Discover a rugged island escape on South Manitou via Manitou Island Transit. From camping under ancient cedars to scenic Lake Michigan cruises, this service connects outdoor fans with one of Michigan’s best kept secrets.
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Difficulty
moderate
Duration
3–6 hours depending on trip and activities
Fitness Level
Moderate fitness recommended for hiking through varied terrain and carrying camping gear.
Wildlife
History
South Manitou Island served as an important Great Lakes shipping hub, with lighthouse keepers and shipbuilders shaping its past.
Conservation
Protected as part of Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, the island’s natural and historic resources are carefully preserved to minimize visitor impact.
Manitou Island Transit
Discover a rugged island escape on South Manitou via Manitou Island Transit. From camping under ancient cedars to scenic Lake Michigan cruises, this service connects outdoor fans with one of Michigan’s best kept secrets.
Manitou Island Transit operates scheduled passenger ferry and sightseeing cruise services out of historic Leland harbor in Leland, Michigan. The company provides direct access to South Manitou Island and runs an Evening Shoreline Cruise aboard the comfortable vessel Mishe-Mokwa. Available trips include a 1.5-hour Evening Shoreline Cruise with a cash bar and options for customizable group trips; a 3-hour round-trip ferry from Leland to South Manitou Island; and a 1.5-hour one-way ferry from South Manitou Island back to Leland.
Focused on delivering reliable transportation and memorable shoreline experiences, Manitou Island Transit serves visitors to Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore seeking sand dunes, pebble beaches, and ancient cedar groves. Passengers experience scenic crossings with views of regional landmarks such as Pyramid Point and the historic North Manitou Shoal Lighthouse. Trip summaries list duration, departure location, and highlights to help travelers plan a day trip, island visit, or private group outing.
Based in Leland, Michigan, Manitou Island Transit coordinates island access for recreation and sightseeing within the Sleeping Bear Dunes area. The business is featured on regional travel listings and platforms such as The Adventure Collective, connecting with visitors researching island excursions and sunset cruises. Manitou Island Transit emphasizes straightforward scheduling, transparent trip descriptions, and vessel-based sightseeing to make excursions to South Manitou Island and the Lake Michigan shoreline accessible for families, photographers, and outdoor enthusiasts.
Home Base
Leland, MI
Departs from historic Leland harbor
Main Vessel
Mishe-Mokwa
Evening Shoreline Cruise vessel
Trips Offered
3 Trips
Shoreline cruise and ferries
Operating Area
Sleeping Bear Dunes
Service within the national lakeshore
Reserve seats for the Evening Shoreline Cruise or ferries to South Manitou Island — limited departures from historic Leland harbor.
Book trips early in peak season
Ferry seats and guided tours fill quickly from late spring through early fall; reserve your spot in advance.
Pack water and snacks for island hikes
There are limited amenities on South Manitou; stay hydrated and energized for trails around the island.
Wear sturdy hiking shoes
Trail surfaces range from sandy dunes to rocky shorelines—footwear with good traction is key.
Bring insect repellent in summer
Mosquitoes and black flies can be active, especially near wooded areas and wetlands.
Sturdy hiking boots
Necessary for traversing sandy, rocky, and wooded trails comfortably and safely.
Insect repellent
Keeps mosquitoes and black flies at bay during the peak bug season on the island.
summer
Water bottle
Hydration is critical; there are no water refills available on South Manitou.
Weather-appropriate layers
Lake Michigan’s weather can change quickly; dressing in layers ensures comfort and safety.
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