HOUGHTON FERRY FIELD GUIDE
Voyageur II: A 3.5‑hour clockwise sweep from Windigo to Belle Isle
A one‑way inter‑island passage aboard the 65' Voyageur II that circumnavigates Isle Royale, useful for planning timing, boarding, and return logistics.
Voyageur II: A 3.5‑hour clockwise sweep from Windigo to Belle Isle.
Embark from Windigo aboard the Voyageur II, a purpose‑built 65' aluminum passenger vessel, for a 3.5‑hour one‑way ride that traces the perimeter of Isle Royale. The trip combines reliable passenger and U.S. Mail service with scheduled drops at trailheads and paddling embarkation points, offering wide vistas, comfortable cabin seating and outdoor decks as you travel clockwise around the island and ultimately land at Belle Isle.
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 both comfort and function: booth seating in the cabin, outdoor seating on bow and stern decks, restrooms, and private crew quarters aboard a vessel designed for island service.
A clockwise perimeter run with multiple drop points
The trip travels clockwise around Isle Royale, offering passengers a continuous view of the island’s shoreline and the option to disembark at several trailheads and paddling embarkation points located around the park.
One‑way passage with an overnight stop on the schedule
This is a one‑way voyage from Windigo to Belle Isle; the vessel’s normal rotation includes an overnight at Rock Harbor, and passengers should plan return travel separately as the outbound purchase does not include a return leg.
What the day feels like
How the trip unfolds
Board at Windigo and settle into booth seating in the cabin or step out onto the bow or stern deck for uninterrupted views as the Voyageur II makes its clockwise circuit. Over roughly 3.5 hours the boat follows the island’s perimeter, pausing at designated trailheads and paddling points to drop or pick up passengers before completing the one‑way run to Belle Isle.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this passage suits — and when to look for alternatives.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
This is a 3.5‑hour one‑way voyage; all passengers should be on the Windigo dock 45 minutes before departure to complete boarding procedures.
The vessel provides booth seating in the cabin, outdoor seating on bow and stern decks, and separate men’s and women’s restrooms.
The Voyageur II is a 65' aluminum passenger boat powered by twin Detroit diesels, designed for service on the Great Lakes and configured for mixed passenger and U.S. Mail service.
This is a one‑way trip; you must purchase a return trip or have an alternate return plan when booking. Online booking windows differ for outbound and inbound trips—check operator guidance before travel and call in emergencies for same‑day bookings.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
How long is the trip from Windigo to Belle Isle?
The one‑way passage aboard the Voyageur II takes approximately 3.5 hours.
Where do I board the Voyageur II?
Boarding is at the Windigo boat dock; all passengers should be on the dock 45 minutes before departure.
Do I need to buy a return ticket?
Yes. This route is a one‑way trip from Windigo to Belle Isle; you must purchase your return trip or have an alternate return plan when purchasing a trip to Isle Royale.
What are the online booking cutoffs?
Online bookings for outbound trips close at midnight on the day of travel; online bookings for inbound trips close 24 hours in advance. For same‑day emergencies, call the operator for bookings.
How many passengers can the Voyageur II carry and what amenities are aboard?
The vessel has a 46‑passenger capacity, with booth seating in the cabin, outdoor seating on the bow and stern decks, and men’s and women’s restrooms.
Does the vessel make stops around Isle Royale?
Yes. The Voyageur II travels clockwise around Isle Royale and allows passenger drops at several trailheads and paddling embarkation points around the perimeter, with the operator’s rotation including an overnight at Rock Harbor.