S.S. Badger Arrival and Docking in Ludington

In this video, we see the S.S. Badger steam into port in Ludington, MI after its trip across Lake Michigan from Manitowoc, WI on September 3rd, 2022. It is claimed that the Badger is the only remaining steam powered passenger ferry of her kind still operating today in the country. She is also part of U.S. 10 and is a historic landmark in both Michigan and Wisconsin. Originally built in the 1950's, the Badger was originally designed to transport rail cars. Passenger service was not offered until the early 1990's when the ship was resurrected after being out of service for some time. The Badger sounds her horn as she enters the channel into the Pere Marquette River and then proceeds to do a 180 degree turn so that she can back into the dock. This maneuver takes a skilled captain to execute, as the vessel has no bow thrusters; the anchor is dropped to allow the ship to pivot 180 degrees. Once docked, the ship sounds its horn again and many people and vehicles make their way off the ship. As you can see, vehicles ranging from cars, trucks, busses, and even silage wagons make the journey across Lake Michigan on the Badger.

[@StacySchwass]

Born and raised in Mason County, took my first day cruise on Sept 4 2024 what a great experience. Thank you Capt. Mike and all the crew. I will do again soon.❤❤❤👍👍👍🤗🤗🤗🇺🇸🇺🇸

[@flyingcat2054]

Thanks for sharing!

[@flyingcat2054]

Do you know if people drive their cars on and off the ship themselves, or does the ship's crew/employees do that?

[@Spaceshotx7]

When are the 2-4 chime airhorns used, and when is the old steam horn use?

[@RLTtizME]

No specific pattern. If one has an automatic activator for foggy operations...they will use that one. A single long blast at timed intervals while underway. BTW...the long and a short whistle at the end indicates docking completed....tie it up.