[SoCal Midwest Noobie]

Just got back from a wonderful trip up north to Mackinac Island. Very beautiful fall foliage. The island was wonderful. Had never been. The weather was a tad stormy, this is Michigan after all. But once arriving on the island, the clouds parted and everything glistened. And the entire place smelled like fudge, I mean...heaven on earth lol. I am a big fan of the movie "Somewhere In Time". Everyone up there was genuinely friendly, even the grumps lol.

Getting there was interesting though. We took Sheplers from Mackinaw City. The weather was rainy and choppy getting there. Ironically this was more leisurely. Coming back, the weather was better so the boat was hitting wave after wave at points covering the view. Is there a slower boat to the island? Star Line seems to advertise they are the fastest, eek lol. All I could find was there is a pirate ship. I just love the Mitten and whatever the UP is lol.

[Parnassia]

Every vessel is different. How every vessel behaves in specific wind and sea conditions varies. Most operators are going to choose a speed that allows the engines to run most efficiently whenever sea conditions permit. Doing so reduces how much fuel they burn through which is easier on the vessel and also lowers their operating costs (which affects the fares passengers pay). Not to mention that running slower lengthens the trip. Most folks just interested in transport from one place to another don't want a longer trip, they want a shorter one.

Another thing to consider. A slower boat has its drawbacks. While the ride on a faster boat may feel bumpier, a slower boat in the same conditions may roll and wallow between the waves. This is more likely to make people seasick. Add in the fact that you'd need to spend more time on the vessel, that slower boat may make you pretty unhappy.

[Coldjensens]

A kayak would be slower

[SoCal Midwest Noobie]

I went there in incredibly choppy waters during a small craft advisory. Coming back was slamming into waves to the point I couldnt see out the window. Thats the context. Anyway thank you guys. The island was beautiful and magical. There was a lot more to it than I thought, and I'm looking forward tó io returning.

[Regajohn]

Starline bought the Arnold line several years ago and Arnold and mostly slow, full displacement, ferrys. Not sure if star line is still operating those craft though … they were big fat slow pigs.

All of the Shepler boats are going to be essentially the same, since they mostly are of a very similar design with just a few generational tweaks.