Sonny S Inter-Island Ferry

Discover the Historic Legacy of the Sonny-S Line

The Sonny-S Boat Line has been a vital link between Middle Bass Island and Put-In-Bay since its launch in 1948. Commissioned by Middle Bass resident Charles Schneider and constructed by J.W. Nolan and Sons of Erie, Pennsylvania, this 50.5-foot steel vessel was initially built to replace older wooden commercial fishing boats. For over three decades, the Sonny-S operated as a commercial fishing vessel in the Ohio waters
of Lake Erie, primarily targeting perch. In 1961, it transitioned to passenger ferry service, providing transportation between Middle Bass Island and downtown Put-In-Bay. By the early 1980s, the Sonny-S retired from commercial fishing to focus exclusively on ferrying passengers between these two Lake Erie islands. Today, the third and fourth generations of the Schneider family continue this legacy, offering seasonal passenger ferry services. After a brief hiatus for major hull restoration, the Sonny-S resumed operations in May 2023, continuing its tradition of connecting these vibrant island communities.

Powered by tradition: More details about the vessel and its engine

Powered by a 228 hp Detroit Diesel 671N engine, the Sonny-S is renowned for its distinctive sound, familiar to island residents and visitors alike. The vessel is inspected by the U.S. Coast Guard (USCG), and all captains hold USCG licenses, ensuring safety and reliability for all passengers.

Schedule and Ticket Prices

The ferry operates seasonally, typically from mid-May through mid-September, with departures every hour on the half-hour from Middle Bass and on the hour from Put-in-Bay. Here you can find the Sonny-s Ferry Schedule.

Fares are as follows:

  • Adult (13+): $10
  • Child (6-12): $5
  • Baby (0-5): Free
  • Bike: $5

Payments can be made online using various methods, including Visa, Mastercard, American Express, Discover, Apple Pay, and Google Pay. In-person payments are cash only.
The following elements may be prone to change. Please check the official website of Sonny-S Boat Line.

Where can you find the Sonny-S Line?

The Sonny-S departs from the following locations:

  • Middle Bass Dock: 1970 Fox Road, Middle Bass, OH 43446
  • Put-in-Bay Dock: 341 Bayview Ave, Put-in-Bay, OH 43456
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