Scenic Lake Michigan Ferry: Ludington to Manitowoc Adventure
Difficulty
easy
Duration
4 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels as it involves mainly sitting and light walking on board.
Overview
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.
Ludington to Manitowoc
All ages • 4 hours • Tickets from Ludington (MI) to Manitowoc (WI)
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About This Adventure
Experience a unique journey on Lake Michigan's historic car ferry, The Badger. Enjoy a scenic four-hour crossing from Ludington to Manitowoc, complete with onboard amenities like games, movies, and a boutique. With limited evening trips and family-friendly activities, this adventure promises memorable moments for all ages.
Travel on Lake Michigan's Original Car Ferry!
Duration
- The Badger departs daily from Ludington at 9:00am (ET). Arrival in Manitowoc is at 12:00pm (CT*).
- Each crossing takes 4 hours, and we pass between the Eastern (ET) and Central (CT) Time Zones.
- Limited evening crossings during the summer depart from Ludington at 8:45pm (ET). Arrival in Manitowoc is at 11:45pm (CT*). These trips run Thursday to Sunday ONLY.
Rates
Passengers
- Adults: $88 (Summer) / $77 (Spring/Fall)
- Seniors: $80 (Summer) / $70 (Spring/Fall)
- Active Military: $80 (Summer) / $72 (Spring/Fall)
- Children (Ages 5-15): $43
- Young Children (Ages 0-4): FREE
Vehicles
- Autos: $96
- SUV & Pickup Truck: $96
- Auto w/ Trailer: Starting at $171. Additional fees based on length may apply.
- Auto w/ Extension: $106
- Motorcycle: $53
- Motorcycle w/ Trailer: $80
- Trike w/ Trailer: $80
- RV/Motorhome: $10/foot
- Pickup Camper or Sprinter Van: $108
- U-Haul or Box Truck: $10/foot
- Bicycle: $7
The Onboard Experience
Onboard Amenities
- Famous Badger Bingo
- Shopping in the "Boutique"
- Staterooms
- Free Movies
- Video Entertainment system available on your own device
- Lounging indoor and out
- Open Deck for Walking and Fresh Air
- Board Games
- Museum
- Quiet Areas
Kids Activities
- Scavenger Hunt
- Coloring Contest
- Movie Theatre
- Game Room
- Kid's Port Play Area
More info
Free Parking Available At Both Locations!
Staterooms $57 Each Way! Staterooms are available and are a great place to catch a nap or have quiet time for young children.
Carry on Coolers/Food/Beverages Water bottles and non-alcoholic beverages may be brought on board. Outside food, snacks and coolers of any size are not permitted. Coolers must be left on the luggage cart or in a vehicle.
Are pets allowed onboard? For no additional charge, animals may be kept in a well-ventilated portable kennel on the car deck or transported in the owner's vehicle. Due to security restrictions, no pets of any kind are allowed in any passenger area. Service dogs trained to work or perform tasks for a passenger with a disability may accompany that individual.
All vehicle reservations require at least one Adult on the reservation.
Adventure Tips
Book Evening Trips Early
Evening trips are limited and popular for sunset views; secure your tickets in advance.
Dress in Layers
Lake Michigan’s breezes can be cool even in summer, so bring layers to stay comfortable on deck.
Check Ferry Schedules
Schedules can shift based on weather and season, so verify departure times before your trip.
Arrive Early for Boarding
Plan to arrive at the terminal 30-45 minutes before departure to allow for hassle-free boarding.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Bald Eagles soaring above the lake shoreline
- Seagulls and migratory waterfowl commonly spotted around the ferry
History
The SS Badger has been ferrying passengers and vehicles across Lake Michigan since 1953, preserving an important chapter of Great Lakes transportation.
Conservation
The ferry adheres to strict environmental guidelines, including using cleaner fuel technologies to reduce its impact on Lake Michigan's fragile ecosystem.
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Adventure Hotspots in Grand Rapids
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Light Jacket or Windbreaker
Protects against cool lake breezes in spring and fall.
spring specific
Sunscreen
Necessary to avoid sunburn during extended time on open decks.
summer specific
Comfortable Walking Shoes
Ideal for walking around the ferry and exploring the terminals.
Camera or Smartphone
Perfect for capturing scenic lake views and memorable moments onboard.