Lake Champlain Transportation Company is a ferry service provider in South Burlington, Vermont, operating two seasonal ferry routes across Lake Champlain, connecting Grand Isle, Vermont, to Plattsburgh, New York, and Charlotte, Vermont, to Essex, New York. The company has offered safe, reliable, and friendly transportation since 1826, serving both local commuters and regional visitors. With year-round crossings and no reservations required, the service supports daily travel and tourism across the lake. The company also maintains a marina at its downtown Burlington location, providing docking and access to the waterfront. It holds a 4.2-star rating based on customer reviews, reflecting consistent service and customer satisfaction.
The company traces its roots to 1826, when it began facilitating commercial and passenger travel across Lake Champlain during a time when the lake was a vital transportation corridor. At the height of the lumber trade in the 19th century, ferries transported goods and people, laying the foundation for modern maritime operations. Today, the fleet includes the M/V Valcour, a vessel built in 1947 and re-powered for efficiency, and the M/V Grand Isle, commissioned in 1953. Employees often stay with the company for over 18 years, reflecting a strong culture of stability and commitment within the maritime industry. The company supports local employment through roles such as dockmasters and deckhands, emphasizing safety, customer service, and operational readiness.
Located on King St Dock in downtown Burlington, the company sits just a short walk from key city landmarks. It is about 0.1 miles from the Burlington train station, within easy reach of Main Street and Battery Street, both major thoroughfares. The site is also near Perkins Pier Park and Perkins Pier, popular public spaces, and close to the public artwork The Lone Sailor, a well-known feature along the waterfront.
Lake Champlain Transportation Company is recognized for its long-standing reliability and deep roots in the region’s transportation history. Its consistent online presence, clear service information, and well-maintained website ensure that travelers can access schedules, routes, and updates with ease. The company’s enduring operation since 1826 underscores its trusted role in connecting Vermont and New York across one of the region’s most iconic waterways.
As a cornerstone of regional mobility, the company continues to serve South Burlington and the broader Lake Champlain area with dependable, time-tested ferry service.