Business Details
About
Ferry Service
THE LAKE MICHIGAN SHORTCUT
The Lake Express High-Speed Ferry is here to take you, and your car if you'd like, across Lake Michigan with docking terminals in Milwaukee, Wisconsin and Muskegon, Michigan. Both terminals provide fast and easy connections to area attractions and major interstates. You'll enjoy an experience designed to meet the needs of today’s modern traveler. Enjoy unique Lake Michigan views from our outside passenger and sun decks, or relax inside in first class style seating in a variety of configurations. Our wide aisles and spacious passenger cabins give you travel freedom not found anywhere else.
Avoid Chicago traffic congestion with the Milwaukee-Muskegon fast ferry.
Details
- Wheelchair accessible entranceAvailable
- Wheelchair accessible restroomAvailable
- Wheelchair accessible seatingAvailable
Location
Hours
Reviews
4.5
960 reviews
5 stars
695
4 stars
168
3 stars
39
2 stars
15
1 star
43
What are people saying?
AI-generated from recent customer reviews
Staff Performance
Customers consistently praised the friendly, helpful, and professional staff, noting their attentiveness and care for both passengers and pets.
Smooth Experience
Many reviews highlighted the smooth and enjoyable ferry ride, even in rough weather, with efficient boarding and unloading processes.
Pricing Concerns
Several customers expressed that the ferry service is expensive, with some feeling that the cost does not justify the experience, especially for families.
Comfort Issues
A common complaint was the cold temperature in the cabin, prompting suggestions to dress warmly or adjust the air conditioning.
Food Quality
Feedback on the food offered onboard was mixed, with some customers finding it average or not worth the price.
- DLDonna LeinbergerOct 24, 20255.0This was my first time taking the ferry across Lake Michigan. The staff was amazing. I decided on premier and I felt it was worth it. There were no children in the area, so it was very quiet. The turkey sandwich was very good. I'm already planning on doing it again next year.
- ALAlyssa LokensgardOct 11, 20255.0We had a one year old golden retriever who is VERY motion sickness and we were very nervous to bring her on the boat for the first time. Overall the experience went really good. There were too many dogs to fit in the kennels on our first trip- luckily they had a pop up XL kennel that she fit in and was comfortable. Each kennel had a cushion mat. Someone was sitting next to the dogs the entire trip (from what we were told) for comfort. When we picked her up from the first trip she seemed good! First trip was 1-2 foot waves and hardly any movement. On our way home, waves were much larger (3-5 foot) and we were more nervous. She was the only dog in the kennels on the way back but the workers were really kind wrote “gets motion sickness” on her kennel so all workers were aware. They also came into the main cabin halfway through and let us know that our pup was doing good! They also give water to all dogs in the kennels- which was really nice! When we picked her up from the kennels on the way back, she was more tired and frantic with the waves, but overall did much better than we thought! When there were many dogs- we drove her in the car onto the boat and then got out of the car with her and brought her over to the kennels. When she was the only dog in the kennels- they had one of us drive the car onto boat and the other walk our dog on before everyone else and we stood with her until we had to go to the cabin. We also had the option to keep her in the car but it was hot and we could only crack the windows/otherwise had to keep them shut and preferred her to be in a kennel with the cooler airflow. Hope this helps for the first timers!! The workers are so nice and were really helpful!
- ASallen smithSep 29, 20255.0Fun experience- be aware of changes or delays if weather is bad!
- RWRoger WillrothSep 21, 20255.0Nice ride skip going around, go across the big lake
- DDDesireeSep 17, 20255.0Took the ferry for the first time today, what a great experience! The ride is super smooth, you can’t feel the water until you’re close to docking. I took a car, it was easy and there are plenty of staff around for the load/unloading process.
Frequently Asked Questions About Lake Express High-Speed Ferry
What is the Lake Express High-Speed Ferry and what services does it offer?
The Lake Express High-Speed Ferry is a fast ferry service that transports passengers and cars across Lake Michigan between Milwaukee, Wisconsin and Muskegon, Michigan, providing scenic views and comfortable seating options.
Where is the Lake Express ferry terminal located in Muskegon?
The Lake Express ferry terminal is located at 1918 Lakeshore Dr, Muskegon, MI 49441, United States.
When does the Lake Express High-Speed Ferry operate?
The ferry operates from late April to late October, running daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Check the website for specific schedules.
Are there accommodations for passengers with disabilities on the Lake Express Ferry?
Yes, the ferry has wheelchair accessible entrances, seating, and restrooms to accommodate passengers with disabilities.
How can I purchase tickets for the Lake Express High-Speed Ferry?
Tickets can be purchased online through the ferry's official website at https://res.lake-express.com/.
What should I expect during the ferry trip across Lake Michigan?
You can enjoy beautiful Lake Michigan views from outside passenger and sun decks or relax in spacious first-class style seating inside the ferry.
What nearby dining options can I visit near the Muskegon ferry terminal?
Nearby dining options include Slappy's Slaw Dog and Sandwich, Subway, Dockside Donuts, The Gooleyguk Cafe, Kalimera at the Lakeside, and The 490 Bakery, perfect for a meal before or after your ferry trip.
What nearby recreational activities are available near the ferry terminal?
You can enjoy fishing charters like Reel Action Fishing Charters LLC and Margie J Sport Fishing Charters, or visit Great Lakes Marina & Storage and Safe Harbor Great Lakes for boating and marina services.
Are there shopping and gift options near the Lake Express terminal?
Yes, nearby options include Art Cats Gallery for art and gifts, Lakeside Emporium for candies and smoothies, Lakeshore Marine Group for boating accessories, and Muskegon Inspired for flowers and gifts.
How can nearby transportation and government services facilitate my visit to the ferry?
The Coast Guard, United States, is nearby for safety and regulation presence, and the Great Lakes Dock And Materials provider offers marine and dock services that support ferry operations and visitors.