Manitou Island Transit Ferry

Manitou Island Transit is the passenger ferry from Leland's historic Fishtown to North and South Manitou Islands. It's the way to reach the islands, and the crossing is a big part of the outing: allow about 90 minutes each way. This is a planned day trip or overnight, not a quick hop from shore. Service normally runs seasonally from May through October, and reservations are required when boats are operating.

This is a slow crossing of Lake Michigan through Manitou Passage, not a short ride across a bay. The upper deck gives you the broadest views back toward Sleeping Bear's dune coast and North Manitou Island. It can be breezy and spray-prone up there, so bring a layer and keep your things tucked away.

The Grosvenor-Munoz family has connected Leland with the islands since 1917, and the operation is now in its fourth generation. The boat has carried mail and supplies as well as passengers, so this route has long been part of island life, not just a scenic ride.

The Leland terminal is at 207 W River Street, among Fishtown's old wooden shanties and working harbor. Leave a little time to look around before boarding. The landing is listed with car parking, a picnic table and a restroom; check which facilities are available for your trip.