E-Bike Transportation Policy
In accordance with the latest United States Coast Guard safety procedures, Arnold TransitCompany has updated its policy for transporting electric bicycles (E-Bikes) on all ATCo passenger vessels. Coast Guard regulations govern that E-Bikes can not be transported in enclosed spaces aboard our vessels. To comply we ask that E-Bike owners please review and follow the procedures below:
On Shore Bike Storage:
Bike storage is available at the end of the Arnold Transit Company Main Dock.
- Bicycles must be registered at the Dock Ticket Office and the City of Mackinac Island before storing them on the dock.
- Protective bike covers are widely available for purchase online.
- E-Bikes are not permitted inside the Mackinac Island Main Dock Buildings
Onboard Transportation Rules:
- E-Bikes will be transported on an outside deck area whenever possible.
- If an E-Bike is being transported inside the vessel due to lack of outside storage, the battery MUST be removed from the bike.
- Batteries must be placed in a fire-resistant storage bag or an approved protective container.
- E-Bikes with batteries that cannot be removed will either:
- Be transported only in designated outside areas, or
- Will not be transported aboard the vessel.
Fire-Resistant Battery Bags at available at:
- At the Classic Dock and Island Main Dock.
- Online (e.g., Amazon)
- From various other retailers
Passengers are encouraged to obtain a fire-resistant storage bag prior to Ferry Travel if transporting an E-Bike.
winter 2025/26 note:
Beginning Monday November 17, Arnold Transit Company will utilize the Ottawa and the Straits of Mackinac II daily. Both the Ottawa and the Straits of Mackinac II have no external deck areas for transporting E-Bikes. On the Ottawa and Straits of Mackinac II, ALL E-Bike Batteries will be required to be removed and stored in a fire-resistant storage bag and transported on a dedicated cart/ wagon.
All E-Bikes transported on either vessel must have their batteries removed prior to boarding.
