Walpole–Algonac Ferry
 | |
| Locale |  Algonac, Michigan Walpole Island, Ontario |
|---|---|
| Waterway | St. Clair River |
| Transit type | Ferry Pedestrian and automobile |
| Owner | Walpole Algonac Ferry Ltd. |
| No. of vessels | 2 |
| Website | walpolealgonacferry.ca |
The Walpole–Algonac Ferry is a passenger and vehicle ferry connecting Walpole Island, Ontario, Canada, and Algonac, Michigan, United States, via the St. Clair River.[1] It serves as a border crossing of the Canada–United States border.[2][3]
The ferry has existed in some form since at least 1922,[1] and is currently operated by Walpole Algonac Ferry Ltd., a private company based in Canada.[4] Since the closures of the Bluewater Ferry in 2018 and the Detroit–Windsor Truck Ferry in 2023,[5] it is the only ferry operating between Michigan and Ontario.[1][2]
Overview
The Walpole–Algonac Ferry operates from roughly 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. daily, weather permitting.[6] There is no fixed schedule; ferries run continuously during operating hours, based on demand.[4] A one-way trip takes roughly 8-15 minutes.[2][4]
As of 2024, the service operates using two diesel-powered boats: the Walpole Islander, with a capacity of 9 cars, built in 1986; and the City of Algonac, with a capacity of 12 cars, built in 1990.[6][7]
U.S. Customs and Border Protection and the Canada Border Services Agency operate ports of entry at their countries' respective docks.[2]
References
- ^ a b c Joseph, Gina (2022-07-20). "Walpole Island Ferry takes travelers from Algonac to Ontario". Macomb Daily. Archived from the original on 2023-06-20. Retrieved 2025-10-21.
- ^ a b c d Mars, Bobby (2024-08-16). "Take the Ferry, Keep Your Soul". Michigan Enjoyer. Retrieved 2025-10-21.
- ^ "International Toll Bridges, Tunnels, and Ferries" (PDF). Dominion Bureau of Statistics. 1964. Archived from the original (PDF) on 2020-09-13. Retrieved 2025-10-21.
- ^ a b c "Walpole Algonac Ferry". Walpole Algonac Ferry Ltd. Retrieved 2025-10-21.
- ^ "Company pushes for hazardous materials to be allowed on Ambassador Bridge". CBC News. 2023-11-16.
- ^ a b "Sailing Directions: Detroit River, Lake St. Clair, St. Clair River" (PDF). Fisheries and Oceans Canada. December 2012.
- ^ "Ferry Inventory By Region" (PDF). Great Lakes and St. Lawrence Governors and Premiers. 2024-07-26.
External links
42°37′00″N 82°31′24″W / 42.61667°N 82.52333°W