Put-in-Bay Ferry Boats
Because Getting To Put-in-Bay is
Half The Fun!!
The Jet Express Put-in-Bay Ferry
2023 Jet Express Schedule – The Jet Express Put-in-Bay Ferry is a passenger-only boat providing transportation to South Bass Island and Kelleys Island. The ferry boat departs from the Jet Express docks found in Port Clinton and Sandusky, Ohio. Passengers are able to park their vehicles in the large secure lot near the ferry terminal and head to the ticket kiosk to purchase their tickets.
As you ride across Lake Erie on the put in bay ferry boat, you’ll have great views of Cedar Point amusement park, other nearby lake Erie islands, and even some Canadian islands such as Middle Island and Pelee Island. From the ferry, passengers can choose to sit in the interior lounge, with relaxing seats and panoramas from the numerous windows. Otherwise, visitors can sit atop the boat on the open-air deck.
The Jet Express Put-in-Bay Ferry is the fastest way to get to put in bay and experience its excellent restaurants and bars, such as the Upper Deck and Mossbacks. Visitors will also enjoy all of the other nightlife and shopping the island has to offer. The Jet Express offers one-way and round-trip tickets, along with restrooms onboard. They depart from Sandusky as well as Port Clinton docks. Once off the ferry, you can head to the put in bay visitors center and inquire about some of the island’s upcoming events. Or, like many people do, just wing it and have a blast.
Once you get off the Jet Express, you can pick up your golf cart rental at Put-in-Bay Golf Carts, right next to Mr. Eds’ bar downtown. Be sure to reserve your cart in advance, as they are frequently sold out! Don’t forget to make having fun your highest priority as you move about the island! For additional Put-in-Bay Info Click Here.
Jet Express Savings and More Info
When you ride the ferry from Sandusky, Ohio or Port Clinton, Ohio, get more bang for your vacation dollars. With every paid ticket, Jet-Express Passengers receive a value-packed coupon sheet and savings at many of Put-in-Bay’s favorite attractions.
Deals include $5.00 off golf carts and mopeds, Children eat free in many restaurants, deals on attractions, and much more! Be sure to ask for your money-saving coupons when you purchase your Jet Express ticket, or you may now purchase Jet Express tickets online, so place your order today!!
The Put-in-Bay Ferry to Put in Bay, Ohio, where the ferry boat ride can be half the pleasure of visiting South Bass Island. Rest and relax while enjoying a narrated tour of the island’s history.
These All-aluminum ocean-approved catamarans, known as the Jet Express Ferry boats, are constructed in the USA. Crossing at speeds more than 40 mph, the catamarans are among the quickest ferries in the world! The sleek twin hull configuration slides through all weather conditions with unrivaled smoothness. The triple deck design provides beautiful viewing from an open-air observation deck or two stylishly appointed passenger lounges with carpeted decks, cushioned seats, and tinted windows. Board the Jet Express for Early Morning/Late Night Service to downtown Put-in-Bay! It’s the most convenient and most comfortable transportation to the island.
Frequently Asked Questions About The Jet Express
How long does it take to get to Put-in-Bay on the Jet Express Ferry?
The Jet Express arrives at the downtown Put-in-Bay harbor in roughly 30 minutes. In addition to the ride, you can add around 5-10 minutes for loading and unloading. The ferry is known to be the fastest way to get to South Bass Island, traveling at over 40 miles per hour.
What Happens If I Miss The Ferry?
Don’t stress! There is no need to worry if you miss your ferry. If you miss your ferry, you do not have to buy another ticket, and you can simply bring your old ticket to the ticket kiosk and ask them to change your tickets to a new departure time. Be sure to check their operating schedules on the Jet Express website, as it varies by the time of the year.
What is the Jet Express’s Port Clinton departure address?
The ticket kiosk for Port Clinton is located at 3 N. Monroe St., Port Clinton, OH 43452, and the address for the parking area is 49 Jackson St., Port Clinton, OH 43452. We suggest using Waze or Google Maps to calculate the fastest arrival route to the ferry docks.
Visit the Jet Express Website for more information regarding ticket fares and scheduled rides.
The Miller Boat Line Put-in-Bay Ferry
Miller Ferry – Put-in-Bay Ferry Passangers & Vehicles
The Miller Ferry boat line offers transportation to South Bass and Middle Bass Islands from their Catawba Island, Ohio dock near Port Clinton. Their ferryboats can accommodate passengers, vehicles, trailers, and more. Most of the supplies that keep our little island running are transported by the Miller Ferry. In the winter, essential items such as milk and mail come by small airplane to our beloved South Bass Island Airport.
The Formation of ice and weather conditions dictate how long the Miller Ferry to put in bay can safely 
operate and when they open for the season each year. The ferry boats generally run from late March until December or January. All Put-in-Bay Hotels, resorts, villas, and home rentals are open and close on the same schedule annually. Once you have arrived at Put-in-Bay’s Lime Kiln Dock, your guests can step off the ferry and proceed directly to the Put-in-Bay golf cart rentals location. Reservations are suggested as carts are frequently sold out, especially larger carts. Tourists use a golf cart to see the island and are driven like cars with all the same rules. See the different sides of the island and take in all the quaint island charm. You can even see the brand-new Put-in-Bay Villas located right downtown near the ferry docks as you tour the island.
Additional Miller Boat Line Information
Throughout the year, there are numerous great Put-In-Bay Events and Celebrations. The Miller Ferry is prepared to be your connection to the Lake Erie Islands. At peak times, the ferry boat runs every half hour. So, guests have plenty of opportunities to come and go as they, please. Additionally, the Miller Ferry Boats have reasonable fares, making it easy for the whole family to afford.
Guests wishing to bring their auto or vehicle to the island (NOT RECOMMENDED) can do so with the Miller Boat Line. We recommend leaving your car on the mainland unless you must take a car over. Parking on Put-in-Bay is minimal for cars and other larger vehicles. Waiting to get a car on or off the island can run as long as three hours. The Miller Boatline Put-in-Bay Ferry offers FREE PARKING! Check out their website for the new 2023 Put-in-Bay Ferry Schedule and updates on the latest addition to the Miller Ferry Fleet!
The Miller Ferry Fleet
Motor Vessel Mary Ann Market
The Miller Ferry added a new ferry to its fleet! The new ferry has the capacity to carry 600 passengers at once. The Mary Ann Market is the latest passenger and vehicle ferry to become part of the fleet and was added in 2022. The Mary Ann Market features brand-new state-of-the-art boating designs.
Motor Vessel Put-in-Bay
The Put-in-Bay Ferry is the 2nd newest ferry among the Miller Boat Line fleet. The boat has a capacity for up to 600 passengers. In the 2009/2010 offseason, The Miller ferry boosted the ship to add a 40-foot steer midsection. After adding the extension, the boat can now hold up to 26 vehicles!
Motor Vessel Put-in-Bay
The M/V Put-in-Bay finished its construction back in 1997. The twin 3412 DITA Caterpillar boat engines have roughly 1300 horsepower to haul passengers and vehicles. The motor vessel can carry up to 500 passengers.
Motor Vessel William Market
Constructed in 1993, M/V William Market is the “middle child” in age. This drive-on drive-off ferry can carry 500 passengers and was constructed in Sturgeon Bay, Wisconsin.
Motor Vessel South Bass
The Motor Vessel South Bass is named after South Bass Island, generally known as Put-in-Bay, OH. The boat was constructed in Cleveland, Ohio, back in 1983. The M/V South Bass can carry 500 passengers thanks to its 3412 twin DITA Caterpillar engines with 1240 horsepower.
Motor Vessel Islander
The M/V Islander is the most senior vessel in the Miller Ferry’s fleet. The Islander was built in 1983 and can carry up to 450 passengers. Twin Detroit Diesel engines with 700 horsepower power the ferry vessel in the waters of Lake Erie.
The History Of The Miller Boat Line
The Miller Boat Line Ferry company, was founded in 1966. Prior to their arrival, the most suitable way to get to the island was by steamboat. In the early 1900s, Put-in-Bay had affirmed itself through its winery culture. Tens of thousands of visitors would visit the island each year and stay at the Put-in-Bay Hotels. The largest, the Hotel Victory, featured over 625 rooms for guests and the first-ever co-ed swimming pool in the United States. Unfortunately, the Hotel Victory tragically burned to the ground in 1919.
In 1978, Willaim Market and his family purchased the boat line operation. The Market family still operates and owns the ferry company to this day. As of 2023, the fleet of 6 ferries operates and services the Lake Erie transport needs of Put-in-Bay and Middle Bass Islands. Ferries depart on the half-hour during the busiest times of the season. During the cold winter months, the ferry line has traditionally ceased operation when Lake Erie freezes over. To read more about the history of Put-in-Bay, Click Here
Frequently Asked Questions About The Miller Ferry
What is the address to the Miller Ferry mainland dock?
The address for the Miller Ferry is 5174 E Water St, Port Clinton, OH 43452. Although the address is officially within the city limits of Port Clinton, the mainland harborage is situated on the northern tip of Catawba Island. The Miller Ferry is a little over an hour away from Cleveland and Toledo. Those visiting Cedar Point from Sandusky can get to the Miller Ferry in less than 25 minutes.
How Much Is The Miller Ferry?
Ticket prices vary between one-way and round-trip fares. The Miller Ferry offers the lowest fares for any ferry service to Put-in-Bay.
One-way passenger tickets are $7.50 for adults, $1.50 for children aged 6-11, and kids under six ride for free. Vehicle tickets are $18.00 for cars, $16.00 for motorcycles, and $2.00 for bicycles.
Can You Bring Your Own Alcohol to Put-in-Bay?
Yes, you can carry alcohol to Put-in-Bay on the Miller Ferry. Nevertheless, passengers must always follow the State of Ohio’s open container rules both on the ferry and on land. Additionally, The Put-in-Bay Police Department strictly prohibits unlawful consumption of alcohol and does not pause to take action.
Does the Miller Ferry Service Kelley’s Island?
The Miller Boat line serves as the primary passenger service to both Put-in-Bay and Middle Bass Island. The ferry company frequently trips to South Bass and Middle Bass Island. The Miller Ferry does not offer service to Kelley’s Island.
Where On The Island Does the Miller Ferry drop you off?
Once the Miller ferry boat has left from the mainland Ohio dock, the boat arrives at the southwestern shore of the island in around 18 minutes. To get to the downtown Put-in-Bay area, you can rent a golf cart or take a Put-in-Bay Taxi.
Are other Put-in-Bay Ferries available?
The Jet Express Ferry is the only other put in bay ferry option traveling from mainland Ohio to Put-in-Bay. This ferry leaves from downtown Port Clinton and arrives at Put-in-Bay in about 35 minutes. The high-speed ferry unloads in the core of the downtown Put-in-Bay port.