How long is the ferry trip from Belle Isle to Rock Harbor?

The voyage on the Voyageur II takes approximately 1.5 hours.

Do I need to book a return trip when purchasing this ferry ride?

Yes, you must purchase your return trip or have an alternative plan prior to your visit.

Is there indoor seating on the ferry?

Yes, the vessel offers indoor booth seating as well as outdoor seating on the bow and stern decks.

Can I bring my bike or kayak aboard?

Check with Grand Portage Isle Royale Transportation Lines directly, as space and policies for gear vary.

What wildlife might I see on this route?

Common sightings include moose, bald eagles, and occasional grey wolves in the park vicinity.

Is the ferry accessible for individuals with mobility challenges?

Please contact the company ahead of time to discuss accessibility accommodations.

Ferry Journey from Belle Isle to Rock Harbor with Grand Portage

Set against the rugged beauty of Isle Royale National Park, the ferry journey from Belle Isle to Rock Harbor aboard the Voyageur II offers a distinctive way to experience one of the Great Lakes’ most remote wilderness places. Operated by Grand Portage Isle Royale Transportation Lines, this 65-foot aluminum vessel is designed specifically for the demands of the Great Lakes, linking key access points around the island’s perimeter in comfort and style.

Isle Royale National Park, located in Lake Superior near the U.S.–Canada border, is renowned for its pristine boreal forests, ancient volcanic rock formations, and crystal-clear waters. Traveling from Belle Isle—the eastern gateway—to Rock Harbor on the island’s northeastern shore, passengers are treated to sprawling lake vistas and glimpses of diverse wildlife, including moose wandering the forest edges and nesting bald eagles filtering the breeze above.

The Voyageur II’s route includes several stops at trailheads and paddling access points, providing ideal jumping-off spots for hikers and paddlers eager to dive into Isle Royale’s vast network of trails and waterways. The boat’s intimate 46-passenger capacity and thoughtfully designed amenities, such as both indoor booth seating and outdoor deck options, offer an inviting environment to relax while surrounded by nature’s raw grandeur.

Grand Portage Isle Royale Transportation Lines isn’t just a transport service; it’s a vital link facilitating sustainable visitation to a fragile wilderness where motorized vehicles are limited and human impact is minimized. The ferry supports adventurers in accessing Isle Royale’s unique ecosystem responsibly, making the journey itself an integral part of the outdoor experience.

Whether you’re setting out for a day hike, a paddling excursion, or a multi-day backcountry adventure, this ferry ride combines practicality with spectacular scenery. It’s an essential chapter in any visit to Isle Royale and a standout offering for travelers seeking to witness Lake Superior’s wild heart with both ease and reverence.