If you’re visiting Saugatuck for the first time (or the fiftieth), the town has a way of surprising you. There’s the winding river, the charming downtown, the towering dunes—and then there’s the chain ferry.

Yes, a hand-cranked chain ferry. Still running. Still crossing the Kalamazoo River one tug at a time.

Here’s everything you need to know about one of Michigan’s most endearing, low-tech traditions—and how to make it part of your day on the water.

What Is the Chain Ferry, Exactly?

The Saugatuck Chain Ferry is the last of its kind in the country. It connects downtown Saugatuck to the east bank of the Kalamazoo River, offering a shortcut to Mount Baldhead Park and Oval Beach.

What makes it special? It’s human-powered. The crew literally cranks the ferry across the river using a set of underwater chains—no motors, no fuel, just good old-fashioned elbow grease. You’ll probably hear the sound of the chain before you even see it.

When and Where to Catch It

The ferry typically runs Memorial Day through Labor Day, weather permitting. Service usually starts around 9:00 AM and runs until dusk, with breaks during slow periods or storms. It departs from a small dock near Wicks Park in downtown Saugatuck. Just look for the bright white ferry and a small crowd waiting with ice cream in hand.

Tickets are inexpensive (a few dollars per person), and the ride itself takes just a few minutes. It’s walk-up only and no reservations needed.

Why Ride It?

Aside from being one of the quirkiest and most Instagram-worthy things to do in town, it’s also surprisingly practical. Taking the ferry saves you a long loop around the Blue Star Highway if you’re heading to the dunes, Oval Beach, or hiking trails.

Plus, it’s just fun. Especially with kids. Especially if you’ve never ridden a boat pulled by chains. Especially if you enjoy things that are a little weird and a lot charming.

Make a Day of It

The ferry’s a fun little piece of local history—and it’s not a bad way to cross the river if you’re heading toward Mount Baldhead or Oval Beach on foot. Most people ride it once just to say they did. (And yes, we wave at the ferry every time we pass it.)

If you're spending the afternoon in town, it pairs well with just about anything: ice cream on Butler Street, a walk along the harbor, or a slow sail down the river and out onto Lake Michigan (we're partial to that last one, obviously). Whether you ride the ferry before or after your time on the water, it's one more way to enjoy the pace of Saugatuck—which is to say, unhurried and just a little offbeat.

Insider Tips

• Cash is helpful—sometimes credit isn’t accepted.

• Check the weather—strong winds or rain can pause service.

• Go early or late for fewer crowds and golden-hour light.

• Ask questions—the crew is usually happy to share how it all works.

One More Thing…

If you’re lucky, you might even be asked to help crank.

And if that’s not the perfect little Saugatuck moment, we don’t know what is.