FerryConnect

United States

Ludington → Manitowoc

The last operational coal-fired passenger steamship in the United States and designated National Historic Landmark. Crosses Lake Michigan directly between Michigan and Wisconsin, saving hundreds of miles of highway driving around Chicago.

⏱ 4h 00m🚢 1 operator📅 Daily seasonal sailings (May – Oct)🚗 Vehicles accepted🐕 Pet friendly
Book with Lake Michigan Carferry (SS Badger)→

Ludington to Manitowoc ferry at a glance

The ferry from Ludington to Manitowoc takes 4h 00m across the Lake Michigan, operated by Lake Michigan Carferry (SS Badger). Both vehicles and foot passengers are carried. Typical frequency: daily seasonal sailings (May – Oct).

Crossing times and frequencies are typical figures and vary by season. Confirm the current timetable with the operator or booking partner before you travel.

Return crossing: Manitowoc to Ludington

Lake Michigan Carferry (SS Badger) also sails Manitowoc to Ludington, taking 4h 00m.

Maritime Crossing Route Map

Interactive sea passage between Ludington and Manitowoc

📐 52 Nautical Miles
Ludington⇄Manitowoc
⏱ 4h 00m · 📐 52 nm
© OpenFreeMap / OSM
🚗 Operator website

Ready to cross from Ludington to Manitowoc?

Book your crossing with Lake Michigan Carferry (SS Badger): live fares, availability and sailing times.

Book with Lake Michigan Carferry (SS Badger)→

Operators on This Route

OperatorCrossing TimeVessels
Lake Michigan Carferry (SS Badger)4h 00mSS Badger (National Historic Landmark)

Route Features

🚗

Vehicles

Cars, campervans, and motorbikes accepted

🚶

Foot Passengers

Walk-on passengers welcome

🐕

Pets

Pets allowed with valid documents

📐

Distance

52 nautical miles

Getting There & Onward Transport

  • Designated official route of US Highway 10
  • Offers spacious outside staterooms, live entertainment, movie lounges, and onboard dining

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Frequently Asked Questions

How much driving does the SS Badger save around Chicago?
The 4-hour crossing saves approximately 350 miles of highway driving through heavy Chicago congestion.
How long is the ferry from Ludington to Manitowoc?
The crossing typically takes 4h 00m. Actual times vary by vessel, season and sea conditions, so check the timetable for your sailing.
Which ferry companies sail from Ludington to Manitowoc?
Lake Michigan Carferry (SS Badger) operates this route. Compare sailing times and ticket types before booking, as they often differ between operators.
Can I take my car on the Ludington to Manitowoc ferry?
Yes. Vehicles are carried on this route. Book vehicle space in advance for peak dates, and check the operator’s height, length and trailer limits for campervans and larger vehicles.
Can I take the Ludington to Manitowoc ferry as a foot passenger?
Yes. Foot passengers can travel on this route. Allow time to reach the passenger terminal and check the operator’s check-in closing time.
Are dogs and pets allowed on the Ludington to Manitowoc ferry?
Pets are accepted on this route, subject to the operator’s rules (for example staying in the vehicle, kennels or pet-friendly cabins). International crossings also require the correct pet travel documents.
How far is Ludington from Manitowoc by ferry?
The sea crossing is about 52 nautical miles (roughly 96 km).