Crossing the Straits of Mackinac in January

Want some real adventure? Travel North in January and take the chance of crossing the partially frozen Mackinac Straits on a ferry boat! In order to attend an exciting meeting to hammer out the 2011 Boat Schedules, I journeyed with the Shepler Family and their lawyer, a pretty young newspaper reporter, and one of my favorite Facebook correspondents, Ami Woods. Rounding out the pack were two energetic Sheplers employees, their deck hand and operations manager. It was an exciting trip and we even got frozen in, briefly, on the way out. Follow my journey over to Mackinac Island and be sure to enjoy the pictures of Crossing the Mackinac Straits in January!

Setting the stage, our group of intrepid travelers bundled up to enjoy a brisk afternoon journeying out to Mackinac Island, Michigan. The historic community is embroiled in a controversy involving ferry service to and from the Island, from the port city of Saint Ignace in the Upper Peninsula and the Village of Mackinaw City. I met and greeted both Sheplers, owner and father Captain Bill and his son, the Vice President and Captain Chris Shepler, two upbeat and jolly men! While waiting for the ferry to take off, the passengers enjoyed ringside seats to a Coast Guard Search and Rescue exercise in Moran Bay. After the ferry departed, they continued their training near the docks. We all shivered, watching them.

The small, winterized freight hauling ship we rode is the Sacré Bleu. The passenger cabin was nicely heated and provided an outstanding vantage point, high above the water and behind the captain's cabin. Both captains invited me up for photographs in the front and talked about breaking the ice as we transited the Straits of Mackinac. Surprisingly, they weren't concerned with the situation, explaining it would be possible to cross another day or two. We came across a heavier ice floe just off the Island itself, gradually slowing to a stop, reversing our path, and ramming ahead to break a path. Repeating the process, we eventually broke free into open water. After docking and securing the lines fore and aft, we headed out to our meeting with the Mackinac Island City Council.

Following the 5 pm session, we returned to the ferry in the early winter darkness. I was able to take a few pictures on Mackinac Island for a 90th birthday celebration of the former owner of the Mustang Lounge, Dennis Brodeur. He enjoyed a public salutation and presentation, read aloud at the City Council Meeting; however, he returned to his old place of business for a quieter, less formal celebration. The Mustang is a fixture on Mackinac, consistently open year around. Although massively upgraded, it's still the favorite watering hole for year around Islanders. Thirty years ago, my husband and I discovered their topnotch hamburgers and tap beer served in massive half shell glasses. Part of the Island season was highlighted each Fall, when their pool table was ceremoniously moved into its winter home, followed by removal in the Spring as the tourist crowds returned. Dennis Brodeur kindly posed for a photograph, although I'm sure he's long since forgotten my name!

On the return trip, it was dark and colder, but just as thrilling! Captain Chris Shepler hurried the group onto the ferry, wanting to get moving before the ice thickened any further. Check out Bree's Mackinac Island Blog for additional information and outstanding pictures. A large spotlight guided our way home. Fortunately, the large ice pile up near the Island had moved out. We were less fortunate moving into Moran Bay, trying to find out path back to the Shepler boat docks. At one point we ended up to the left of our trail, and were forced to back up and plow into the ice again. We were very close to shore at this point, so it seemed less threatening than being caught in the middle of the Straits. We all joked about our Coast Guard friends having to return for another sort of rescue. Of course our two expert captains pushed forward. With some extra maneuvering dockside, and the senior captain, Bill Shepler, nimbly climbing the dockside posts and securing our lines, we safely ended the voyage. Be sure to check out my photos of this energetic, agile senior!

In Winter weather, the trip to Mackinac Island takes about an hour, depending on the ice encountered. In order to travel by ferry, passengers must contend with winter conditions. Be prepared for delays and last minute cancellations. Later travel dates involve more encounters with thicker ice. Dress in layers for wintry conditions, and bring along a thermos of hot coffee, tea, or cocoa. Call ahead to the various ferry boat lines for specific information. The US Coast Guard designates the Captain of the Port of Sault Ste Marie responsible for official closure of area navigation and shipping, in order to facilitate the formation of ice bridges. The Straits of Mackinac is the Primary Area of Operations, according to USCG "Operation Taconite" paperwork.

Be sure to take advantage of this unique opportunity and visit Mackinac Island in the off-season. You'll enjoy the freedom of open spaces and streets empty of tourists. Just the boat ride over and back is an adventure. Contact the Mackinac Island Tourism Bureau and check out their website for winter hours and activities. Ferry service ends in mid-January, although sometimes the ice builds up as early as mid-December. When the ferries can't run, Great Lakes Air of St. Ignace is quick to provide year around air transit to Mackinac for reasonable rates.

USCG Operation Taconite outlines specific responsibilities related to ice breaking and shipping.

The Mackinac Island Tourism Bureau provides information on Winter Activities, lodging, and facilities.

Great Lakes Air connects winter tourists and Mackinac Island with mainland access, year around.