For over 75 years, Shepler's Ferry has been an iconic and trusted name in transportation to the car-free paradise of Mackinac Island. Operating out of Mackinaw City, Michigan, Shepler's is renowned for providing a first-class, efficient, and scenic journey across the Straits of Mackinac. With a modern fleet that includes high-speed catamarans, the ferry ride itself becomes part of the adventure, offering stunning views of the Mackinac Bridge, historic lighthouses, and the pristine northern Michigan coastline. The company's commitment to exceptional customer service, well-trained staff, and clean, comfortable vessels has made it a preferred choice for millions of travelers.
A trip to Mackinac Island is a bucket-list experience, but managing travel costs for a family is a key consideration. At sample.net, we are dedicated to enhancing your iconic Great Lakes adventure by providing reliable, verified Shepler's Ferry promo codes and strategic saving tips. We meticulously research the latest offers, ensuring you can allocate more of your budget to world-famous fudge, horse-drawn carriage tours, and unforgettable memories, all while securing the best possible value on your essential ferry passage.
Discount | Description | Expiration Date |
---|---|---|
$6 Off | $6 off per adult regular round trip ticket | - |
20% Off | Extra 20% Off Store-Wide on Select Items | - |
$5 Off | $5 Off Sip n’ Sail Cruise Tickets | 8/27/2025 |
15% Off | Save 15% on Your First Online Purchase | - |
Package Deal | Special Package Pricing for Groups & Families | - |
Strategic planning is the best way to maximize your savings on a trip to Mackinac Island with Shepler's Ferry.
Book Online and In Advance: The most straightforward way to save is to purchase your tickets online through Shepler's official website. Advanced online booking often offers lower rates than walk-up ticket window prices and secures your spot, especially critical during peak summer weekends and holidays.
Explore Money-Saving Package Deals: Shepler's offers bundled package deals that can provide significant savings. A popular option is the "3-Adult Package" for approximately $73, which represents a savings of around $14 compared to purchasing three individual adult tickets at the regular rate.
Leverage Military and Group Discounts: Shepler's Ferry honors military service. Active duty, retired military personnel, and their families can receive special pricing by presenting a valid military ID at the ticket office. For student or large groups (typically 15+ people), inquire about group rates which may include perks like one complimentary ticket for every 30 purchased.
Consider the "Mack and Back" Pass: If you're planning a day trip and want flexibility, the "Mack and Back" pass allows for unlimited round trips on the day of purchase. This is ideal for those who may want to return on a different schedule or take a specific lighthouse cruise later in the day.
Travel During the Shoulder Seasons: Fares are often dynamically priced. Visiting during the beautiful months of May, June, or September (outside of peak July and August) can sometimes yield lower prices and smaller crowds, enhancing your overall experience.
Shepler's Ferry has a clear and firm policy regarding tickets to ensure operational clarity.
All Sales Are Final: Tickets purchased for Shepler's Ferry are non-refundable. This policy is clearly stated to manage capacity and operations effectively.
Ticket Validity: While non-refundable, tickets are valid for travel from the date of purchase through October 31st of the current operating season. This provides flexibility if your travel plans shift slightly, as long as you travel within the same season.
Weather Policy: Shepler's Ferry vessels are designed to operate safely in various conditions. Services are only canceled in extreme weather for passenger safety. It is advisable to check the schedule and weather updates before your departure.
For assistance with booking, existing reservations, or general questions, Shepler's Ferry provides direct customer service channels.
Phone Support: The most direct method for immediate assistance is to call their customer service line. The main number for inquiries is (231) 436-5023.
Email and Online Contact Form: You can submit detailed questions via the "Contact Us" form on the Shepler's Ferry website. This is ideal for non-urgent inquiries and typically receives a response within one business day.
In-Person: For issues best resolved face-to-face, such as military discount verification or complex group bookings, you can visit the Shepler's Ferry ticket office in Mackinaw City.
Standard Round-Trip Adult Tickets: The core purchase for any visitor. Applying a $5 or $6 off promo code to an adult ticket provides direct, per-person savings that add up quickly for families.
Specialty Cruise Tickets: Shepler's is famous for its themed cruises beyond the standard ferry route. Look for promo codes on popular options like the breathtaking Lighthouse Cruises (Day, Evening, or Westbound) or the festive 4th of July Fireworks Cruise. Saving $5 on these premium experiences is a great value.
Family and Group Packages: Pre-bundled packages, like the mentioned 3-adult deal, are inherently discounted. Using a site-wide percentage-off code on top of these already reduced package rates can compound your savings significantly.
Gift Cards: While often excluded from direct promo codes, purchasing a Shepler's Ferry gift card at face value allows you to lock in today's prices for a future trip. They are valid for five years from the date of purchase, making them a perfect gift or a smart way to budget for a trip next season.
Shepler's Ferry is a family-owned and operated business that has been a cornerstone of Michigan tourism since 1945. What began as a single vessel service has grown into a flagship transportation provider to Mackinac Island, known for its reliability, speed, and exceptional customer care. The company prides itself on its modern, well-maintained fleet, including the fastest ferries to the island, making the crossing in just 16 minutes.
Beyond simple transportation, Shepler's offers an experience. Their narrated lighthouse cruises provide educational and scenic tours of the Great Lakes' maritime history, and their commitment to free luggage transfer for island guests exemplifies their customer-first approach. As a third-generation family business, Shepler's Ferry embodies a deep commitment to the community and to preserving the magic of the Mackinac Island journey for every passenger.
On the Shepler's Ferry website (sheplersferry.com), after selecting your tickets and adding them to your cart, proceed to the checkout page. Look for a field labeled 'Promo Code,' 'Discount Code,' or 'Voucher.' Click into this field, paste or type the code exactly as provided from sample.net, and click 'Apply' or 'Submit.' The system will instantly update your cart total to reflect the discount if the code is valid.
No, promo codes must be applied during the online checkout process before you complete your payment. Shepler's Ferry cannot apply discounts retroactively to completed purchases. It is crucial to enter your code before finalizing your transaction.
Yes, Shepler's Ferry offers a verified discount for active duty and retired military personnel and their families. This discount is typically available by presenting a valid military ID at the ticket office in Mackinaw City. It is generally not an online promo code and must be claimed in person.
Shepler's Ferry offers standard discounted fares for children (ages 5-12) and children under 5 typically ride for free. They do not widely advertise a specific senior discount beyond these standard age-based fares. Always check the ticket selection page for the most current pricing categories.
Tickets are non-refundable but are valid for travel from the date of purchase through October 31st of the current operating season. This means if your plans change, you can use your ticket for a later departure date within the same year, offering some flexibility despite the no-refund policy.
No, Shepler's Ferry's system only allows one promo code to be applied per transaction. You cannot stack multiple discounts or combine a promo code with other special offers like group rates or military discounts.
Shepler's Ferry's vessels are capable of operating safely in various weather conditions. Service is only canceled in cases of extreme weather that would compromise safety. Cancellations are rare and are announced on their website and social media channels. Due to the non-refundable ticket policy, it is advisable to monitor forecasts and consider ticket validity through the season if flexibility is a concern.