RANGER III FAQ

 

Reservations

When will reservations be taken for the 2024 season?

January 2, 2024

How do I make reservations?

Check out the Ranger III Reservations page.

Can I make reservations for canoes, kayaks, and boats?

  • Yes, there are only 4 motorboat spaces on the ship's deck available for each voyage.
  • There are many spaces for canoes and kayaks <18 feet.

Will I receive a reservation confirmation email?

Yes, you will receive two emails confirmations:

  • A pay.gov payment receipt (received same day as reservation).
  • A Ranger III confirmation email with Reservation Number and voyage details. (winter processing can take 1-2 months).

If I need to cancel a confirmed trip, will I receive a full refund?

No. Ranger III please review its long-established refund policy.
However, if the park must cancel a voyage, a full refund will occur.

If availabilty is full, will there be a waiting list?

No. You are welcome to check the most recent availability updates.

 

Arriving for Ferry Departure

Will masks be required in the ferry terminal?

When there is low or moderate transmission rate of COVID-19, masks are not required in Isle Royale buildings or aboard Ranger III . If transmission rate increases to high, masks will be required.

Will there be any self screening requirements?

On the day of your Ranger III travel, if you are exhibiting any of the standard COVID-19 symptoms or are generally feeling unwell, please consider not traveling.

What will be the check-in process?

  1. Before arrival, try to have all items ready to go (baggage to be stowed and carry-on items prepared).
  2. Required Arrival Times:
    • Passengers Transporting a Boat: 7:30 am
    • Passengers Transporting a Canoe or Kayak: 7:45 am
    • All Passengers: 8:00 am
  3. Check-in will occur in your vehicle.
    • Photo ID is required to pickup tickets.
    • Park entrance fees will be checked.
  4. Follow directions provided by rangers during the check-in process.
  5. Most baggage will be stowed. Everyone may carry-on necessary items for the onboard voyage.

When can passengers board?

Boarding begins at 8:15 am for a prompt 9:00 am departure. Tickets for all passengers are required.

When will passenger boarding end?

Boarding ends at 8:45 am. If not aboard at that time, you will not be permitted aboard.

Will there be assigned passenger seating?

No. You will select your seating area when you board.

Is there parking?

Yes, free parking at the Houghton Visitor Center ferry terminal. Please review the Departure Preparation page.

 

During the Voyage

Are masks required?

When there is low or moderate transmission rate of COVID-19, masks are not required in Isle Royale buildings or aboard Ranger III . If transmission rate increases to high, masks will be required.

Will Ranger III be cleaned regularly?

  • After each trip, Ranger III crew clean the entire vessel.
  • During voyages, additional cleaning is performed when the situation requires.

Will I be able to walk around Ranger III?

Yes.

What if I become seasick?

Please alert a Ranger III crew member. They will assist you and provide you with the best advice for the current voyage conditions. You may request a "convience bag."

Will staterooms be available?

No.

Will the Ranger III Grill be available?

No. Passengers must bring their own food and drink.


Will I be able to smoke aboard Ranger III?

Smoking is permitted in the desiginated area (lower outside aft deck) while underway.

 

Disembarking

What is the disembarking procedure?

  • Passengers may not disembark until instructed by Ranger III staff. Please be watchful of operations and any directions from staff.
  • Baggage pick-up will have a defined waiting line overseen by park staff.
 

Last updated: August 14, 2024

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Contact Info

Mailing Address:

800 East Lakeshore Drive
Houghton, MI 49931

Phone:

906 482-0984

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