LUDINGTON, Mich. — The S.S. Badger is preparing for her 71st sailing season kicking off early on May 17 after her 2023 season was cut short.
Following months of structural repairs and improvements to the ramping system at the Ludington home port, the team at Lake Michigan Carferry (LMC) said she's almost ready to set sail.
“We are thrilled to welcome our passengers back more than a month earlier than originally anticipated," said Sara Spore, the general manager of LMC. "It’s a testament to the dedication of our staff here and the hard work of local vendors to make sure we are ready to go."
The S.S. Badger is the largest cross-lake passenger and car ferry service on the Great Lakes.
Designated as a National Historic Landmark, the ferry can carry 600 passengers and 180 vehicles.
“We know the important role our Badger plays in tourism, travel and adventure for our port communities of Ludington, Michigan and Manitowoc, Wisconsin," Spore said. "We can’t wait to get back to doing what we do best on the shores of our Great Lake.”
Last summer, an integral component of the ramping system failed, causing the ferry's 70th season to end sooner than expected. No one was injured in the incident and both the ramp and the S. S. Badger weren't damaged.
"With the successful construction of two new counterweight structures for the carferry’s ramp system, the Badger is back, better and stronger ready to carry passengers and transport freight across our marine highway on Lake Michigan,” Spore said.
The S.S. Badger makes a four-hour journey across the 60-mile shortcut passage on Lake Michigan in her daily crossings.
“Both cities are graciously welcoming us back with bands and fanfare at the dock,” Spore said.
There will be 100 employees working on the day the S.S. Badger sets sail, with 40 between the deck and engine crews to ensure a safe, smooth ride.
Spore said they're also planning on bringing back night crossings in June and the schedule will be posted on their website.
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