Lake Michigan, the second-largest Great Lake, offers several ferry ports that connect Michigan and Wisconsin, providing a convenient and scenic way to travel between the two states. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the most popular Lake Michigan ferry ports, their schedules, and how to plan a trip using these ferry services.
Most Popular Lake Michigan Ferry Ports
The most popular Lake Michigan ferry ports include:
- Milwaukee, Wisconsin
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Lake Express Ferry: Connects Milwaukee to Muskegon, Michigan, with two daily departures during spring and fall, and additional evening crossings on popular travel days during summer.
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Muskegon, Michigan
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Lake Express Ferry: Connects Muskegon to Milwaukee, Wisconsin, with two daily departures during spring and fall, and additional evening crossings on popular travel days during summer.
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Manitowoc, Wisconsin
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S.S. Badger Ferry: Connects Manitowoc to Ludington, Michigan, with daily departures, taking approximately 4 hours to cross Lake Michigan.
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Ludington, Michigan
- S.S. Badger Ferry: Connects Ludington to Manitowoc, Wisconsin, with daily departures, taking approximately 4 hours to cross Lake Michigan.
Planning a Trip Using Lake Michigan Ferry Ports
When planning a trip using Lake Michigan ferry ports, consider the following:
Schedule and Timings
- Lake Express Ferry: Check the schedule for daily departures and additional evening crossings during summer. Arrive 45 minutes prior to scheduled departure, as boarding closes 15 minutes before departure.
- S.S. Badger Ferry: Departures are daily, with the ferry taking 4 hours to cross Lake Michigan. Be aware of the time zone change between Eastern Time (ET) and Central Time (CT).
Booking and Reservations
- Lake Express Ferry: Book tickets online or call (866) 914-1010 for reservations and inquiries.
- S.S. Badger Ferry: Book tickets online or call (888) 337-7948 for reservations and inquiries.
Vehicle and Passenger Accommodations
- Lake Express Ferry: Accommodates cars, motorcycles, bikes, and pedestrian passengers.
- S.S. Badger Ferry: Accommodates cars, motorcycles, bikes, pedestrian passengers, and larger vehicles like RVs and trailers with advanced reservations.
On-Board Amenities
- Lake Express Ferry: Offers classic and premium seating, outdoor deck area, on-board food and drinks.
- S.S. Badger Ferry: Features comfortable seating, outside deck, dining area, and private staterooms.
Tips and Reminders
- Weather: Be prepared for weather conditions, as ferry schedules may be affected.
- Time Zones: Be aware of the time zone change between Eastern Time (ET) and Central Time (CT).
By understanding these details, you can plan a smooth and enjoyable trip using the Lake Michigan ferry ports, taking advantage of the convenience and scenic beauty they offer.