
Saugatuck Chain Ferry - Saugatuck, MI
N 42° 39.503 W 086° 12.334
16T E 565110 N 4723185
Quick Description: IT'S HUMAN POWERED!!!
Location: Michigan, United States
Date Posted: 5/27/2009 10:23:37 PM
Waymark Code: WM6FWR
Views: 3
Long Description:The ferry in the resort town of Saugatuck, Michigan is claimed to
be the only remaining chain driven ferry in the US. It has been in
use since 1838.
Three pullies keep it in line as it is being pulled across the
Kalamazoo River. This is an unusual operation to watch. When it is
ready to cross the Kalamazoo River, the operator takes a can of
compressed air and blows a very loud whistle (airhorn) alerting all
boat traffic to stop.
It is hand propelled!
The operator turns a crank on the inside and this pulls the
ferry along the chain. The ferry goes from the immediate downtown,
and after a short distance of about 250' takes you to Oval beach.
The ferry beats making the long drive around the lake and then
having to look for a spot at the crowded parking lot.
One way fares:
Adults $1.00
Children (3+) $1.00
Infants, bicycles, and pets free
Visit Instructions:Rule ammendment as of 03-July-2008, you must have ridden on the
boat ride to log a visit. Non-compliant visits prior to this date
may be grandfathered at the discretion of the waymyark owner.
Posting a photo of your experience is highly encouraged but not
required. Please describe your experience and provide any tips for
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Very brief logs with remarks such as "Visited" are discouraged.
Such logs may be deleted.