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Set sail on the scenic SS Badger ferry for a four-hour trip across Lake Michigan between Ludington and Manitowoc. Enjoy onboard entertainment and stunning views on this family-friendly adventure.
Set sail on the scenic SS Badger ferry for a four-hour trip across Lake Michigan between Ludington and Manitowoc. Enjoy onboard entertainment and stunning views on this family-friendly adventure.
Book with SS Badger
Verified experiences and guided adventures in the surrounding area.
Operated by SS Badger · Ludington, Michigan
Embark on a charming and unique voyage across Lake Michigan with the historic SS Badger ferry, traveling from Ludington, Michigan, to Manitowoc, Wisconsin. This four-hour journey offers more than just transit; it's an immersive experience filled with comfort and entertainment on the water. The Badger combines nostalgia with modern amenities, featuring onboard games, movies, and a boutique that keeps guests engaged throughout the trip. Whether you’re traveling with family or friends, the vibe is warm and welcoming, perfect for creating lasting memories. Evening trips are limited but especially special, giving you a chance to watch the sunset over the lake from the ferry's deck. The ferry is designed to be family-friendly with activities and spaces suited for all ages, making it an ideal outing to enjoy nature and relaxation simultaneously. Beyond the scenery and fun onboard, the crossing highlights the rich maritime heritage of this region and provides a peaceful retreat surrounded by the expansive waters of Lake Michigan.
easy.
4 hours.
Suitable for most fitness levels as it involves mainly sitting and light walking on board.
Yes, the SS Badger is a car ferry and can transport vehicles between Ludington and Manitowoc, but reservations for vehicles are recommended.
Pets are allowed onboard but must remain on a leash or in a carrier at all times.
Yes, there are several dining options and a boutique onboard offering snacks, meals, and beverages.
Restrooms are available and maintained throughout the trip for passenger convenience.
Yes, the SS Badger is wheelchair accessible with ramps and designated seating areas.
The ferry operates in most weather conditions, but in rare cases of extreme weather, trips may be rescheduled or canceled for safety.
The SS Badger has been ferrying passengers and vehicles across Lake Michigan since 1953, preserving an important chapter of Great Lakes transportation.
The ferry adheres to strict environmental guidelines, including using cleaner fuel technologies to reduce its impact on Lake Michigan's fragile ecosystem.
SS Badger is a historic car ferry based in Ludington, Michigan, offering scenic Lake Michigan crossings and shoreline cruises. The vessel operates regular four-hour crossings between Ludington and Manitowoc, providing passengers with onboard amenities such as a boutique, movie theater, games, and food and bar service. Staterooms are available on select crossings for travelers seeking added comfort. In addition to the classic Ludington–Manitowoc ferry, SS Badger runs two-hour Shoreline Cruises from both Ludington and Manitowoc. These shorter cruises feature live entertainment, casual dining options, and family-friendly activities suitable for all ages. Shoreline Cruises run rain or shine and include access to the ship's gift shop and public spaces. SS Badger emphasizes an experience-oriented voyage with programming that can include bingo, kids' activities, and scheduled movies, aiming to create memorable moments for families and groups. The ship's indoor and outdoor viewing areas make it adaptable to varied weather and seasonal conditions, while onboard retail and dining provide convenience during crossings and cruises. The operator recommends booking early for popular sailings. SS Badger's combination of historic appeal, varied trip lengths, and onboard amenities serves travelers, locals, and families seeking a distinctive Lake Michigan experience. Visitors can expect accessible entertainment, food service, shopping, and options for both short scenic cruises and the longer crossing between Ludington and Manitowoc. Available trips include Ludington Shoreline Cruises, Manitowoc Shoreline Cruises, Ludington to Manitowoc crossings, and Manitowoc to Ludington crossings. Onboard amenities include live entertainment, movie theater, gift shop, boutique, bar service, games, and staterooms. Book early.
Book with SS Badger