Set sail from Grand Portage for a focused day of wilderness hiking, lakeside views, and local culture on Isle Royale. Ideal for those eager to experience this remote national park without an overnight stay.
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
7 hours total with 4 hours on island
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; moderate walking required for guided hikes
Wildlife
History
Isle Royale was designated a national park in 1940, preserving its rich natural and cultural heritage, including Native American copper mining sites.
Conservation
Strict Leave No Trace principles are promoted to protect Isle Royale’s fragile ecosystem and its rare wolf and moose populations.
Grand Portage Isle Royale Transportation Lines
Set sail from Grand Portage for a focused day of wilderness hiking, lakeside views, and local culture on Isle Royale. Ideal for those eager to experience this remote national park without an overnight stay.
Grand Portage Isle Royale Transportation Lines provides scheduled boat transportation and island shuttle service to Isle Royale National Park aboard the Voyageur II.
The company operates a 65' aluminum vessel designed for the Great Lakes and offers a range of one-way and round-trip routes connecting key island access points, including Grand Portage, Rock Harbor, Windigo, Daisy Farm, Malone Bay, McCargoe Cove, Chippewa Harbor, and Belle Isle. Trips vary from full perimeter runs to shorter day trips, with stops at scenic trailheads and paddling spots to support hikers, paddlers, and island visitors.
The Voyageur II features comfortable seating and onboard amenities intended to support passenger comfort during island transfers and sightseeing cruises. Routes are scheduled to provide direct connections between mainland departure points and island landings, making it possible to arrange point-to-point travel across Isle Royale National Park without backtracking.
All published trip summaries emphasize the vessel’s design for the Great Lakes, the scenic nature of perimeter cruising, and stops at established trailheads. The business lists named itineraries and day trip options that serve both recreational visitors and those accessing backcountry trail systems. For visitors planning travel to Isle Royale, Grand Portage Isle Royale Transportation Lines offers a practical transportation alternative that focuses on connecting widely used island destinations with direct boat service aboard an appropriately sized Great Lakes vessel.
Routes
23 routes
Flexible island connections
Vessel
Voyageur II — 65'
Aluminum hull for Great Lakes
Destination
Isle Royale National Park
Stops at scenic trailheads
Seating
Comfortable seating
Passenger amenities onboard
Check schedules and choose a route for day trips or point-to-point island transfers — secure a seat on scheduled sailings today.
Arrive Early at the Dock
Be at the Grand Portage dock 20 minutes before departure to ensure a smooth boarding on the Sea Hunter III.
Wear Layered Clothing
Lake Superior’s weather can shift quickly; bring layers including wind and rain gear for comfort during hikes and boat travel.
Bring a Daypack with Essentials
Pack water, snacks, and sunscreen to stay prepared during your four hours on Isle Royale’s trails and picnic areas.
Respect Wildlife
Observe animals like moose and wolves from a distance and follow Leave No Trace principles to protect the park's ecosystem.
Waterproof Jacket
Protects from sudden rain showers and lake spray during crossing and hikes.
summer
Comfortable Hiking Shoes
Supports walking on uneven terrain along island trails.
Daypack
Carries picnic lunch, water, and personal items during on-island activities.
Sunscreen
Helps prevent sunburn from prolonged exposure on open water and trails.
summer