RANGER III FAQ

 
 

Reservations

When will reservations be taken for the 2026 season?

Reservation requests are now available.

Reservations will not be processed until April, as staffing allows. Reservations received on or before January 1, 2026 will not be processed (a full refund will be issued).

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. (processing for 2026 reservations will not begin until April, 2026).

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

If you must cancel all or part of a confirmed Ranger III reservation:

  • If the cancellation occurs more than 3 days prior to the sailing date, 85% of the total ticket price will be refunded.
  • Cancelling within 3 days or less of departure forfeits entire fare. There is no refund.
  • There is no cost beyond the standard fare to change reservation dates, add passengers, or add additional freight.
  • In the rare instance when a ferry is at capacity (full) at the time of your reservation submission, and we are unable to accommodate you on another voyage, the park will contact you directly and issue you a 100% refund.
  • If the park must cancel a voyage, a full refund will occur.

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

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

 

Arriving for Ferry Departure

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

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 Cafe be available?

Yes. Lunch and snack items are available for purchase. Card purchases only.


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: January 26, 2026

Contact Info

Mailing Address:

800 East Lakeshore Drive
Houghton, MI 49931

Phone:

906 482-0984

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