U.S. Coast Guard Cutter Bristol Bay (WTGB 102) breaks ice to assist the 656-foot motor vessel Federal Nagara in Lake Superior on the St. Marys River April 7, 2026. The cutter created a relief channel alongside the vessel to alleviate pressure from the ice, allowing for the transit to continue. (U.S. Coast Guard courtesy video)
In accordance with 33 Code of Federal Regulations 165.944, Coast Guard Sector Northern Great Lakes is set to open the South Channel in the Straits of Mackinac at noon on April 19, 2026.
In accordance with 33 CFR 165.901, the Captain of the Port Northern Great Lakes is scheduled to open Grays Reef Passage, west of the Straits of Mackinac, at 4 p.m. on April 18, 2026.
SAULT STE. MARIE, Mich. – Extensive ice in the West Neebish Channel is impacting the Neebish Island Ferry service in Barbeau, Michigan, April 4, 2026.
SAULT STE. MARIE, Mich. — Coast Guard crews continue ice-breaking operations for Sector Northern Great Lakes’ Operation Taconite on the upper Great Lakes and St. Marys River in support of the Great Lakes commercial shipping season, April 3, 2026.
SAULT STE. MARIE, Mich. — Coast Guard crews continue ice-breaking operations for Sector Northern Great Lakes’ Operation Taconite on the upper Great Lakes and St. Marys River between March 29-31 in support of the Great Lakes commercial shipping season.
In accordance with 33 Code of Federal Regulations 165.901, the Captain of the Port Northern Great Lakes opened the waters separating Mackinac Island and St. Ignace, Michigan, March 19, 2026.
