GRAND PORTAGE FERRY FIELD GUIDE
Perimeter Passage: One-Way Voyageur II from Rock Harbor to Chippewa Harbor
A one-hour, one-way inter-island trip aboard the purpose-built Voyageur II that runs clockwise around Isle Royale and drops passengers at trailheads and paddling points.
Perimeter Passage: One-Way Voyageur II from Rock Harbor to Chippewa Harbor.
Board the Voyageur II at Rock Harbor for a focused, one-hour crossing to Chippewa Harbor that doubles as an island-orbiting passage. The vessel was purpose-built for service on the Great Lakes and combines passenger comfort—booth seating, outdoor bow and stern decks and onboard restrooms—with the practicality of U.S. Mail service, offering uninterrupted views of Isle Royale’s shoreline and opportunities to disembark at scenic trailheads and paddling embarkation points.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
Voyageur II — Built for the Lakes
A 65' aluminum passenger vessel powered by twin Detroit diesels, the Voyageur II was purpose-built for Great Lakes service. Its 46-passenger capacity, cabin booth seating, outdoor bow and stern decks and onboard restrooms make it a practical, comfortable ferry for island hops.
Clockwise Perimeter Passage
The service travels clockwise around Isle Royale, giving riders the chance to see the island’s perimeter and to be dropped at several trailheads and paddling embarkation points for hikes and paddling excursions.
Short Crossing, Big Views
Though the leg from Rock Harbor to Chippewa Harbor is a one-hour, one-way passage, it functions as part of a larger island-circling itinerary—ideal for travelers looking to position themselves at trailheads or to sample Isle Royale’s shoreline from the water.
What the day feels like
What the trip feels like
This is a straightforward inter-island transfer aboard a workhorse passenger vessel: boarding at Rock Harbor, a seated crossing with outdoor viewing options, visual access to the island’s shoreline as the boat runs clockwise around Isle Royale, and disembarkation at Chippewa Harbor or selected trailhead stops. The trip is operated as both passenger and U.S. Mail service, combining practical transit with scenic observation.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this crossing suits—and who should plan differently.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
This is a one-hour, one-way leg; online outbound bookings close at midnight the day of travel and inbound online bookings close 24 hours in advance. In case of emergency, call the operator for same-day bookings.
Board at the Rock Harbor boat dock; all passengers should be on the dock 45 minutes before departure.
The Voyageur II offers booth seating in the cabin, outdoor seating on the bow and stern decks, and men's and women's restrooms.
The Voyageur II has a 46-passenger capacity and was purpose-built for service on the Great Lakes.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
Is this a round-trip service?
No. This listing is a one-way trip from Rock Harbor to Chippewa Harbor—you must purchase your return trip or have an alternate return plan when booking.
When should I arrive at the dock?
All passengers should be on the dock 45 minutes before scheduled departure times.
What are the online booking deadlines?
Online bookings for outbound trips close at midnight the day of travel; online bookings for inbound trips close 24 hours in advance.
What if I need a same-day booking due to an emergency?
In case of emergency, contact the operator by phone for same-day bookings.
How many passengers can the Voyageur II carry?
The Voyageur II has a 46-passenger capacity.
What amenities are available onboard?
The vessel has booth seating in the cabin, outdoor seating on bow and stern decks, men's and women's restrooms, and private crew quarters.