We love when all our customers make it to the island without a hitch, but we understand that transportation can sometimes be tricky or confusing, especially for first-time guests. To help ensure you reach your much-needed vacation without stress, we’ve created this guide.
Must Read:
Before heading to The Hideaway, be sure to check out our must-know Traveling by Ferry guide. We’ve answered all the common questions you may have, but if you feel there’s something we missed, don’t hesitate to contact us. We’ll be happy to assist you with any part of the process to make your journey as smooth as possible!
Please Note:
For any questions regarding ferry reservations, your vehicle, or specific timing, please contact Plaunt Transportation directly. (Plaunt is a third-party service.)
The Ferry (Plaunt Transportation)
The story behind Plaunt Transportation: Passed down from Generation to Generation, our transportation service has been in business since 1932. We can take passengers, trailers, trucks, freight, motorcycles, and other motor homes. Our goal is to meet as many of our customer’s needs as possible, pick-up and delivery of goods from area merchants, you name it, we’ve bought it and delivered it to somebody on the island indoor & outdoor parking warehouse for storage freight forwarding from all shippers.
Key Information
Address: 412 Water Street Cheboygan, MI 49721
Phone Number: (231) 627-2354
E-mail: plaunttransportation@gmail.com
Facebook: Facebook.com/plaunttransportation
Website: Plaunttransportation.com/
Schedule: Plaunttransportation.com/schedule
Rates: Plaunttransportation.com/rates-1
Travel
How long is the trip?
The trip is 45 minutes.
When are Plaunts’ official dates?
Plaunts operates from May 1st to November 30th.
Can the ferry operate outside of these dates?
Yes, the ferry may operate before or after the official dates, depending on the weather. Contact Plaunts for more information.
How big is the boat?
The boat is 95 feet long and 36 feet wide.
Is there a bathroom or sitting area on the boat?
There is no public bathroom on the boat. However, there is a bathroom at the Plaunts office. Be sure to use it if needed.
What if I am a walk-on?
If you’re a walk-on passenger, you will have to stand on the boat. Since the ride is especially beautiful, we recommend bringing a coat as it can be cold or windy.
Is there a spot to sit if I don’t bring my vehicle?
Yes, Plaunts offers a cabin area where you can sit if you don’t want to stand the whole time or need to get out of the weather. However, pets are not allowed in this area.
What happens if I come without a vehicle?
We recommend bringing your own vehicle, as it allows you to explore the island at your own pace. We offer free parking for our guests.
If you choose not to bring your own vehicle, we offer free pick-up from the dock and free shuttles to certain parts of the island, depending on the time.
You may have to pay for parking in Cheboygan, depending on where you park. Plaunts also offers paid parking in our lot.
What if I don’t make my reservation on time?
If you’re running late, make sure to call Plaunts to see if there’s another boat you can get on. Also, please call The Hideaway to let us know, especially if you have a scheduled pick-up from us.
Will the ferry leave without me?
Yes, the ferry runs on a very strict schedule and leaves at the scheduled time, even if you have a reservation.
What if the ferry isn’t there when I arrive?
Sometimes, the ferry runs behind schedule. If you show up and the ferry isn’t there yet, please be patient. If you’re concerned, ask the front office at Plaunts for an updated arrival time.
How fast is the boat?
The boat travels at under 10 miles per hour. The trip takes roughly 45 minutes one way.
Does the boat travel during bad weather?
No, we recommend always checking Plaunts’ Facebook page or calling to see if the ferry has been canceled, especially if you’re traveling from a distance.
Note: If the ferry does not operate on the day of your reservation, you may qualify for a partial or full refund, or a gift certificate for future use.
Can I take my own boat to Bois Blanc Island?
Yes, you may bring your personal boat to Bois Blanc Island. However, you will need to dock at the Cheboygan public dock. The Bois Blanc Township Marine can accommodate vessels up to 35 feet in length.
Note: You will need to pay for parking at the Cheboygan public dock and for docking your boat at the Bois Blanc Township Marine. Please contact Bois Blanc Township for more information.
How do we get to The Hideaway from the dock?
When you leave the dock, turn right and continue straight. We are located on the left side, about 5 minutes (a mile and a half) from the dock. If you pass the tavern, you’ve gone too far.
What do I need to do when arriving at The Hideaway?
Park on the side across from the main door, where the other guests park. You’re welcome to walk in and ask for the innkeeper, Adam, as he may be busy. Alternatively, you can call ahead for him to greet you outside and show you to your room.
How fast can I drive?
All roads on the island are dirt (well-graded), and some are seasonal. The speed limit is 25 mph across the entire island.
Tickets
Where do I buy my tickets?
Tickets can be purchased in person at the office.
Where is the office located?
The office is located in Plaunts’ front office building, by the road. You can easily walk there from the parking lot. If you can’t find it, please ask one of the employees near the ferry.
How much are the tickets?
Tickets are sold as round-trip passes.
Plaunts offers a variety of ticket options to meet everyone’s needs. Options include walk-ins, vehicles, bulk tickets, trailers, ATVs, bikes, and more.
To view all available options, please visit Plaunts’ rates page.
What happens if I lose my ticket?
After purchasing your tickets, make sure to keep the other half safe, as it serves as your return ticket to Cheboygan.
If you lose your return ticket, please contact Plaunts directly.
Reservations
Do I need a reservation?
Walk-on passengers do not need a reservation, but we highly recommend making a reservation for vehicles.
Note: If you don’t make a reservation for your vehicle, you may have to wait for the next boat or for a longer period to get on the ferry.
Where can I find the ferry schedule?
You can find the schedule on Plaunts’ website.
How do I make a reservation?
Call Plaunts’ office, and they can add you to their schedule.
Do the ferry and The Hideaway have the same owner?
No, we are separate businesses, but we work closely together to ensure our guests get to and from the island. Please note, if you book a room at The Hideaway, it does not guarantee you a reservation on the ferry, especially if you book last minute with a vehicle.
How far in advance do I need to make a reservation for the ferry?
- With a vehicle: If you’re bringing a vehicle, you need to book at least two weeks in advance (sooner is better) to help ensure a spot.
- Walk-ons (no vehicle): If you’re just walking on, you can typically do so without a reservation on the same day. However, we recommend making a reservation just to be safe.
Note: The ferry can get very busy during peak season, and there may not be room for you if you book last minute. The Hideaway is not responsible if you are unable to get a reservation for the ferry at the last minute.
Arrival Time
What time should I get there?
- With vehicles: Make sure to arrive 30 minutes before your reservation, as it takes time to load each vehicle. Plaunts leaves at the scheduled time, and if you’re not on time, you may miss your chance to make it to the island for your reservation at The Hideaway.
- Walk-ons: There’s no need for a reservation if you’re walking on. However, please arrive 15 minutes before your scheduled departure time. This will allow time to buy your tickets at the office, park your car, and ensure the boat stays on schedule.
Note: We recommend allowing extra time for travel to Plaunts to account for unexpected stops, construction, or traffic. The Hideaway is not responsible for guests who miss their reservation to the island and will not honor missed reservations.
Loading Vehicles
How does the loading process work?
- To Bois Blanc Island: Park in a spot in the paved city lot, and a Plaunts Transportation employee will be with you shortly to load your vehicle.
- To Cheboygan: Park in a spot on the causeway, and a Plaunts Transportation employee will be with you shortly to load your vehicle.
Note: A Plaunts employee will load your car onto the boat, but you are responsible for driving your own vehicle off the boat. A Plaunts employee will assist in guiding you off the boat, so please wait your turn to exit.
Parking
Yes, Plaunts offers paid parking. To view all available options, please visit Plaunts rates.
Restrictions
Are there any restrictions regarding carrying gasoline, diesel fuel, or propane on the boat?
Yes. The following restrictions apply:
- Only two 6-gallon cans of gasoline, two 20-pound propane cylinders, or one of each are allowed per vehicle.
- There are no restrictions regarding diesel fuel.
If you have any other questions about transportation by ferry, be sure to contact Plaunts.