Set sail on Lake Michigan with Manitowoc Shoreline Cruises and enjoy scenic views, live entertainment, and onboard amenities. Perfect for all ages seeking a fun, maritime escape.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
2 hours
Fitness Level
No physical fitness required, suitable for all ages and mobility levels
Wildlife
History
Manitowoc has a storied maritime history, serving as a vital port since the 19th century and once home to a major shipbuilding industry.
Conservation
The cruise emphasizes eco-friendly practices by minimizing environmental impact and promoting awareness of Lake Michigan’s ecosystem.
SS Badger
Set sail on Lake Michigan with Manitowoc Shoreline Cruises and enjoy scenic views, live entertainment, and onboard amenities. Perfect for all ages seeking a fun, maritime escape.
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.
Home Port
Ludington, MI
Operates from Ludington, Michigan
Trip Lengths
2-hour & 4-hour
Short cruises and longer crossings
Family Friendly
All ages
Activities and entertainment for families
Onboard Amenities
Shop, Food, Entertainment
Boutique, movie theater, staterooms
Choose a 2-hour shoreline cruise or a 4-hour Ludington–Manitowoc crossing — book early to secure preferred sailings.
Arrive early for the best seating
Get to the dock at least 15 minutes before departure to secure ideal spots and enjoy the onboard amenities.
Dress for the weather
Bring layers and rain gear if necessary; the lake breezes can be cool even on sunny days.
Bring a camera or smartphone
Capture scenic shots and wildlife sightings from the deck without missing the experience.
Plan ahead for food and drinks
Enjoy the bar service but consider bringing snacks for longer trips or after the cruise.
Warm layers
Layer up to stay comfortable as lake breezes can be cool, especially in spring and fall.
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Camera or smartphone
Capture the scenic views and memorable moments during the cruise.
Sunscreen
Protect your skin from sun exposure, especially on open decks.
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Hat and sunglasses
Shield your eyes from the sun and enhance your viewing comfort.
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