Once you arrive at the Pelee Island Ferry Terminal - You are about a 5 mins drive to the cottage.

To reach Pelee Island by ferry, Owen Sound Transportation operates daily trips from early April to early December, with two vessels available for service.

The Pelee Islander: This smaller ship, in operation since 1960, can carry 9 to 10 vehicles. Onboard, there's a small indoor seating area with a canteen offering non-alcoholic beverages, chocolate bars, cookies, and muffins. The top deck provides a larger outdoor seating area, sometimes covered, to protect passengers from the elements. The Pelee Islander sails between Pelee Island, mainland Canada (Kingsville or Leamington, depending on the time of year), and Sandusky, Ohio. Please note that its operating season is shorter than the other ferry.

The Pelee Islander II: This newer and larger ferry, operational since 2018, can accommodate nearly 40 passenger vehicles, including buses, semi-trucks, tractors, and heavy machinery. With a passenger capacity of almost 400, it offers two seating areas—a spacious lounge at the bow and a small eating area with wheelchair-accessible tables at the stern. The ship also has a canteen selling various beverages, coffee, chocolate bars, cookies, muffins, and chips. At certain times, meals are available, including chicken strips and french fries.  On the upper deck, passengers can find outside seating at both the bow and stern, as well as along both sides. Additionally, there's a designated covered area for passengers with dogs.  Please note, to bring dogs into inside areas of the ferry during your trip, they have to be in a dog carrier or you may be asked to sit outside with the dog in the dog designated area.  There is water offered usually in that area for dogs. 

The ferry ride from mainland Ontario to Pelee Island usually takes around 1.5 hours, departing from Leamington, Ontario, from April to July, and from Kingsville, Ontario, from August 1 until the season's end in early December. However, sometimes the designated port changes due to circumstances.  Please check your port close to arrival in case there is a change.  The ferry provides updates on Twitter.  For those traveling from Sandusky, Ohio, the ferry ride typically lasts 2 hours.

Here are some important things to consider when using the ferry services:

Reservations are Mandatory: All passengers, including drivers, cyclists, and pedestrians, must make reservations in advance. It's advised to arrive one hour before your scheduled departure time. Boarding may not be allowed if you arrive less than 15 minutes before your scheduled departure.  Book your ferry as soon as possible as the ferry does fill up quickly, especially during long weekends.  You may want to check ferry availability before confirming your cottage booking. 

Possible Delays and Cancellations: Weather conditions or mechanical issues may lead to delayed, canceled, or rerouted ferry crossings. The ferry service will usually notify passengers through text or email, but decisions might be made last-minute for the safety of everyone onboard.

While ferry travel may come with some uncertainties, it remains the gateway to experiencing the wonders of Pelee Island. Plan ahead, make your reservations, and prepare for an exciting journey to this beautiful island retreat!