The Lake Michigan Car Ferry Service offers a unique and captivating way to travel between Michigan and Wisconsin, providing a scenic and convenient alternative to driving. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, this ferry service allows you to sit back, relax, and enjoy the stunning views of Lake Michigan while your vehicle is safely transported across the water.
Duration of a One-Way Trip
The duration of a one-way trip on the Lake Michigan Car Ferry Service varies depending on the specific ferry you choose:
- SS Badger: Each crossing takes 4 hours, passing between Eastern (ET) and Central (CT) Time.
- Lake Express: The ferry crosses Lake Michigan in 2-1/2 hours.
Reservations
Making reservations for the Lake Michigan Car Ferry Service is highly recommended, especially during peak travel seasons:
- SS Badger: It is advised to book your tickets well in advance, as the ferry can fill up quickly during popular travel times.
- Lake Express: Reservations are strongly recommended, particularly for peak travel days. Check-in opens 1.5 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Types of Vehicles Accommodated
Both the SS Badger and the Lake Express ferries can accommodate a variety of vehicles:
| Ferry | Vehicle Types |
|---|---|
| SS Badger | Cars, motorcycles, and bicycles |
| Lake Express | Cars, motorcycles, and bicycles |
The ferries offer quick and easy loading and unloading, ensuring a seamless transportation experience for you and your vehicle.
Additional Tips and Information
To ensure a smooth and enjoyable journey on the Lake Michigan Car Ferry Service, here are some additional tips and information to keep in mind:
- Arrival Time: It is recommended to arrive at least 45 minutes to 1 hour before the scheduled departure time for both the SS Badger and the Lake Express ferries.
- Vehicle Access: During the journey, vehicles are secured on a car deck and cannot be accessed by passengers.
- Food and Drinks: Both ferries offer a variety of food and drinks for purchase on board, allowing you to refuel and enjoy the ride.
Contact Information
If you have any questions or need assistance with your Lake Michigan Car Ferry Service booking, you can reach out to the respective ferry operators:
- SS Badger: (888) 337-7948
- Lake Express: (866) 914-1010
Routes and Schedules
The Lake Michigan Car Ferry Service operates on two distinct routes, each with its own schedule:
- SS Badger: Connects Manitowoc, Wisconsin to Ludington, Michigan, with daily departures.
- Lake Express: Connects Muskegon, Michigan to Milwaukee, Wisconsin, with multiple daily departures, including evening crossings on popular travel days.
Operating Season
The Lake Michigan Car Ferry Service operates during the warmer months of the year:
- SS Badger: Operates from May to October.
- Lake Express: Operates from May to October, with varying schedules depending on the season.
Embarking on a journey across Lake Michigan via the car ferry service is a unique and memorable experience. Whether you’re traveling for business, leisure, or simply seeking a scenic alternative to driving, the Lake Michigan Car Ferry Service offers a convenient and enjoyable way to cross the Great Lakes.
References
- https://ssbadger.com
- https://www.lake-express.com/schedule/
- https://wisconsindot.gov/Pages/travel/water/ferries.aspx
- https://wanderingmichiganwisconsin.com/car-ferry-across-lake-michigan/
- https://www.lake-express.com