing aboard the Voyageur II runs approximately 5.5 hours.
Where and when do I meet the boat?
Meet at 402 Upper Rd, Grand Portage, MN 55605; all passengers should be on the dock 45 minutes before departure times.
Is this a round-trip service?
No — this listing is for a one-way trip from Grand Portage to McCargoe Cove. You must purchase your return trip or have an alternate return plan when purchasing passage to Isle Royale.
When do online bookings close?
Online bookings for outbound trips close at midnight the day of; online bookings for inbound trips close 24 hours in advance. In case of emergency, call the operator for same-day bookings.
What kind of boat is the Voyageur II?
The Voyageur II is a 65-foot aluminum passenger vessel powered by twin Detroit diesels, designed for Great Lakes service and carrying up to 46 passengers with cabin and outdoor seating, restrooms, and private crew quarters.
Are there restrooms and seating onboard?
Yes — the vessel has booth seating in the cabin and outdoor seating on the bow and stern decks, as well as men's and women's restrooms.