Explore Family-Friendly Boat Tours on Michigan's S.S. Badger Carferry
Experience a Great Lakes Getaway This Summer
The 2026 season of the S.S. Badger Lake Michigan Carferry kicks off on May 15, and you won’t want to miss the exciting things you can experience while crossing Lake Michigan from Ludington to Manitowoc. The four-hour trip offers activities for all ages, while allowing for breathtaking views of the expansive lake and dazzling shoreline.
NEW THIS YEAR: Events have been added while the ship remains dockside. Take a look below for all of the details!
Here are our favorite things aboard the steamship we hope you will enjoy too:
1. Awe-inspiring Views and Relaxing Atmosphere
There is no greater vantage point of the shorelines of Michigan and Wisconsin than coming into port aboard the S.S. Badger. While it’s technically a lake, Lake Michigan feels much more spacious like an ocean. The ship’s bow offers lounge chairs for relaxation, and the sounds of the waves make the greatest soundtrack to enjoy a book, a cocktail or even a nap. However you choose to enjoy your ride, the sights and sounds are sure to make a lasting impression.
2. Entertainment for All Ages
There are so many things from which to choose during your short stint on the boat. The entertainment aboard the ship includes a movie theater, live music, satellite TV and a gift shop. Children will enjoy the KidsPort Play Room, Captain Conrad Scavenger Hunt and high-definition video game stations.playing cards, mugs and more.
3. Badger Bingo
A tradition while traveling on the ship is Badger Bingo. Take a seat in the main lounge and get ready to mark your cards for a BINGO! Winners get their choice of Badger gifts, like. No true experience on the S.S. Badger is complete without a game of Badger Bingo.
4. Loop Tour
A trip across on the Badger is part of the Lake Michigan Circle Tour, which will take you either north or south on scenic highways, once you step off the boat. After retrieving your car from the ferry, make memories on a driving loop — experiencing the views of Wisconsin and the Upper and Lower peninsulas of Michigan. You will see many landmarks, including museums, the Mackinac Bridge, Sleeping Bear Sand Dunes and state parks on the northern loop — or Chicago, Harbor Country and West Michigan beaches on the southern tour.
5. New 2026 Events
No reason to head to Wisconsin but still want to experience the S.S. Badger? Try a shoreline cruise – a themed, two hour celebration designed to cater to various audiences. On July 4, you can even catch the fireworks display from the boat on Independence Day. Other shoreline cruises are scheduled for June 6, July 25, and August 22.
An Open Boat Night is set for May 16, when you can step aboard Badger, unwind, and experience the ship from a different perspective — right from the dock! For $10, guests are invited to come aboard and explore the passenger areas and outer decks at their own pace or enjoy live entertainment by Joe Stickney in the Cabana Room.
Experience a 50’s Murder Mystery on June 12, when you can break out the poodle skirts, leather jackets, rolled-up jeans, or channel your favorite 1950s icon. The cooler the threads, the better! As the clues unfold, you’ll mingle, investigate, put your detective skills to the test in a stylish, mid-century whodunnit. (The ship will be docked during this event.)
6. Great Lakes Getaway Package
The Great Lake Getaway Package is a refreshing escape that saves you money and gives you all the feels of a full vacation!
This passenger-only special allows you to cruise the historic S.S. Badger with a 37% discount! (Your roundtrip must be completed in 3 days or less and vehicles are not permitted.) Take a day to cruise back and forth, or stay overnight in one of our charming, walkable port cities, Ludington, MI or Manitowoc, WI.
This exclusive offer must be booked by phone and can’t be combined with other discounts or promotions.
Call 1-800-841-4243 to book this deal!
