Day Thirteen – The Badger

From the shore of Lake Michigan, we watched a misty form materialize into the only moving National Historic Landmark in the United States; the ferry boat named "The Badger". This 410-foot, 6,650-ton ship is the last coal powered vessel still working the waters of the US after being put into service in 1953.

Nowadays, the Badger crosses Lake Michigan carrying both passengers and vehicles at approximately 18 to 24 mph between Ludington, Michigan, and Manitowoc, Wisconsin. However, she originally carried rail cars and those tracks can still be seen on her deck. Regardless what she carries, lighthouses on either shore can be counted on to guide The Badger into port. 

The trip across Lake Michigan is considered to be part of US highway 10. It takes approximately four hours to cut across the lake, which is much shorter than the time it takes to drive around the southern portion of Lake Michigan! Not to mention, the ferry is a bypass for the busy Chicago metropolis.

Passengers can watch the waters of Lake Michigan pass under the ship from either of two passenger decks. There are concession stands with a variety food, snacks and drinks for travelers to choose from. Other onboard activities include the famed “Badger Bingo”, a movie theatre that shows family friendly movies, an arcade room, a variety of board games, and a play room for young children. 

Most passengers enjoy watching the departure and landing of the ferry from its two ports, Ludington and Manitowoc. The roiling waters exhibit the power of the two engines. It is exciting to feel the rumbling, rattling, and vibration of the deck.


Surprisingly, many seabirds, like this white pelican, float quietly next to the large boat even when the engines begin their work.

We lucked out with a glassy smooth trip, but it is not always calm on these great lakes. The week prior to our trip, the ferry was cancelled due to a storm which cause 15-to-20-foot waves. Yes, we were fortunate to experience a calm lake, rather than an angry lake.

Sail on Badger! 


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