Voyageur II: A Clockwise Passage From Rock Harbor to Windigo

GRAND PORTAGE FERRY FIELD GUIDE

Voyageur II: A Clockwise Passage From Rock Harbor to Windigo

A one-way, 4.5-hour inter-island voyage around Isle Royale aboard the purpose-built Voyageur II — essential for planning shore drops and onward travel.

Voyageur II: A Clockwise Passage From Rock Harbor to Windigo.

Duration
4.5 Hours
Location
Grand Portage
Operator
Grand Portage Isle Royale Transportation Lines
Category
Ferry
Robert Eric Crews
Founder & Editor, The Adventure Collective
Published Verified

Board the Voyageur II at Rock Harbor and spend 4.5 hours traveling clockwise around Isle Royale aboard a 65-foot aluminum passenger vessel built for the Great Lakes. The route traces the island’s perimeter with scheduled stops at scenic trailheads and paddling embarkation points, and the trip is operated by Grand Portage Isle Royale Transportation Lines.

Highlights

Outing Highlights

THE VESSEL

Purpose-built comfort for Great Lakes passage

The Voyageur II is a 65' aluminum passenger vessel with booth seating in the cabin, outdoor seating on the bow and stern decks, men's and women's restrooms, and private crew quarters — designed to carry passengers and U.S. Mail around Isle Royale.

THE ROUTE

A true perimeter passage

Traveling clockwise around Isle Royale, the Voyageur II gives passengers a chance to see the island’s perimeter and disembark at multiple trailheads and paddling launch points as the vessel makes its one-way trip from Rock Harbor to Windigo.

THE SERVICE

A steady, scheduled inter-island run

Operating as an inter-island service, the Voyageur II combines passenger transport and mail service with seating for up to 46 passengers, providing dependable drops at several access points around the park.

What the day feels like

How the trip unfolds

This is a one-way passage from Rock Harbor to Windigo that moves clockwise around Isle Royale, offering views of the island’s shoreline and stops at designated trailheads and paddling embarkations. Onboard, passengers find booth seating inside and outdoor seating on bow and stern decks, plus restrooms for the duration of the roughly 4.5-hour transit.

Suitability

Who it's for

Who this trip suits — and what to watch for.

1
Independent Hikers & PaddlersIdeal for visitors planning to use the vessel as a transit to trailheads and launch points, provided they have a return or onward plan in place.
2
Small Groups & Guided PartiesSuitable for small parties, though the vessel has a finite capacity (46 passengers), so larger groups should coordinate reservations in advance.
3
One-way Transit PlannersA good option for travelers arranging one-way transport across the island, but remember you must purchase your return trip or secure alternate transportation before booking.
4
Time-sensitive TravelersNot ideal for those who cannot commit to strict check-in: all passengers must be on the dock 45 minutes before departure and booking windows for outbound/inbound trips are enforced.

Practical planner

Details to review before reserving

What to Bring

Onboard amenities include booth seating inside and outdoor seating on the bow and stern; restrooms are available. Pack personal layers for changing Great Lakes weather and any personal gear you need for shore activities.

Onboard Amenities

The Voyageur II was purpose-built for service on the Great Lakes and offers comfortable cabin seating, outdoor decks, and separate men's and women's restrooms.

Check-in & Timing

All passengers should arrive and be on the dock 45 minutes before departure to complete boarding procedures.

Booking Notice

Review cancellation policies before reserving.

Frequently asked questions

Planning Your Outing

How long is the voyage from Rock Harbor to Windigo?

The one-way trip duration is 4.5 hours.

Where do I meet the boat?

Departures are from the Rock Harbor Boat Dock; 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 Rock Harbor to Windigo; you must purchase your return trip or have an alternate return plan when booking.

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. For same-day emergencies, call the operator.

What is the vessel like onboard?

The Voyageur II is a 65' aluminum passenger vessel with booth seating inside, outdoor seating on the bow and stern decks, restrooms, and capacity for up to 46 passengers; it was purpose built for Great Lakes service.

Who operates this service?

Grand Portage Isle Royale Transportation Lines operates the Voyageur II service.