Lake Michigan Ferry Locations: Your Guide to Crossing the Great Lake

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Lake Michigan is a vast and beautiful body of water that separates the states of Michigan and Wisconsin. For those looking to explore both sides of the lake, ferry services offer a convenient and scenic way to cross. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the key ferry locations on Lake Michigan, providing you with all the information you need to plan your lake-crossing adventure.

Ludington, Michigan to Manitowoc, Wisconsin

Lake Michigan Ferry Locations
Image Credit: Wikimedia

One of the most popular ferry routes on Lake Michigan is the S.S. Badger Ferry, which operates between Ludington, Michigan, and Manitowoc, Wisconsin. The S.S. Badger is a historic steamship that has been transporting passengers and vehicles across the lake since 1953.

The ferry departs Ludington daily at 9:00 AM (ET) and arrives in Manitowoc at 12:00 PM (CT), taking approximately 4 hours to complete the crossing. This route is a great option for those looking to explore the scenic coastlines of both Michigan and Wisconsin, as well as the charming towns and cities along the way.

Parking and Vehicle Accommodations

The Ludington terminal offers parking facilities near the ferry, with fees varying based on the duration of your stay. In Manitowoc, you’ll also find parking options in the vicinity of the terminal, with applicable fees.

The S.S. Badger Ferry can accommodate a variety of vehicles, including cars, motorcycles, and larger vehicles like RVs and trailers. However, it’s important to note that advanced reservations are recommended for larger vehicles to ensure availability.

Muskegon, Michigan to Milwaukee, Wisconsin

Lake Michigan Ferry Locations

Another popular ferry route on Lake Michigan is the Lake Express Ferry, which operates between Muskegon, Michigan, and Milwaukee, Wisconsin. This high-speed ferry offers a faster crossing, taking approximately 2.5 hours to complete the journey.

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The Lake Express Ferry operates from May to October, with multiple departures per day, including morning, afternoon, and select night departures during the summer months. This route is a great option for those looking to explore the vibrant cities of Muskegon and Milwaukee, as well as the scenic coastlines in between.

Parking and Vehicle Accommodations

The Muskegon terminal offers parking facilities near the ferry, with fees charged based on the duration of your stay. In Milwaukee, you’ll also find parking options in the vicinity of the terminal, with applicable fees.

The Lake Express Ferry can accommodate cars, motorcycles, and bicycles, but larger vehicles may have restrictions or require special arrangements. It’s important to check with the ferry operator for specific vehicle requirements and restrictions.

Contact Information and Additional Resources

For more information on the S.S. Badger Ferry, you can contact them at (888) 337-7948. For the Lake Express Ferry, you can reach them at (866) 914-1010.

Additionally, the Wisconsin Department of Transportation and Michigan Ferry Services websites provide valuable information on ferry services operating in their respective states, including schedules, contact details, and other useful resources.

Conclusion

Lake Michigan’s ferry services offer a unique and scenic way to explore the Great Lakes region. Whether you choose the historic S.S. Badger Ferry or the high-speed Lake Express Ferry, you’ll be treated to stunning views of the lake and the opportunity to discover the charming communities on both sides. With this guide, you’ll have all the information you need to plan your Lake Michigan ferry adventure.

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