Zip Across to Rock Harbor: Water Taxi Service from South Shore Island Docks

HOUGHTON TOWNSHIP TRANSPORTATION FIELD GUIDE

Zip Across to Rock Harbor: Water Taxi Service from South Shore Island Docks

One-way water taxi service connecting South Shore Island Docks with Rock Harbor—drop-offs, pickups, and canoe/kayak transport; reserve ahead and watch conditions.

Zip Across to Rock Harbor: Water Taxi Service from South Shore Island Docks.

Duration
Contact operator
Location
Houghton Township
Operator
Rock Harbor Lodge & Marina
Category
Transportation
Robert Eric Crews
Founder & Editor, The Adventure Collective
Published Verified

Zip across the lake with the Water Taxi, dropping you at remote island docks or ferrying your canoes and kayaks for quick backcountry escapes; reserve ahead for smooth, scenic rides under changing skies.

Highlights

Outing Highlights

THE ROUTE

Quick crossings to remote island docks

One-way trips shuttle guests between South Shore Island Docks and Rock Harbor, providing fast access to remote backcountry docks for drop-off or pick-up.

THE GEAR

Canoes and kayaks welcome

Guests may bring canoes or kayaks aboard the Water Taxi; transportation of canoes is allowed and the rate is the same as the one-guest rate, with a maximum of two canoes per trip.

THE SERVICE

Capacity, reservations, and conditions

Each trip accommodates up to six guests with backpacks only, or up to four guests when two canoes are carried; reservations are recommended and all Water Taxis are subject to weather and lake conditions.

What the day feels like

What the crossing feels like

The Water Taxi zips across the lake to ferry backpackers, paddlers, and lodge guests to remote docks—offering quick, scenic transport and the option to move boats and gear for backcountry access.

Suitability

Who it's for

Who this service suits — and who should make other plans.

1
BackpackersIdeal for backpackers seeking quick access to backcountry island docks; the service supports drop-offs and pickups for gear-only parties.
2
PaddlersWell suited to canoeists and kayakers because the Water Taxi carries small boats (up to two canoes per trip) and allows boat transport for the same per-guest rate.
3
Lodge GuestsA service offered to lodge guests as well as day visitors—useful for quick transfers to and from Rock Harbor and nearby island docks.
4
Large GroupsNot ideal for large groups due to onboard limits: maximum six guests with backpacks only, or configurations reduced when canoes are carried; multiple reservations would be required.

Practical planner

Details to review before reserving

What to Bring

Pack for a short boat transfer and backcountry access; guests commonly travel with backpacks or with canoes/kayaks when reserved in advance.

Canoe & Kayak Transport

Canoes and kayaks can be carried on the Water Taxi; there is a maximum of two canoes per trip and canoe transport is charged at the same rate as one guest.

Reservations & Capacity

Reservations are recommended; trips accept a maximum of six guests with backpacks only, or four guests when two canoes are aboard.

Booking Notice

Review cancellation policies before reserving.

Frequently asked questions

Planning Your Outing

What is the maximum number of guests per trip?

Each trip can include a maximum of six guests with backpacks only, or four guests with two canoes per trip.

Can I bring a canoe or kayak?

Yes. Guests can bring canoes or kayaks on the Water Taxi service; a maximum of two canoes is allowed per trip.

How is canoe transport charged?

Transportation of canoes is charged at the same rate as the one-guest rate.

Should I make a reservation?

Reservations are recommended.

Can trips be canceled or changed due to weather?

All Water Taxis are subject to weather and lake conditions, which may affect service.

Who operates the Water Taxi service?

The service is offered by Rock Harbor Lodge & Marina.