Lake Michigan Ferry SS Badger
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There are two ferries that cross Lake Michigan.  The S.S. Badger whose home port is our own Ludington, Michigan and the Lake Express operating from Muskegon.  For lots of reasons, we are partial to the Lake Michigan ferry S.S. Badger.  Guests often ask Suzette or myself to expain the significant differences in the two boats and the services they offer.  To learn about the differences in the boats and services, read an article published by the Detroit Free Press "You Haven't Lived Here Until..." You ride a ferry to Wisconsin. 

The 410 foot S.S. Badger operates between Ludington, Michigan and Manitowoc, Wisconsin.  These two Lake Michigan ports mark the shortest route across the lake.

Although the S.S. Badger operates on a seasonal basis, its solid, traditional design was intended for year round sailing.  This dependable design allows the S.S. Badger to offer passengers more amenities and more fun.  On board there are free movies, a variety of food and beverage options, ample seating, quiet areas, a museum and a boutique.  Outside are wide, covered decks, gathering areas and comfortable seating.

The S.S. Badger's home port of Ludington, Michigan is an outdoor lovers dream.  Ludington is a great place to 'home base' and explore the Lake Michigan region serviced by the S.S. Badger.

As a vacation getaway, outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy outstanding hiking trails, beautiful stretches of beach, the Pere Marquette fly fishing river, Ludington State Park, Lake Michigan fishing, romantic dinner destinations, and sunsets.  Nearby are outstanding Michigan golf courses, wineries, Sleeping Bear Dunes and charming Lake Michigan villages such as Pentwater, Silver Lake and Manistee.

Ludington's sister port is Manitowoc, Wisconsin.  Manitowoc is the "Maritime Capitol" of Wisconsin and gateway to the Door Peninsula.  If you have not been to the Door, you should go!  It offers scenic small villages, cliffs, beautiful parks and culture.  As a home base, or even for a day trip with bicycles, Manitowoc is a great destination with free bus service to a superb maritime museum and interesting downtown shops.
 
 To better serve our guests and to give you more options and better pricing of both rooms and food, we have lowered our room rates and made breakfast optional. We're working on new breakfast choices to purchase featuring omelets, lots of fresh fruit, homemade baked goods, Greek yogurt, cereals, crepes, homemade jams and much more that you're
sure to enjoy!  So, for travelers taking the S.S. Badger, Summer's Inn Ludington offers a stay at the most reasonable rates!

Our location is quiet, convenient and only minutes from the dock.

S.S. Badger

Ludington Visitor Bureau

Manitowoc Visitor Bureau 

Travel Michigan