What is the Channel Cat? 

The Channel Cat is a passenger ferry service that operates open-air boats between destinations along the Mississippi River in the Quad Cities IA-IL area. The service is provided by the Rock Island County Metropolitan Mass Transit District (MetroLINK). 

What is the Channel Cat schedule? 

The Channel Cat operates seven (7) days a week from Memorial Day through Labor Day weekend, with additional weekend service provided through October (weather permitting). View a full Channel Cat schedule.

Are the Channel Cat boats ADA accessible? 

Yes, all Channel Cat boats and docks are ADA accessible. MetroLINK does not require documentation or advanced notice from a passenger with a disability, and landings are accessible for individuals who use a mobility aid. Riders needing additional assistance can call the Customer Call Center at (309)788-3360. 

How much is a Channel Cat ticket? 

Channel Cat tickets are $8.00 for adults and $4.00 for children age 2-10. Children under 2 ride free when accompanied by an adult. Please note that all Channel Cat tickets are valid for unlimited all-day use on the day of activation. 

Where can I board the Channel Cat?

The Channel Cat currently has four (4) landing locations: Riverbend Commons and John Deere Commons in Moline, Isle Casino Hotel in Bettendorf, and Lindsay Park Marina in the Village of East Davenport. Learn more about our landings.

Where can I park to catch the Channel Cat? 

Multiple City or privately-owned parking lots are available in the vicinity of all Channel Cat landings. The Channel Cat does not have designated passenger parking areas. 

Can I take transit to ride the Channel Cat?

The Illinois Channel Cat landings are within walking distance of several Metro fixed-routes. Visit our Maps and Schedules page or call (309) 788-3360 if you'd like assistance in planning your trip. If you're traveling to or from a landing in the Iowa Quad Cities, you can get more information on Bettendorf and Davenport transit planning here.

Can I buy my tickets online? Am I buying tickets for a specific boarding time? 

Channel Cat tickets are not currently available online. Passengers can purchase tickets upon boarding, at Centre Station, or via the "Channel Cat" mobile ticketing app. Please note that tickets purchased upon boarding must be paid with cash. Tickets purchased via the mobile ticketing app must be used within one (1) year of purchase. 

Tickets are not purchased for a specific boarding day or time. Riders should note that tickets purchased in advance of boarding do not guarantee a seat on any particular boat. Channel Cat boats are boarded on a first come first serve basis, with priority given to riders that have boarded previously on the same day are making a return trip. 

Channel Cat Water Taxi Tickets are not redeemable, refundable, or transferable.

Can I bring my bike on the boat? 

Yes! Each Channel Cat boat can hold up to seven (7) bicycles. However, tandem bicycles are prohibited. 

Can I bring food or drinks on the boat?

Food and alcohol are prohibited on the Channel Cat. Non-alcoholic beverages, such as water and soft drinks, are allowed. 

Are animals allowed on the boat?

Pets are not allowed on the Channel Cat. Service animals only, please. 

What do I do with my child's stroller?

Reasonable accommodations will be made in regards to stroller transportation on the Channel Cat. 

Can I smoke while on the boat? 

Smoking is prohibited at all times on the Channel Cat. 

Will I be required to wear a life jacket?

No, passengers are not required to wear life jackets. For emergency purposes, each boat is equipped with a life jacket for each passenger.

I forgot something on a boat. Where can I pick it up? 

Please contact our Customer Call Center at (309)788-3360 for information on retrieving a lost item. 

Can I rent a Channel Cat boat for a private event? 

No, the Channel Cat is a public transit service and boats are not available for rental or charter. 

Where can I get more information on Channel Cat Talks? 

Please contact River Action at (563)322-2969. 

I have other questions about the Channel Cat; who can I talk to? 

Contact our Customer Call Center by phone at (309)788-3360 or email [email protected] for more information.