LUDINGTON FERRY FIELD GUIDE
Crossing Lake Michigan Aboard The Badger: Ludington to Manitowoc’s Four-Hour Ferry Passage
A four-hour car-ferry crossing on Lake Michigan aboard the historic SS Badger, with onboard amenities and clear logistics for travelers.
Crossing Lake Michigan Aboard The Badger: Ludington to Manitowoc’s Four-Hour Ferry Passage.
From Ludington’s shore the SS Badger slips west across Lake Michigan on a four-hour crossing to Manitowoc, a purposeful transit aboard a historic car ferry that mixes vehicle transport with family-friendly onboard amenities—games, movies and a boutique—making the voyage both practical and mildly theatrical.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
A historic car ferry and a straightforward crossing
Travelers board the SS Badger for a scheduled four-hour crossing between Ludington and Manitowoc aboard Lake Michigan’s original car ferry.
Amenities that make the crossing easy
Onboard amenities include family-friendly activities such as games and movies plus a boutique; staterooms are available for quiet time or naps.
Simple timing with limited evening runs
There is a regular daytime departure and limited evening crossings in summer, with the schedule crossing between Eastern and Central Time Zones during the voyage.
What the day feels like
What the crossing feels like
Boarding at Ludington unfolds like a short expedition: load vehicles, move up to passenger decks, and settle into a four-hour transit punctuated by onboard entertainment and quiet staterooms for families or anyone wanting rest. The ship runs scheduled daily and includes limited evening departures in summer, making the trip both a transport option and a contained, comfortable voyage across Lake Michigan.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this crossing suits—and who should plan around the rules.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
Water bottles and non-alcoholic beverages are permitted aboard; all coolers must be left on the luggage cart or stored in your vehicle.
Staterooms are available for purchase for $61 each way and provide a private place to rest or quiet young children during the crossing.
Free parking is available at both Ludington and Manitowoc terminals; remember that all vehicle reservations must include at least one adult.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
How long is the crossing?
Each crossing takes four hours.
When does the ferry depart from Ludington?
The Badger departs daily from Ludington at 9:00am Eastern Time; limited evening summer crossings depart at 8:45pm Eastern Time except on Wednesdays.
What are the arrival times in Manitowoc?
A 9:00am Eastern departure from Ludington arrives in Manitowoc at 12:00pm Central Time; limited evening departures arrive at 11:45pm Central Time.
Can I bring food, drinks or coolers aboard?
Water bottles and non-alcoholic beverages may be brought aboard; all coolers must be left on the luggage cart or in your vehicle.
Are pets allowed on board?
Animals may be kept in a well-ventilated portable kennel on the car deck or remain in the owner’s vehicle for no additional charge; pets are not permitted in passenger areas. Service dogs trained to perform tasks may accompany the handler.
Are staterooms available?
Yes; staterooms are available for $61 each way and offer a quiet place for rest during the crossing.
Is parking available at the terminals?
Free parking is available at both Ludington and Manitowoc locations.