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FAQs
cherry train
What is the Cherry Train tour length?
Over 15 miles, up to 2 hours for each tour, with at least 3 stops at points of interest along the route.

What sort of weather can we expect?  How should we dress?
Lake Michigan air can be cool, even on what may otherwise seem to be a warm day! Dress comfortably in casual wear, but consider bringing along a jacket or light sweater, even in summer.
Trams are covered, but the ride is open air and exposed to weather elements. 
   

Where do I purchase a ticket?
You may purchase your COMBINATION FERRY + CHERRY TRAIN ticket at the Northport Ticket Booth - the best way to reserve a seat on board the train. You may also purchase Tour Only tickets at Northport Ticket Booth and on a space-available basis at the Island Ticket Booth.

Where is Northport Pier, and how do I get there?
Washington Island Ferry Line ferries leave from the tip of the Door Peninsula, at the end of State Hwy. 42. This location is a one hour drive north of Sturgeon Bay; about 20 minutes north of Sister Bay; ten minutes from Ellison Bay. A winding road, the last mile, brings you to Northport.

What about parking for our car? Restrooms? Tickets?
Signage directs you to free parking on either side of the highway. Restrooms, information and tickets are available at the pier.
What if we want to take the Tour, but also bring our car?
No problem. Approach the ferry ticket booth in your car, and ask for a round-trip vehicle ticket in addition to the Combination Ferry + Cherry Train Tour ticket. Many people bring their car to Washington Island to spend time exploring on their own after the narrated tour. Cherry Train Tours do not cover the entire island or stop at all points of interest. You will have an opportunity to do so with your own transportation on your own schedule, after the introductory tour of Washington Island by Cherry Train.		 ferry
What about shops, restaurants, places to stay?
Washington Island is a complete vacation community, a year-round community in fact, with a variety of businesses to meet your needs and desires. This is one reason to have your own transportation should you wish to shop, dine or visit places off the typical Cherry Train Tour route. If you stay for the night, you will most certainly want to bring your own vehicle.

What about pets on the Cherry Train?
With the exception of trained service animals, we do not allow pets on the Cherry Train Tour. (Pets are allowed on the ferry in a vehicle, or on a leash on the main vehicle deck.)

What ferry departure time should I use to meet the Cherry Train on the Island?
Since the ferry crossing takes approximately 30 minutes, board a ferry that leaves at least 45 minutes prior to the Cherry Train Tour start. If you look on our Cherry Train Tour Timetable, you will see ferry times suggested in order to make a particular tour time.
island photos

Will the Cherry Train bring me back to the dock in time to catch the ferry back to the mainland?
Our drivers are skilled at making these connections, and receive a high level of satisfaction in meeting the return ferries each time! If concerned about a tight connection, please ask our driver prior to boarding to reinforce the importance of catching the ferry. From the other side of this question, we’d like for your tour to be leisurely, not hurried, and you may enjoy a bit of time to shop, buy a snack, or just enjoy the scenery and activity prior to boarding for your return trip. Your round trip ferry ticket is good for any return ferry, any time, any day.