The Badger Ferry Boat, also known as the SS Badger, is a historic passenger and vehicle ferry that has been operating on Lake Michigan since 1953. This iconic vessel offers a unique and scenic way to travel between the shores of Ludington, Michigan, and Manitowoc, Wisconsin, covering a distance of 62 miles (100 km) across the vast expanse of the Great Lake.
Overview of the Badger Ferry Boat
The Badger Ferry Boat operates daily from May 17th to October 6th, with multiple departures from both Ludington and Manitowoc. The entire journey takes four hours, as the ferry passes through the Eastern Time (ET) and Central Time (CT) zones.
Route and Crossing Time
- Route: The ferry runs between Ludington, Michigan, and Manitowoc, Wisconsin, covering a distance of 62 miles (100 km).
- Crossing Time: The entire journey takes four hours, passing through Eastern Time (ET) and Central Time (CT) zones.
Schedule
The Badger Ferry Boat operates daily from May 17th to October 6th, with multiple departures from both Ludington and Manitowoc. Passengers can check the schedule on the ferry’s website to plan their trip accordingly.
Amenities and Facilities
The Badger Ferry Boat offers a variety of amenities and facilities to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable journey for its passengers.
Outdoor Deck Areas
Passengers can enjoy the stunning views of Lake Michigan from the outdoor deck areas, where they can take in the fresh lake air and watch the shoreline pass by.
Dining and Lounge Areas
The ferry features two dining areas where passengers can enjoy meals and snacks, as well as several lounge areas, including an upper deck lounge and an aft-end lounge, providing ample space for relaxation and socializing.
Staterooms and Other Facilities
For those seeking a more private experience, the Badger Ferry Boat offers 40 staterooms, as well as a children’s playroom, a gift shop, a museum showcasing the ferry’s history, and designated quiet areas for passengers who prefer a more peaceful atmosphere.
Entertainment and Activities
The ferry also features free TV lounges, a free movie lounge, and various other amenities to keep passengers entertained and engaged throughout the journey.
Technical Specifications
The Badger Ferry Boat is an impressive vessel with the following technical specifications:
| Specification | Measurement |
|---|---|
| Length | 410 feet, 6 inches |
| Width | 59 feet, 6 inches |
| Height | 106 feet, 9 inches (7 stories) |
| Weight | 6,650 tons displaced |
| Propellers | Two cast steel, 4-blade propellers, 13′ 10″ in diameter, weighing 13,800 pounds each |
| Anchors | Two Stockless anchors weighing 7,000 pounds each |
| Engines | Two Skinner Unaflow four-cylinder steam engines rated 3,500 horsepower at 125 RPM (total 7,000 horsepower) |
| Boilers | Four Foster-Wheeler “D – type” coal-burning boilers |
| Average Speed | 18 miles per hour (15.6 knots) |
| Crew | 50-60 crew members on each trip |
| Capacity | 600 passengers, 180 automobiles, tour buses, RVs, motorcycles, and commercial trucks |
Fares and Pricing
The Badger Ferry Boat offers a range of fares for passengers and vehicles, with discounts available for certain groups and special offers.
Passenger Fares
| Passenger Type | One-Way | Round-Trip |
|---|---|---|
| Adults | $88 | $161 |
| Seniors (65+) | $80 | $146 |
| Active Military | $80 | $146 |
| Children (5-15) | $43 | $79 |
| Children (4 and under) | Free | Free |
Vehicle Fares
| Vehicle Type | One-Way | Round-Trip |
|---|---|---|
| Automobiles | $96 | $192 |
| RVs and Campers | $10 per foot | $20 per foot |
| Motorcycles | $53 | $106 |
| Trailers | $80 | $160 |
Additional Information
The Badger Ferry Boat offers additional amenities and services to enhance the passenger experience.
Parking and Reservations
Free parking is available at both the Ludington and Manitowoc terminals, and passengers can make reservations for their tickets, with fees for changes and cancellations.
Special Offers and Discounts
The ferry also offers various special offers and discounts, such as round-trip tickets without a vehicle, group discounts for 10 or more passengers, and other promotional offers.
Historical Significance
The Badger Ferry Boat holds a significant place in the history of Lake Michigan transportation. Launched in 1952 and entering service in 1953, the ferry was designated a National Historic Landmark in 2016, recognizing its importance as a vital link between the shores of Michigan and Wisconsin.
Contact Information
For more information about the Badger Ferry Boat and to plan your journey, you can visit the ferry’s website at www.ssbadger.com or call their customer service number at 800-841-4243.