LUDINGTON, Mich. — After last year's season was cut short, the S.S. Badger is back on Lake Michigan and making her maiden voyage of 2024 to Manitowoc Friday morning.
Last year, the season ended abruptly when issues with the ramping system at the Ludington home port were noticed. No one was injured and both the ramp and the S.S. Badger were undamaged, but the season came to an end in August. The Badger usually makes trips across the lake through October.
Thom Hawley, public relations for Lake Michigan Carferry, said repairs took several months to complete.
"A great effort was done by some local contractors and engineers to help us rebuild this system and get it up running again," he said.
While the season may have been cut short, Hawley said crews work year-round and begin planning for the next year immediately after the season ends. Now, crews are ready to get back onboard and head across Lake Michigan.
"They came back this spring and have been dusting off the ship and loading it up again for another season, and we're really excited," Hawley said.
Brandy Miller, executive director of the Mason County Chamber Alliance, said the S.S. Badger being on the lake throughout the summer makes a big difference to Ludington's economy.
The ship can carry about 600 passengers and 180 vehicles. Hawley said they take everything from cars, trucks, oversized loads, RVs and more. Thousands make the journey across the lake every year.
"It really makes our community hustle and bustle," Miller said. "The boat drops a couple hundred of people off at our doorstep every day, and sometimes twice a day. It means a lot to a lot of businesses, not just tourist-facing businesses either."
She said city and business leaders are ready for smooth sailing this season.
"I think having had disappointment last year with the season being cut short, I think everybody feels its impact, you know, and so to be able to celebrate that it's back on the lake, dropping visitors here at our doorstep, it's just extra meaningful I think for everybody, and I think a sigh of relief, like, 'We're here! We're back,'" Miller said.
The S.S. Badger first sailed across the lake in 1953, and was declared a National Historic Landmark in 2016.
Miller said taking a trip on the Badger is "like stepping back in time," saying that while there are many modern amenities to enjoy on the voyage, everything has a "nostalgic feel." The ship boasts lounges, two bars, free games and movies, an arcade and more.
The S.S. Badger left Ludington for her first voyage of the season at 9 a.m. To learn more or book your ticket, click here.
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