Put-in-Bay Ferry from Port Clinton: Jet Express vs. Miller Ferry

From our guest guide, updated September 2026. Hours and seasons change, especially after Labor Day, so check before you go.

Put-in-Bay on South Bass Island is the classic day trip: golf carts, Perry’s Victory & International Peace Memorial, caves, wineries and lunch on the harbor. Daytime is family-friendly; downtown bars get loud at night.

Jet Express (downtown Port Clinton)

Ticket window at 3 N. Monroe St., about 0.9 miles from our house. A high-speed passenger ferry to downtown Put-in-Bay in about 30 minutes. Parking: 49 Jackson St. main lot ($18/day) or 110 Harrison St. long-term ($11/day, cash only). Leashed pets ride free; bikes and kayaks cost extra. Boarding starts 15 minutes before departure. Book online for busy weekends; tickets are non-refundable except for weather cancellations.

Miller Ferry (Catawba)

Leaves from 5174 E. Water St. on Catawba, about a 15-minute drive. Takes cars and passengers, about 18–28 minutes to South Bass Island (Lime Kiln dock; golf cart or shuttle into town), with lower fares and free mainland parking. It also serves Middle Bass.

Which should you take?

• Jet Express if you want to land right in downtown Put-in-Bay and walk from the dock.
• Miller Ferry if you want to bring a car, save on fares or skip downtown parking.

Host tips

• Buy return tickets and know the last boat back.
• Summer Saturdays and holiday weekends sell out.
• Bring a windbreaker; it’s colder on the water.
• For Kelleys Island, use the Kelleys Island Ferry from Marblehead (cars and passengers).