Miller Ferry

Miller Ferry – The Best Way to Get to Put-in-Bay and Middle Bass Island

If you’re planning a trip to South Bass or Middle Bass Island, the Miller Ferry is your go- to option. Operating out of Port Clinton, Ohio, the ferry is more than just a transportation service—it’s a vital connection to island life. Whether you’re bringing a vehicle, bike, or just hopping aboard as a passenger, the Miller Ferry is here to make your journey smooth and enjoyable. In fact, much of what keeps the islands running—like supplies
and goods—arrives via this ferry. And in the colder months, when ice shuts things down, essential items like mail and milk are flown in.

When Does the Miller Ferry Run?

The Miller Ferry operates seasonally, typically starting in late March and continuing until December or January. The exact schedule depends on weather and ice conditions on Lake Erie. Many island resorts, hotels, and rentals follow the same seasonal timeline, making it easy to plan your stay around the ferry schedule. Due to relatively warm winters, ice formation on the lake has been slow and the schedule has been expanding in the recent years.

What to Do When You Arrive?

When you step off the ferry at the Lime Kiln Dock on South Bass Island, you’re just steps away from renting a golf cart—one of the best ways to explore the island. Cruise around to see stunning views, quaint streets, and local attractions. As you approach the island on the ferry, you’ll even catch a glimpse of the beautiful waterfront Put-in-Bay Condos.

Affordable and Convenient Travel

The Miller Ferry is budget-friendly, making it perfect for families and groups. With the ferry tickets starting at just $9.00 for adults and $1.50 for kids aged 6-11, it’s an affordable way to get to the island. During busy times, the ferry runs every half hour, so you won’t have to wait long to start your adventure. Plus, there is free parking on the mainland, which is one less thing to worry about. While you can bring your car, we recommend leaving it behind since parking on the island is limited and during peak season you can face some long lines, especially on weekends.  At the beginning and end of the season, the ferry runs every hour, so before you get on
the island, have a look at the ferry’s official schedule.

Meet the Miller Ferry Fleet

The fleet includes six ferries, each with its own story:

1.    The Mary Ann Market – Miller Ferry’s Largest and Most Advanced Vessel

The Mary Ann Market, measuring 140 feet long and 38.5 feet wide with a 7-foot draft, is the largest ferry in the Miller Ferry fleet. Designed to carry up to 600 passengers and 28 vehicles, this state-of-the-art vessel serves the route between Put-in-Bay and Catawba. Named in honor of company matriarch Mary Ann Market (1935-2010), this ferry boasts numerous features for efficiency, safety, and passenger comfort:
 Lower Deck: Wheelchair-accessible passenger cabin.
 Upper Deck: Spacious, temperature-controlled cabin with restrooms, forward- facing and side windows for panoramic lake views, and additional seating inside and out.
 Improved Accessibility: Wider stairways for easier navigation. Powered by three Caterpillar C-18 engines with 2,409 total horsepower, the ferry meets Tier 3 EPA emissions standards for eco-friendly operation. Captains Jake Market and David Bianchi led the new vessel's design and construction, ensuring a comfortable and reliable experience for all passengers.

2.    M/V Put-in-Bay

The M/V Put-in-Bay is a dependable drive-on/drive-off ferry in the Miller Ferry fleet, capable of carrying up to 600 passengers. Originally built in 1997 in Sturgeon Bay, Wisconsin, the vessel measures 96 feet long, 38 feet wide, with a 7-foot draft. In 2010, the ferry was upgraded with Twin C18 Caterpillar engines, boosting its horsepower from 1,300 to 1,430, enhancing performance and efficiency. Whether you’re traveling with or without a vehicle, the M/V Put-in-Bay ensures a smooth and comfortable journey across Lake Erie.

3.    M/V William Market

The M/V William Market, a trusted member of the Miller Ferry fleet, is a drive-on/drive- off ferry designed to carry up to 500 passengers. Built in 1993 in Sturgeon Bay, Wisconsin, this vessel measures 96 feet long, 38 feet wide, with a 7-foot draft. The ferry was repowered in 2016 with Twin C18 Caterpillar engines, increasing its horsepower from 1,300 to 1,430, ensuring enhanced efficiency and reliability. Ideal for both passengers and vehicles, the M/V William Market delivers a seamless transportation experience across Lake Erie.

4.    M/V Put-in-Bay Extension – Enhanced Capacity and Performance

The M/V Put-in-Bay Extension underwent a significant upgrade during the fall and winter of 2009-2010 at Great Lakes Shipyard in Cleveland, Ohio. A 40-foot steel midsection was added, extending the vessel's original length from 96 feet to 136 feet. This upgrade increased the ferry's capacity from 18 vehicles to approximately 28 vehicles and from 500 passengers to 600 passengers, making it more efficient for passenger and vehicle transportation. Additionally, the vessel was repowered with two 715HP Caterpillar C18 engines and equipped with advanced Deflector Marine Rudders, improving maneuverability and overall performance.
The M/V Put-in-Bay Extension continues to provide reliable and enhanced service across Lake Erie.

5.    M/V South Bass

The M/V South Bass is a dependable drive-on/drive-off ferry designed to transport up to 500 passengers. Built in 1989 in Cleveland, Ohio, the vessel measures 96 feet long, 38 feet wide, with a 7-foot draft. Powered by Twin 3412 DITA Caterpillar engines with 1,240 horsepower, it delivers consistent and efficient service, connecting passengers and vehicles across Lake Erie.

6.    M/V Islander – Celebrating 40 Years of Service

The M/V Islander, the oldest vessel in the Miller Ferry fleet, has been a key part of Lake Erie transportation since its construction in 1983 in Cleveland, Ohio. Measuring 90 feet long, 38 feet wide, with a 7-foot draft, the Islander has a capacity of 385 passengers. It is powered by Twin 12V-71 Detroit Diesel engines producing 700 horsepower. In 2023, the M/V Islander celebrated its 40th anniversary, marking four decades of reliable service and contributing to the rich legacy of the Miller Ferry fleet. For more information on the Miller Ferry Fleet please visit www.millerferry.com

The History and Growth of Miller Boat Line

In 1966, Miller Boat Livery was officially incorporated and renamed Miller Boat Line, marking the beginning of a new era in island transportation. A steel and concrete dock and breakwall were added to Miller’s Lime Kiln Dock on the southeastern tip of Put-in- Bay, establishing the shortest and most efficient ferry route to South Bass Island. This three-mile passage, completed in under 20 minutes, revolutionized ferry travel to the island.

By 1972, Miller Ferry was running 12 trips daily between the mainland and Put- in-Bay, expanding to include scheduled trips to Middle Bass Island using the ferry West Shore. In 1971, Lee Miller entrusted the operation of the boat line to Bill Market, a fourth- generation islander and longtime employee who began his career as a purser and deckhand in 1954. Following Lee’s passing in 1973, Market assumed full leadership, guiding the company into a period of growth and modernization. Under Market’s stewardship, the Miller Boat Line became a cornerstone of the island’s economy and connectivity.

The 1970s marked a resurgence for Put-in-Bay, as tourism became the island’s primary economic driver. Local residents and developers spearheaded efforts to restore historic structures like the Colonial, Park Hotel, Blacksmith Shop, Crescent, and Round House, preserving the island’s unique charm. Key infrastructure improvements followed, with funding flowing into DeRivera Park, South Bass Island State Park, and the creation of a concave concrete breakwall to protect Perry’s Monument from shoreline erosion. This revitalization, paired with the efficient ferry services provided by Miller Boat Line, set the stage for Put-in-Bay’s emergence as a top destination in the Lake Erie region. Today, Miller Boat Line continues to play a vital role in connecting the mainland to the islands and supporting the area’s thriving tourism industry.

Plan Your Visit

When you’re ready to visit, head to the mainland dock at 5174 E Water St, Port Clinton, OH. The dock is just a short drive from Cleveland, Toledo, or Sandusky. Check out the Miller Ferry’s website for the latest schedules and updates. Whether you’re heading to Put-in-Bay for a day trip or a weekend getaway, the Miller Ferry offers a reliable, affordable, and scenic way to get there.

Miller Ferry Frequently Asked Questions

What is the address to the Miller Ferry mainland dock?

The address to the Miller Ferry is 5174 E Water St, Port Clinton, OH 43452. Although the address is technically within the Port Clinton city limits, the mainland dock is situated on the northern tip of Catawba Island. The Miller Ferry is about an hour away from both Cleveland and Toledo.  Those visiting from Sandusky can get to the Miller Ferry in less than 25 minutes.

How much does the Miller Ferry cost?

Ferry ticket prices vary between one-way and round trip fares. The Miller Ferry offer 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 kid under 6 ride for free.

Vehicle tickets are $18.00 for cars, $16.00 for motorcycles and $2.00 for bicycles.

Can you bring alcohol to Put-in-Bay?

Yes you can bring alcohol to Put-in-Bay on the Miller Ferry.  However, passengers must always abide by the State of Ohio’s open container policy both on the ferry and on the island. In addition, The Put-in-Bay Police Department strictly prohibit illegal consumption of alcohol and do not hesitate to take legal action.

Does the Miller Ferry go to Kelley’s Island?

The Miller Ferry does not offer service to 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 makes frequent trips to both South Bass and Middle Bass Island.

Where does the Miller Ferry drop you off?

Once the ferry boat has departed from the mainland Ohio dock, the boat arrives at the southwestern shore of the island in roughly 18 minutes. To get to downtown Put-in-Bay, consider taking an Island Club or Put-in-Bay Condos Taxi for just $3 per person.

What other Put-in-Bay Ferries are available?

The only other ferry option that travels from mainland Ohio to Put-in-Bay is the Jet Express Ferry. This ferry leaves from downtown Port Clinton and arrives to Put-in-Bay in about 35 minutes. The high-speed ferry unloads in the heart of the downtown Put-in-Bay harbor.