How to Get to Mackinac Island From the UK [2025 Guide] ✈️🛳️🇬🇧
The fastest way to get from London to Mackinac Island is to fly and ferry which takes 14h 34m and costs $420 – $1,400.
Thinking about visiting Mackinac Island from the UK in 2025? This unique, car-free island on Lake Huron, Michigan, is one of America’s most charming destinations, famous for horse-drawn carriages, Victorian architecture, and world-class fudge. Since Mackinac Island has no airport and no cars, getting there from the UK involves a combination of flights, transfers, and a short ferry ride.
This guide will show you the best routes, flight options, costs, and travel tips so your journey from the UK to Mackinac Island is seamless.
✈️ Step 1: Flights From the UK to the US
Your journey starts with a transatlantic flight. The closest airports to Mackinac Island are Pellston Regional (PLN), Cherry Capital in Traverse City (TVC), and Detroit Metro (DTW).
- From London Heathrow (LHR) to Detroit (DTW)
- Non-stop flights available (~8 hrs)
- Airlines: Delta, Virgin Atlantic, British Airways
- Cost (2025): £550–£750 round trip
- From London Heathrow (LHR) to Chicago O’Hare (ORD)
- Non-stop flights (~8.5 hrs)
- Airlines: American Airlines, British Airways, United
- Cost (2025): £520–£700 round trip
👉 Detroit and Chicago are the best international gateways. From there, you’ll connect to Michigan regional airports or drive to the ferry.
🛫 Step 2: Connecting Flights to Northern Michigan
After arriving in Detroit or Chicago, you’ll need a short domestic flight closer to Mackinac Island.
- Detroit (DTW) → Pellston (PLN)
- Flight Time: ~1 hr
- Airline: Delta Connection
- Closest airport to St. Ignace ferry dock (20 miles away)
- Detroit (DTW) → Traverse City (TVC)
- Flight Time: ~1 hr 10 min
- Great option if you plan to explore Northern Michigan before heading to the island
- Chicago (ORD) → Pellston (PLN)
- Seasonal flights available in summer
💡 Pro Tip: Pellston (PLN) is the most convenient because it’s just a 30-minute shuttle ride to the Mackinac Island ferries.
🚗 Step 3: Transfer to the Ferry Docks
Once in Michigan, you’ll head to either St. Ignace or Mackinaw City, where ferries depart for Mackinac Island.
- From Pellston Airport → St. Ignace
- Distance: ~20 miles
- Travel Time: ~30 minutes by shuttle or taxi
- From Traverse City Airport → Mackinaw City
- Distance: ~180 miles
- Travel Time: ~3 hours by car rental or shuttle
- From Detroit Airport → Mackinaw City/St. Ignace
- Distance: ~300 miles
- Travel Time: ~5 hours by car or Greyhound/Indian Trails bus
🛳️ Step 4: Ferry to Mackinac Island
The last leg of your journey is a scenic ferry ride across Lake Huron.
- Ferry Operators: Shepler’s Ferry, Star Line Ferry
- Duration: 15–25 minutes
- Cost (2025): $34 (
£27) round trip for adults | $23 (£18) for children - Luggage: Handled by staff and included in ticket price
Ferries run frequently from mid-May to late October, with fewer services in early spring and fall.
📊 Travel Options Summary
| Route (from UK) | Travel Time | Cost (2025) | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| London → Detroit → Pellston → Ferry | ~12–14 hrs | £700–£950 | Fastest & easiest |
| London → Chicago → Pellston → Ferry | ~13–15 hrs | £680–£930 | Flexible, summer travelers |
| London → Detroit → Drive to Ferry | ~14–16 hrs | £650–£850 | Road trip lovers |
| London → Chicago → Drive to Ferry | ~15–17 hrs | £650–£900 | Budget + scenic route |
🌟 Travel Tips for UK Visitors in 2025
- Book Early: Summer ferries and flights to Pellston sell out fast—reserve in advance.
- Pack Smart: Mackinac Island is car-free; bring light luggage for walking or cycling.
- Currency: US dollars are required; credit cards widely accepted.
- Best Season to Visit: June–September for warm weather, October for fall foliage.
- Stay Overnight: Mackinac Island hotels range from historic inns to luxury resorts.
❓ FAQs: How to Get to Mackinac Island From the UK
Q1. Can I fly directly from London to Mackinac Island?
No. Mackinac Island has no airport. You must fly to Detroit, Chicago, or Pellston, then take a ferry.
Q2. What is the fastest way to get to Mackinac Island from the UK?
The quickest route is London → Detroit → Pellston → St. Ignace → Ferry, taking around 12–14 hours total.
Q3. How much does it cost to travel from the UK to Mackinac Island?
Expect to spend £700–£950 round trip for flights plus about £27 for the ferry.
Q4. Can I take a train from the UK to Mackinac Island?
No. Mackinac Island is only accessible by ferry or small charter plane.
Q5. Is Mackinac Island worth visiting for UK travelers?
Absolutely! With its Victorian charm, horse-drawn carriages, Fort Mackinac, and stunning Great Lakes scenery, it’s a one-of-a-kind North American experience.