S.S. Badger Ferry
We experienced the most unique way of transporting from one place (Manitowoc Wisconsin) to another (Ludington Michigan) yesterday: we sailed aboard the SS BADGER, the largest and last coal-fired passenger steamship in operation. Built originally to carry railroad cars across Lake Michigan, she was designated a marine highway in 2015, as a continuation of US Highway 10. Opened up just two weeks ago, this sailing season marks the Badger’s 70th season of ferrying cargo (and RVs!) across the Lake.
The weather was perfect and the waters were super calm the entire 4 hour journey. We didn’t chance that however, and prepped with Dramamine. The flat fresh waters went as far as the eye could see and the true expanse of the lake was still hard to comprehend!
Loading and unloading Clark (the RV) and Lois (the car) was left to the crew members. We simply pulled into the port grounds, got inspected by K-9s around the outside of the vehicles, and drove into the designated lane. From there, we unhooked Lois, put up “Cat on board” signs (Darcy got to ride in her house just like any other travel day), left keys on the ignitions, and proceeded on board to watch them back in the RV (yes, in reverse, with only inches of room on either side!). That was the most stressful part of the entire day. Upon arrival, the cars and our home were driven out forward facing.
We found a beautiful city campground just 10 miles inland at Scottville Riverside Park to raise our glasses and make a toast that night to one of the most memorable travel days yet! 