Book now to cross Lake Michigan on this historic car ferry in 2025

LUDINGTON, MI – It’s that time of year: time to book your passage across Lake Michigan on the SS Badger.

Reservations are available for seats aboard the historic car ferry during the 2025 season, which operates from Friday, May 16th to Sunday, October 12th.

The ferry offers daily round-trip service between Ludington and Manitowoc, Wisconsin, May through October. The Badger leaves Ludington at 9 a.m. and arrives in Manitowoc, Wisconsin, at noon after the four-hour journey (Wisconsin is one hour behind Michigan). The return journey begins at 2:00 p.m. and the ship docks in Ludington at 7:00 p.m

Standard seasonal rates from June 20th to September 1st:

• Adults: one-way, $86; Round trip: $172

• Seniors and active military: one-way, $78; Round trip: $156

• Children (5-15 years): one way, $42; Round trip: $84

• Children up to 4 years: Always free

Fares are reduced during the spring and fall off-season: May 16 to June 19; and September 2nd to October 12th. Additional fees apply for crossing with vehicles, motorhomes, motorcycles and bicycles.

You can find the timetable here, the fares can be found here and you can book a trip here.

Here are a few ways to get a discount:

• Roundtrip Mini Cruises: Round trip within 48 hours without a vehicle for $108 per adult and $62 per child (ages 5-15).

• Group discounts: Reduced prices apply to groups of 15 people or more. For group tour information, click here or call 800-841-4243.

Coastal cruises are also available. These events include a theme and entertainment. Boarding begins at 8:30 p.m. and the cruise along the Lake Michigan shoreline occurs from 9:00 p.m. to 11:00 p.m. Here is the Ludington schedule:

• Wednesday, June 18 ($60 per person)

• Friday, July 4th ($72 per person)

• Wednesday, July 23 ($60 per person)

• Wednesday, August 20 ($60 per person)

This year marks the 72nd anniversary of the SS Badger. It is the last operating coal-fired passenger steamer in the United States. The 410-foot-long ship was recognized as a National Historic Landmark in 2016. It was originally designed to transport railcars across Lake Michigan.