Ferry528 Water Street
Chain Ferry
The Saugatuck Chain Ferry, Diane, is the only remaining hand cranked chain ferry of its kind remaining in the United States. Diane is guided across the Kalamazoo River by a chain that is connected to both sides. It is hand cranked by trained operators and departs each dock every 10-15 minutes based on demand.
- Fare
- $3.00 for passengers 11 and older
- Children
- $1.00 for 10 and under; free for 2 and under
- Rides free
- Dogs, bikes, and strollers
- Questions
- Star of Saugatuck, 269-857-4261
Fares
| Passengers 11 and older | $3.00 |
|---|---|
| Children 10 and under | $1.00 |
| Children 2 and under | Free |
| Dogs, bikes, and strollers | Free |
You may not take any motorized vehicles on the chain ferry. Tips are appreciated for the operators.
On Board
- Capacity 26 total passengers, a bike will count as a half person.
- No smoking or vaping is allowed on the vessel.
- The Ferry will shut down for high winds, fog, lighting, & heavy rain.
- The crew also takes a 30 minute lunch break, the white board on each dock will post when they will return.
History
The chains have a considerable amount of slack built into them, in order to sink below the surface as the ferry moves away, allowing other vessels to pass without becoming grounded or trapped. The Saugatuck Chain Ferry has been in use since 1857 (according to the Saugatuck Douglas Historical Society), although the present ferry was built in the 1960’s and is owned by the City of Saugatuck. It was originally used to carry horses across the river.
Currently Diane is staffed & managed by the Star of Saugatuck, LLC, who took over operation in 2019. All current chain ferry staff are trained and certified in CPR. The operators must also be in good physical condition in order to hand crank the Ferry across the river up to six times an hour.
Season and Hours
The ferry's season and hours are set by its operator, the Star of Saugatuck. Call 269-857-4261 or check the landing's white board before you go.
