There are two primary routes that cross Lake Michigan by ferry: the Muskegon to Milwaukee route via the Lake Express Ferry, and the Ludington to Manitowoc route via the S.S. Badger Ferry. Both ferries offer a convenient and scenic way to travel across the lake, accommodating vehicles, motorcycles, bicycles, and pedestrian passengers.
The Muskegon to Milwaukee Route: The Lake Express Ferry
The Lake Express Ferry is a high-speed ferry that travels between Muskegon, Michigan, and Milwaukee, Wisconsin. The journey takes approximately 2.5 hours, making it a popular choice for those looking to cross Lake Michigan quickly.
Departure and Arrival Locations
The Lake Express Ferry departs from the Muskegon Ferry Terminal in Muskegon, Michigan, and arrives at the Milwaukee Ferry Terminal in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Both terminals are easily accessible and offer ample parking for passengers.
Ferry Schedule and Frequency
The Lake Express Ferry offers daily round-trip service, with multiple departures throughout the day, including evening crossings during the peak summer season. The ferry operates from May through October, providing a reliable transportation option for both leisure and business travelers.
Amenities and Onboard Experience
The Lake Express Ferry is equipped with a range of amenities to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable journey. Passengers can enjoy:
- Comfortable seating with ample legroom
- Onboard food and beverage service, including a full-service bar
- Free Wi-Fi and charging stations
- Outdoor observation decks for taking in the scenic views of Lake Michigan
Passenger and Vehicle Capacity
The Lake Express Ferry can accommodate up to 250 passengers and 46 vehicles, including cars, motorcycles, and bicycles. Passengers can choose to bring their own vehicles or opt for foot passenger tickets.
The Ludington to Manitowoc Route: The S.S. Badger Ferry
The S.S. Badger Ferry is a historic car ferry that travels between Ludington, Michigan, and Manitowoc, Wisconsin. The journey takes approximately 4 hours, making it a more leisurely option for crossing Lake Michigan.
Departure and Arrival Locations
The S.S. Badger Ferry departs from the Ludington Ferry Terminal in Ludington, Michigan, and arrives at the Manitowoc Ferry Terminal in Manitowoc, Wisconsin. Both terminals offer convenient access and ample parking for passengers.
Ferry Schedule and Frequency
The S.S. Badger Ferry operates from May through October, with daily departures and special cruises available during the peak season. The ferry offers a variety of departure times to accommodate the schedules of both leisure and business travelers.
Amenities and Onboard Experience
The S.S. Badger Ferry provides a range of amenities to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable journey, including:
- Spacious indoor and outdoor seating areas
- Onboard dining options, including a full-service restaurant and snack bar
- Lounge areas with televisions and board games
- Observation decks for taking in the scenic views of Lake Michigan
Passenger and Vehicle Capacity
The S.S. Badger Ferry can accommodate up to 600 passengers and 180 vehicles, including cars, motorcycles, and bicycles. Passengers can choose to bring their own vehicles or opt for foot passenger tickets.
Comparing the Two Routes
Both the Lake Express Ferry and the S.S. Badger Ferry offer unique experiences for crossing Lake Michigan, catering to different preferences and needs.
Journey Time
The Lake Express Ferry is the faster option, with a journey time of approximately 2.5 hours, while the S.S. Badger Ferry takes around 4 hours to complete the crossing.
Seasonal Availability
The Lake Express Ferry operates from May through October, while the S.S. Badger Ferry has a slightly longer season, running from May through October.
Passenger and Vehicle Capacity
The S.S. Badger Ferry has a larger passenger and vehicle capacity, accommodating up to 600 passengers and 180 vehicles, compared to the Lake Express Ferry’s 250 passengers and 46 vehicles.
Onboard Amenities
Both ferries offer a range of amenities, but the S.S. Badger Ferry has a more extensive selection, including a full-service restaurant and lounge areas, while the Lake Express Ferry focuses more on high-speed transportation.
Choosing the Right Route
When deciding which route to take, consider your travel needs, schedule, and preferences. If you’re looking for a faster crossing, the Lake Express Ferry may be the better choice. If you prefer a more leisurely journey with additional onboard amenities, the S.S. Badger Ferry could be the ideal option.
Ultimately, both routes offer a unique and enjoyable way to cross Lake Michigan, providing a scenic and convenient transportation option for both leisure and business travelers.