Both Put-in-Bay Ferries, the Miller Ferry and Jet Express, are running! You can find more info, and the 2025 Ferry schedules below!
Put-in-Bay Ferry Service
Put-in-Bay ferries are the main mode of transportation for visitors to and from the island. The ferry service runs from early spring to late fall, ceasing operations during the winter months when Lake Erie freezes over. Both the Jet Express and the Miller Ferry provide passenger transportation to and from Put-in-Bay, Ohio. These two are the main ferry transportation providers for fun on South Bass Island.
Simply getting to the island is part of the excitement. When making plans for your island getaway, be sure to decide which ferry boat will be best for you. Check out Put-in-Bay Events and plan your trip today. With so many wonderful Island Events like the Jeep Invasion and Bash on the Bay, you might have to plan more than one trip to PIB!
Put-in-Bay Ferry Services: Your Gateway to the Island
The ferries to Put-in-Bay on South Bass Island provide the primary transportation for visitors.
Running from early spring to late fall, these ferries offer a scenic and exciting way to start your
island adventure. Whether you’re bringing a vehicle or traveling on foot, there’s a ferry service
that fits your needs.
Miller Ferry Put-in-Bay
Miller Ferry: Passenger & Vehicle Transport
- Departure: Water Street, Catawba Island, OH
- Arrival: Southwestern Put-in-Bay
- Trip Duration: 18 minutes (about 25 minutes including loading/unloading)
The Miller Ferry is the only ferry that accommodates vehicles, making it the best option for
those needing to bring a car, truck, or motorcycle. However, since Put-in-Bay is best explored by
golf cart, leaving your vehicle on the mainland is recommended. Free parking is available at the
Catawba ferry terminal.
Miller Ferry Features:
- Only ferry allowing vehicles ($18 one-way, $36 round-trip for cars)
- Passenger-friendly with affordable ticket rates
- Runs every 30 minutes in peak season (May–October)
- Offers scheduled service to Middle Bass Island
If you’re planning to explore Put-in-Bay for a day or weekend, a golf cart rental is a more
convenient way to get around the island.
Check schedules & book tickets: Miller Ferry Website
The Miller Ferry is the only ferry boat line to South Bass Island, Ohio, that has the capacity for both passenger service and vehicles. Leaving from Water Street on Catawba Island, Ohio, this ferry service arrives at the southwestern end of the island in roughly 18 minutes. There is both paid and free parking near the ferry terminal. After loading and unloading, the total trip could take around 25 minutes.
The Miller Ferry is the only ferry that can accommodate vehicles, and the fare is $18 one way and $36 round trip. Bringing your vehicle to the island is not recommended, as there are an abundance of Put-in-Bay golf cart rentals on the island. Besides, parking at the mainland ferry dock, 5174 E. Water St., Port Clinton, OH 43452, is safe and free! Check out the full ferry schedule of the Miller Ferry Boats.
Cars, trucks, motorcycles, semi trucks and more all make their way to Put-in-Bay via the Miller Ferry to Put-in-Bay. Ferry tickets can be purchased in advance online or in person at the ferry dock. The Miller Ferry has some of the lowest fares for island transport. Ferry schedules at peak times find boats like the Mary Ann Market and the Put-in-Bay making round trips every half hour.
The Miller Boat Line, in season (which is May to October), generally runs every half hour and offers plenty of free parking on the Catawba side. In addition, the Miller Boat Line offers scheduled service to Middle Bass Island.
The Market Family was proud to introduce the newest member of the Fleet, The MV Mary Ann Market, joining The MV Put-in-Bay, The MV William Market, The MV South Bass, and The MV Islander. The Fleet carries between 385 and 600 passengers, ranges from 385 to 600 feet and has a breadth of 38.5 feet.
Get your online ferry tickets, check the schedule and more at https://millerferry.com/
Jet Express Ferry
Jet Express: High-Speed Passenger Ferry
- Departure: Downtown Port Clinton & Sandusky, OH
- Arrival: Downtown Put-in-Bay
- Trip Duration: 25 minutes (including loading/unloading: 30+ minutes)
The Jet Express is the fastest ferry service to Put-in-Bay, traveling at speeds of 40 mph. It arrives
directly in downtown Put-in-Bay, making it ideal for those who want to be close to the island’s
best bars, restaurants, hotels, and attractions.
Jet Express Features:
- High-speed ferry service (40 mph)
- Late-night departures in summer for those enjoying the nightlife
- Scenic views of the Lake Erie Islands, including Green Island, Rattlesnake Island, and
Gibraltar Island - Additional routes to Kelleys Island and Cedar Point
Parking at the Jet Express dock costs $12 per day (max $36 for extended stays). If you’re
planning to stay overnight, be sure to check the ferry schedule, as departure times change
depending on the season.
Check schedules & book tickets: Jet Express Website
The Jet Express is a high-speed passenger ferry that leaves from downtown Port Clinton, Ohio, and offers late-night service to downtown Put-in-Bay. Ferry trips on the Jet take around 25 minutes, sailing at 40 miles per hour. Add a few extra minutes for loading and unloading to make the total trip time a little over 30 minutes. Be sure to relax and enjoy the ride! Parking at the Jet Express lot costs guests $12 a day, with a maximum of $36 for longer stays. The ferry conveniently arrives at Put-in-Bay’s downtown area. In addition, the Jet offers late hours of operation during busy summer nights. Access the schedule of the Jet Express as ferry times are subject to change.
As the Jet Express makes its way to PIB, there are great opportunities to see several of the other Lake Erie Islands. These include Green Island, Rattlesnake Island, Gibraltar Island and some Canadian islands in the distance. Also, passengers will take in unparalleled views of the island shoreline and a unique perspective of the iconic Benson Ford Ship house.
In addition, the Jet runs from Cedar Point to Kelleys Island through the port in Sandusky and is the fastest commercial boat ride on Lake Erie. So, come to the Lake Erie Islands and enjoy all the Put-in-Bay attractions, the island events, our state park, bars, restaurants, and much more. The Jet Express offers an island getaway to South Bass Island (Put-in-Bay), so enjoy your ferry ride to Put-in-Bay hotels, home rentals, and golf cart rentals at Put-in-Bay to experience your favorite Put-in-Bay events.
Stay overnight at our many Put-in-Bay lodging choices, from hotels & resorts to vacation rentals, condos, and bed and breakfasts. Whether it’s your first time or you’re a regular, there is really nothing like it in the United States, so come and visit Putinbay. Sign up here for a free weekend. Check the schedule for excursions to places like the Browns games in Cleveland or special charters.
Get your online ferry tickets, check the schedule and more at https://www.jet-express.com/
Sonny-S Boat Line
- Sonny-S Boat Line: Connecting to Middle Bass Island
- Departure: Put-in-Bay
- Arrival: Middle Bass Island
- Trip Duration: Short, scenic ride across Lake Erie
The Sonny-S Boat Line provides ferry service between Put-in-Bay and Middle Bass Island,
making it easy to explore both islands in one trip. Middle Bass Island is quieter and less
developed than Put-in-Bay, offering a relaxing escape with nature trails, waterfront views, and
historic sites.
- Sonny-S Boat Line Features:
Seasonal operation (warmer months only)
If you run out of things to do in Put-in-Bay, which you won’t, or you just want to double up on your island adventure, you may want to spend a few hours on Middle Bass Island as well!
The Sonny-S ferry service is an essential link between Middle Bass Island and Put-in-Bay, two of Ohio’s Lake Erie Islands. This ferry is vital for both residents and tourists, providing a reliable and scenic mode of transport across Lake Erie.
Middle Bass Island is known for its serene environment, offering a peaceful retreat, while Put-in-Bay is renowned for its lively atmosphere, historical sites, and active downtown area. The ferry operates mainly during the warmer months, aligning with the tourist season. This seasonal schedule supports the influx of visitors seeking the islands’ unique attractions and natural beauty.
The journey on the Sonny-S ferry is not just a commute but a scenic experience, offering stunning views of Lake Erie and the islands. For island residents, the ferry is indispensable, facilitating the transport of goods and services vital to the islands’ economies and daily life.
In essence, the Sonny-S ferry does more than just connect Middle Bass Island and Put-in-Bay geographically. It plays a crucial role in sustaining their communities, economies, and the unique lifestyles of these Lake Erie Islands.
Check the schedule and prices at https://middlebassferry.net/
Approximate Travel Times to The Put in Bay Ferries from Major Cities Close by
- Cleveland 80 miles 90 minutes
- Columbus 130 miles 150 minutes
- Cincinnati 230 miles 230 minutes
- Youngstown 140 miles 140 minues
- Detroit 103 miles 110 minutes
- Pittsburgh 200 miles 180 minutes
- Chicago 275 miles 280 minutes
- Indianapolis 270 miles 250 minutes
Put-In-Bay Ferries Frequently Asked Questions
How to get to Put in Bay?
The most common way to get to the island is by one of two Ferry Boats, the Miller Ferry or Jet Express. Both operate and serve South Bass Island, where the village of Put-In-Bay is located. The Miller Ferry leaves from Catawba with the boat ride taking about 18 minutes and is the only ferry that has the capacity for vehicles. The Jet Express leaves from downtown Port Clinton, Ohio, and is only for passenger service and bicycles. The boat travels at 40 miles per hour and arrives in the downtown Put-in-Bay harbor in roughly 25 minutes.
How do I get to my Put-In-Bay Hotel from the Ferry?
Call Island Club Taxi at 419-285-5466 for great service. The Island Club taxis, along with the Put-in-Bay Condos taxi, are the only taxi providers allowed into the Island Club and Put-in-Bay Condos. When you get off either ferry one will be waiting for you as you get off the dock and can bring you to your Put-in-Bay lodging. The drivers are fun, personable, and are willing to help answer any questions you may have about the island, including recommending some of the best Put-in-Bay
How do you get from Port Clinton to Put in Bay?
If you are in Port Clinton and wish to visit Put-in-Bay, you can choose between the Jet Express or the Miller Ferry. The Jet Express departs from the downtown Port Clinton area. The address is 3 Monroe Street in Port Clinton, OH. Ferries run May through October each year.
The Miller Ferry’s address is technically in Port Clinton. However, the dock is located on the northern tip of Catawba Island. The Miller Ferry departs from 5174 Water Street in Port Clinton, Ohio, and runs for most of the year, weather dependent. The Miller Ferry is the only option for visitors wishing to bring their car over.
Is there a Ferry to Put-In-Bay from Sandusky?
The Jet Express operates from 101 W Shoreline Dr. Sandusky, Ohio with service to Put-In-Bay, Ohio. This Passenger Ferry runs from May through September with service to Cedar Point, Kelleys Island, and Put-In-Bay. Late-night service is available. Head to the Jet Express website for more details on departure times and ticket prices.
What time does Put-In-Bay Open?
Put-In-Bay is always open! The Wonderful village of Put-In-Bay and the rest of South Bass Island, Ohio is eager for visitors to experience the island history, lifestyle, and vibe any time of the year. However, the most visited times are the summer months of June, July, and August. The ferries stop running shortly after Halloween as Lake Erie will begin to freeze over. Lastly, the island is inhabited by only a few hundred people during the winter months.
What is the closest lodging to the ferries?
The brand new Put-in-Bay Waterfront Condos are the closest lodging to the ferry. They are also rated highest in terms of accommodations by Put-in-Bay visitors. Call 216-898-9951 for more information about Put-in-Bay’s luxurious waterfront lodging. You can also call and ask about the Island Club Home Rentals which are also very close to the Miller Ferry dock. Another convenient travel option is the availability of golf cart rental right inside the Island Club and the Put-in-Bay Waterfront Condo complexes.
Do the Miller Ferry and the Jet Express boat lines travel to the other Lake Erie Islands?
Yes, the Miller Ferry and the Jet Express to Middle Bass Island. In addition, the Jet Express also travels to Kelley’s Island. It does not go to Cleveland, yet. Neither the Miller Boat Line or the Jet Express Ferry. Both do travel from Port Clinton Ohio and Sandusky Ohio in the United States.
How long is the ferry ride?
It takes approximately 18 minutes to reach South Bass Island on the Miller Ferry from Catawba Island. If you are taking the Jet Express it takes approximately 25 minutes to reach the island from Port Clinton and
approximately 45 minutes from Sandusky, Ohio. No matter which route you decide to take across Lake Erie to reach Put-in-Bay island you will enjoy it. As you approach the island you will be able historic Perry’s Victory and International Peace Memorial. If it is a clear day you can see Cleveland and even Canada in the background!
Do cell phones work on Put-in-Bay?
Yes, cell phones do work in Put-in-Bay Ohio. Though the quality of service may vary depending on the carrier you have. Over the past few years phone service has improved dramatically on South Bass Island. Many of the major phone carriers have added cell receivers to the water tower downtown Put-in-Bay. That being said most Put-in-bay hotels and rental homes provide WIFI for their guests. Many Put-in-Bay restaurants also provide free WIFI for their customers.
Can you take a golf cart to Put-in-Bay?
All golf carts on South Bass Island must be inspected by the Police Department and issued a Put-in-Bay golf cart license plate before use. Any golf cart that do not meet this criteria are not allowed to be used on
the island. All golf carts on the island are licensed motor vehicles so all traffic laws and rules must be followed just like they would anywhere else in Ohio. This includes the driver having a valid driver’s license and seat belts and turn signals must be properly used. Looking to rent a golf cart? There are multiple Put-in-Bay golf cart rental agencies across the island. Book Now!
Boarding a Put-in-Bay Ferry Boat is where the experience begins! The waves splashing, the seagulls above and the sun on your face will be a good introduction into the island way of life. Then, once on-island, the golf cart rentals are waiting to get you some wheels. The only thing left is a place to stay. Staying on the island is a fantastic way to see all that she has to offer. Put-in-Bay Hotels, Home Rentals and Waterfront Condos are ideal options for lodging.
So, grab some Ferry Tickets and have an everyday island getaway!