Bridging the Straits: Michigan’s First State Ferry Service Set Sail in 1923

🚗🚢 Michigan’s First State Ferry Service Ariel made her maiden voyage

Before the Mackinac Bridge connected Michigan’s peninsulas, crossing the Straits of Mackinac was a challenge. This was true especially for the growing number of automobile owners in the early 20th century. On July 31, 1923, the State of Michigan stepped in to solve this problem by launching a state-operated ferry service. The ferry service would soon become an essential lifeline for travelers and commerce alike.

A week after the service was officially established, on August 6, 1923, the first car ferry—the wooden-hulled Ariel—made her maiden voyage across the straits. She carried three cars between Michigan’s upper and lower peninsulas. Though capable of transporting up to 20 vehicles, the symbolic first journey marked the beginning of an era where the freedom of the open road extended across the water.

Growing Demand

The popularity of ferry crossings grew rapidly. By the end of the 1923 season, the Ariel had transported more than 10,000 vehicles—far exceeding expectations. This success prompted the state to purchase more ferries. The Colonel Pond and Colonel Card, which were renamed Sainte Ignace and Mackinaw City joined the fleet. Docks were built, shorelines were purchased, and by 1927 the state ordered its first custom-built ferry, aptly named The Straits of Mackinac, capable of carrying 50 cars.

Through the 1930s, ferry infrastructure was expanded to meet demand. New docks, waiting areas, and even elevators for loading cars onto upper decks were installed. Rather than build entirely new ships, the state also purchased old Lake Michigan railroad ferries and repurposed them. Vessels like City of Cheboygan, City of Munising, and City of Petoskey were added to the fleet.

War Hiatus

World War II briefly stalled ferry operations due to gasoline and tire rationing, but the post-war boom reignited the service. In 1952, the diesel-powered Vacationland—a state-of-the-art icebreaking ferry that could carry 150 automobiles—joined the fleet. She was celebrated as the future of ferry travel with her double pilothouses and unique ability to drive on and off from either end.

Bridge Constructed

However, change was on the horizon. Construction of the Mackinac Bridge began in 1954, and when it opened in 1957, it effectively ended the ferry era. By agreement, the state ferry service ceased operation the very day the bridge opened to traffic.

The ferry fleet was sold off: some ships served other ferry routes, others were scrapped, and a few found unusual second lives. The Vacationland, after several changes in ownership and names—including a stint as the Sunshine Coast Queen in British Columbia—was eventually sold for scrap. She sank in the Pacific Ocean in December 1987 during an attempted tow to China.

Though the ferry service is gone, its legacy remains a cherished chapter of Michigan history, reminding us of a time when innovation and necessity kept the state moving—by land and by water.

Marisa Fancy along with her husband and four children dreamt of moving “Up North”. They had vacationed for years in northern Michigan and in 1995 they finally made the move.

The family was always out exploring, but with 4 kids there was some limitations on what they could do. Marisa discovered the amazing network of trails in Northern Michigan after Steve died and she would walk for miles. The trails provided her with peace, comfort and solitude at a difficult time in her life. Later, after meeting Guy who would become her second husband, she learned to golf and found another passion she could enjoy in beautiful Northern Michigan.

Marisa has been the family historian, writer, and poet for as long as she can remember. She has always loved to write and has now found a creative outlet for it other than family. You can read her articles in Adventures in Northern Michigan, Northern Michigan History and Golf Up North.