Ferry travel between Michigan and Wisconsin typically costs based on passenger vs vehicle type, route, and daylight vs peak seasons. The main cost drivers are vehicle size, cabin or seating options, and any included amenities. This guide provides practical price ranges in USD to help budget planning and comparisons.
| Item | Low | Average | High | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Passenger, Toe-to-Toe Fare | $6 | $12–$20 | $28 | One-way adult fare on common routes; varies by season. |
| Vehicle (Car) Admission | $25 | $40–$60 | $110 | Includes driver and one or more passengers; size-dependent. |
| Motorcycle / Bike | $12 | $15–$25 | $40 | Per-vehicle fee; equal to car in most cases. |
| RV / Large Vehicle Or Trailer | $50 | $90–$140 | $220 | Size and length affect pricing; may require special lanes. |
| Cabin or Reserved Seating | $20 | $40–$70 | $120 | Additional comfort; per-occupant or per-cabin charge. |
Typical Cost Range
Typical costs for a one-way trip range from about $6 per passenger to several hundred dollars for a vehicle with extras on longer routes. Key drivers include route distance, vehicle type, peak-season demand, and whether a cabin or priority seating is selected. Assumptions: region, route, vehicle size, and occupancy.
For planning, assume the following ranges for common itineraries: short routes with only a passenger fare hover around $6–$20 one-way, while a standard car crossing during peak season often lands in the $40–$60 range one-way. Longer trips or larger vehicles can push the price up to $110 or more per crossing. Prices vary by ferry operator and port pair, and some operators bundle parking or added services with the fare.
Cost Breakdown
Understanding the breakdown helps identify where savings come from. The table below shows typical components. Note that some operators publish bundled rates that blend several line items.
| Component | Common Range | Per-Unit Basis | Notes | Example | Assumptions |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Vehicle | $25–$110 | $ / vehicle | Size and weight influence the rate. | $40 for a mid-size car one-way | Standard passenger car with no trailer |
| Passenger | $6–$28 | $ / passenger | Adults typically cost more on longer routes. | $12 for one passenger | One-way fare, off-peak |
| Cabin / Reserved seating | $20–$120 | $ / cabin or seat | Higher on long crossings or premium services. | $60 cabin upgrade | 2–4 occupants, premium seating |
| Fees / Surcharges | $0–$20 | $ / fee | Port usage, fuel, or seasonal surcharges. | $15 peak-season surcharge | Seasonal adjustments |
| Parking / Delivery / Cargo | $0–$25 | $ / unit | On-site parking or pre-arranged drop-off cargo. | $10 parking | Facility-specific fees |
data-formula=”labor_hours × hourly_rate”> If labor is involved (boarding crew or vehicle handling), the cost typically appears as a small percentage of the total and is embedded in channel-specific fees.
Factors That Affect Price
Season, route, and vehicle type are the dominant price shapers for cross-lake ferries. Higher demand in summer, weekends, and holidays drives up both base fares and cabin surcharges. Short, car-only crossings are usually cheaper than longer passages requiring reserved seating or cabins.
Other influences include port facilities, vehicle dimensions, and whether the itinerary involves a shuttle between multiple ports. Some routes impose extra charges for trailers or oversized vehicles. Assumptions: standard car, no trailer, off-peak travel.
Ways To Save
Smart timing and package options can trim costs. Plan midweek travel or off-peak times to secure lower fares. Compare routes that use smaller ports with simpler operations, which may reduce surcharges. Consider walking on as a passenger if a vehicle is not needed for the trip, and look for multi-ride or seasonal passes offered by operators.
Bundle cabins or seats with return trips when available to lock in lower per-trip rates. Some operators offer discounted rates for seniors or children; verify eligibility before booking. Assumptions: non-discounted adult standard fare, no promotions applied.
Regional Price Differences
Prices for the Michigan–Wisconsin ferries vary by region and route. The Lake Michigan corridor includes lakeshore ports in the Upper Peninsula and along the southern Wisconsin coast. Urban hubs near larger ferry terminals may carry higher peak-season pricing, while rural or less busy ports can offer leaner rates during shoulder seasons.
Central and Northern Midwest routes often show a wider spread between low and high quotes due to vessel size and service tier. On typical routes from a Michigan port to a Wisconsin port within 60–120 miles, expect modest spreads compared with longer trans-Great Lakes crossings. Assumptions: three representative routes, seasonal variance considered.
Labor & Installation Time
Labor costs are typically not itemized for ferry trips in consumer pricing, but on complex charters or corporate ferries they may appear as short service charges. For standard passenger and vehicle crossings, the primary drivers remain vessel capacity, fuel, and port fees. Typical processing times at the terminal range from 15 to 45 minutes per vehicle, depending on queue length and dock procedures.
For budgeting, consider the potential impact of delays on total trip time and any overnight accommodations if a layover becomes necessary. Assumptions: single-vehicle crossing with standard processing.
Additional & Hidden Costs
Hidden costs can surprise first-time travelers. Parking fees near terminals, in-dock pickup charges, or luggage surcharges may apply on some routes. If a cabin or premium seating is desired, the upgrade price is typically presented clearly at booking, but optional extras like pet transport or special handling can add to the total. Be aware of late booking penalties on busy routes. Assumptions: basic trip with optional cabin upgrade.
Real-World Pricing Examples
Three scenario cards illustrate typical quotes for common Michigan–Wisconsin crossings, reflecting different needs and timing. These snapshots assume standard rates and no promotions.
Basic: One adult, no vehicle
Route: Mackinac to Escanaba (example short hop) – One-way passenger fare: $6–$12. Total: around $6–$12. Time at terminal: 20–30 minutes. Assumptions: off-peak timing, no add-ons.
Mid-Range: One adult with small car
Route: Milwaukee to Muskegon (example mid-distance) – Vehicle: $40–$60; Passenger: $6–$12; Optional cabin: $40–$70. Total: $86–$142. Time: 30–60 minutes. Assumptions: off-peak travel, standard-size sedan.
Premium: Family trip with larger vehicle
Route: Traverse City to Leland or neighboring Wisconsin port (longer crossing) – Vehicle: $90–$140; Passengers: 3–4 × $8–$20; Cabin: $60–$120. Total: $270–$420. Time: 1–2 hours on the water. Assumptions: family group, cabin included.
Prices shown are estimates for planning purposes. Operators frequently adjust rates by season and port pair, and some routes offer seasonal packages or exclusive promotions. Assumptions: standard ferry operators, typical vehicle classes, active promotions not applied.
- Assurance: Always confirm the exact fare during booking and review any additional port charges.
- Alternatives: If schedules permit, consider alternative routes or lesser-used ports for potential savings.
- Timing: Booking early in shoulder seasons can yield lower base fares.