Community Forums

WDW · 06-23-2015, 08:26 AM

Looking to next summer for planning to cross Lake Michigan on the Ludington car ferry. Anyone with any experience taking their MH and toad?

t55watson · 06-23-2015, 08:35 AM

I have visited the ferry docks and inquired about pricing, a few years ago, and decided I didn't want to do it. Saves time (I have plenty) and mileage on vehicle but it's not for me.

EZDZIT · 06-23-2015, 10:06 AM

We used the ferry from Manitowoc to Ludington a couple years ago and enjoyed it. No problems loading or unloading the rig in our signature.

WDW · 06-23-2015, 07:46 PM

Did they load your MH or did you drive it on?

Taking in the sights with our Trolley ...but life is always better under a Palm Tree
2015 JAYCO 31FK

Western New York

schools out · 06-24-2015, 06:08 AM

WDW, we crossed from Ludington to Manitowoc 3 years ago. The Badger is an old coal burning car ferry that makes for an adventure. The crossing takes 3-4 hours, but, just like flying, you must arrive early for loading & security reasons. (total time was closer to 7 hours) You will not be allowed to drive your motorhome on & the toad has to be disconnected. Additionally, if you have pets, they must stay in the vehicle and you are not allowed back in that area. As I remember, price is based on the length of moho & car + number of passengers. For our 30' + car + 2 passengers price was in the $400 range. I don't remember exactly. On a more positive note…we took the night/sunset crossing, and sailed into the most beautiful sunset over Lake Michigan. Once we arrived at the dock in WI & were reunited with our motorhome, car & dog, we were allowed to spend the night in the ferry parking lot. Since it was now 1:00 in the morning, we did. We picked an out of the way spot on the edge of the lot & the Western shore of the lake. The next morning, we were treated (again) to the beauty of the sun rising over Lake MI. Though we enjoyed the experience, we made this a one-way crossing & (after our trip) returned to MI driving through the UP.

pcurt23 · 06-24-2015, 07:30 AM

We have used the ferry 2 times. We go the night before and stay in the parking lot. The fare is completely worth not driving through Chicago. If you consider fuel, it cost me about $100 more, round trip, to take the ferry. We then return in the afternoon and stay overnight again in the parking lot before heading out. They load and unload the car and the rig. It is painless but does take time.

WDW · 06-24-2015, 09:50 AM

Thanks!

I have warm memories of the sister ship City of Midland. I recall train cars being loaded and setting on deck with Jiffy Pop!

Definitely on our trip list!

t55watson · 06-25-2015, 09:07 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by WDW

Thanks!

I have warm memories of the sister ship City of Midland. I recall train cars being loaded and setting on deck with Jiffy Pop!

Definitely on our trip list!

The sister ship to the Badger is the Spartan. They were named after college mascots of Wisconsin and Michigan State. The Spartan sits tied up and out of commission at the Ludington docks. It is cannibalized for parts.