6-20-16
The time has arrived for our Michigan vacation to begin! We decided to take the S.S. Badger Carferry from Manitowoc to Ludington since we never had before and it looked like fun! Since we were only sailing one-way, it cost us $201, including our two bikes. There is a two-sided historical marker here, as the Badger is a national historic landmark too.
We arrived early to see the ferry’s arrival from Ludington and put our vehicle in the loading zone. There was an air of excitement among the passengers while we waited to board, as many of us were sailing for the first time.
Upon boarding, we got our picture taken by a ship wheel as a memento of our experience.
After leaving port, we set about exploring the passenger areas of the ship. See map and amenities here. Our view from the port, or left side of the ship. You can see the Wisconsin Maritime Museum and the Cobia sub from here. We even saw a tour going on there, like we did a few years ago.
Also, enjoy the video of our 4-hour journey across the lake. There is something for everyone here.
Lets explore the ship, there are many areas to see on board. Upon boarding lunch was being served at the Upper Deck Café, lots of dining space just beyond the stairway in the Cabana Room. If you want to eat, be sure to get your food before 4 PM Michigan time as they have to get things put away before reaching port.
Adjacent to a TV lounge is a rack of Michigan and Wisconsin publications to help you plan activities on the other side. Also the latest issue of Crossings, the official annual magazine of the S.S. Badger.
Just up ahead is the main lounge where a rousing game of Badger Bingo was taking place. It’s free to participate and there are prizes. We opted out to explore the ship instead. We also met Issac, an expert juggler who also assisted with the bingo game. Great job Issac!
In the lounge the man is looking at a screen showing where the Badger is located on Lake Michigan. Other ship locations are visible too. Remember to change your watch after crossing the state line.