Frequently Asked Questions About Miller Ferries/Put-In-Bay
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Frequently Asked Questions about Miller Ferries Put-in-Bay and Middle Bass Island, Ohio Overview of Miller Boat Line Miller Boat Line has four drive-on, drive-off ferries, capable of carrying up to 500 passengers, or up to 26 vehicles. We are the only scheduled means of carrying vehicles to Put-in-Bay (South Bass Island) and the only scheduled ferry service to Middle Bass Island. How do I reach Miller Boat Line? Ferries depart from Catawba, a peninsula about half way between Cleveland and Toledo, Ohio. Directions: End of Rt. 53 N. off Rt. 2. (GPS address: 5174 E. Water St., Port Clinton, Ohio). How long is the ferry ride? From Catawba to Put-in-Bay, the trip is under 20 minutes, and on a clear day you’ll be able to see about six islands, including a Canadian island. From Catawba to Middle Bass Island, the trip is 45 minutes, and you’ll see not only several islands, but get an up close look at the “Ship Home” (privately owned) on West Shore, plus a scenic ride past the harbor of Put-in-Bay and Gibraltar Island. Should I bring my car to the island? For day trips, most people leave their vehicles on the mainland. We have several acres of free parking. Once you reach Miller Boat Line’s Lime Kiln Dock, there are several transportation options, including bike and golf cart rental, taxis, and buses. Travelers can bring a vehicle to the island and back on the same day, within Miller Boat Line guidelines. Because of higher traffic volume, we cannot round trip vehicles on Sundays or holiday Mondays. Longer car lines can be expected on Fridays heading to Put-in-Bay and on Sundays or holiday Mondays leaving Put-in-Bay. People who have difficulty walking or people who are staying overnight may wish to bring a vehicle. Please see www.MillerFerry.com for vehicle tips or call 800-500-2421. Where should we park if we come as a foot passenger? We offer five free parking areas near the Catawba ferry dock. There are several pay lots nearby also. Parking is available for day, overnight or longer. Where does the ferry dock on Put-in-Bay? We dock at the Lime Kiln Dock, two miles south of the town. You’ll find transportation rental options when you arrive, plus a bike path to town. Are there events and attractions that are family friendly? Nature camps, art classes, swimming/sailing classes, music fests, pirate fest, historic weekend, are among the numerous family/kid events. Family sites include caves, campgrounds, fishing piers, tours, two family amusement centers, walking paths, butterfly house, putt-putt, harbor cruises, aquatic center, lighthouse, playgrounds, and more. See our Kid’s Page for budget friendly and free sites. What other activities are there for couples and adults? The island has plenty of live entertainment and enjoyment of the outdoors is found daily throughout the summer and early fall. Put-in-Bay offers winery tours, historic home tours, charter fishing, several eateries and bars, special events, vintage tug cruise, day spa, camping, and more. Packages for couples and girlfriend's getaways are also offered through Miller Boat Line. Lake Erie features some spectacular sunsets! -more- Can I bring my pet on the ferry? Yes. Pets need to be on a leash or in a pet cage and stay on the lower deck. Dogs ride free. How do I find lodging? See www.MillerFerry.com and call the lodging locator service at 800-441-1271. You’ll find cottages, hotels, B & B’s and camping on Put-in-Bay. Is there anywhere tourists can access the water without a boat on any of the islands? Do any of the islands have public beaches? South Bass Island State Park has a stone beach which is open to the public (we suggest you bring water shoes). The island also offers water access through kayaks, jet skis, boardwalk water taxis and parasailing trips. You can fish at the Aquatic Center or State Park pier. Middle Bass Island also has beaches. Put-in-Bay/South Bass Island, what’s the difference? The village is called Put-in-Bay and is located on South Bass Island. However, most residents simply call the whole island Put-in-Bay. What do we do if there’s an emergency? Yes, 911 is the emergency number for police and for EMS. There’s a paramedic and first response team operating 24 hours a day on Put-in-Bay. Medical emergencies may be LifeFlighted via helicopter. Map of Put-in-Bay Put-in-Bay Chamber of Commerce Visitor Information and Island Guide, www.VisitPutinBay.com ### For additional media inquiries and high resolution photos, contact Julene Market at 419-285-2421(x23), [email protected] .