mackinac Island accomodations question

[divingjd]

I can't think of anything that would be an obvious choice on the island. Most places have pretty small rooms, lots of them with wood floors, and Victorian-style furnishings. Mission Point would be quite a haul to the ferry dock with gear in tow. We stayed at the Bay View the last time we were there. It's close to the ferry dock, but I really can't imagine dragging scuba gear in there. I bet they can't either. Maybe you can stay on the island with your wife and just rent a room at the Driftwood for your gear! I would also recommend the Rec Diver. Larry and Larry would probably be happy to help you out.

 

[Oldpirate]

Mission Point is a treat but a long way from the docks. The Grand Hotel is ALWAYS the best choice, if money is no object.

That being said, I'd stay right "downtown" and catch the 1st morning ferry to St. ignace to catch the charter at Straits Scuba. Don't miss the "Planked Whitefish" at the Village Inn.

 

[sleepdiver]

I do not mean to throw a wet towel on your plans, but this last fall the man most responsible for putting the buoys on the wrecks in the Straits drowned. The Straits of Mackinac Shipwreck Preserve Association owns the buoys and tackle. We may not be in a position to buoy all or any of the wrecks in 2007. You may want to check with the SMSPA at straitsdiver@hotmail.com. We can let you know what, if any are buoyed. None of us have a real appetite for doing it but will do what can be done. Whatever is done, I do not expect as many wrecks to be buoyed until 2008. This is entirely a volunteer activity using our own money. Without enough money or enthusiasm, it is likely to be a year to catch up.

That said, Old Pirate's post is on point. You can reach straitsscuba at larry@straitsscuba.com. He operates the Rec Diver out of St. Ignace. He caters mostly to groups but often has space for singles or smaller groups. Abyss Divers also operates from St. Ignace although I am not sure he will be doing as many charters this year as last. There is also a retired DNR officer now running charters from Mac City (sorry I do not recall his name).

If you do stay on the Island, remember that the only air station is in St.Ignace at Straits Scuba. If you do more than a couple of dives, you will want to be in St. Ig anyway. That shop is located at the main Dock of Starline ferry across from the Driftwood. If it is full, there are several other motels in close proximity. I recommend the Huron that is only a short walk to the dock.

If you use the Rec Diver, you can actually leave your gear on the boat Saturday nights. Someone usually stays on the boat overnight and it is locked. Even if you do not use the Rec Diver, you will find them very helpful if you need to store your gear.

If you stay in St. Ig, the boat races do not really matter. Some St. Ig events like the June car show are a bigger problem there. The St. Ig chamber of commerce (Janet or Eillene) can tell you more.

On the Island, everything is nice but the hotels are pricey at peak season. It is common for people staying on the Island to come over for one day of diving if that is what you want. The crew at Starline is very helpful hauling your gear over and back.

Good fortune.