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Cruise Lake Michigan for Less: S.S. Badger’s Great Lake Getaway & Night Sails

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If fresh Ludington ferry content is on your radar this summer, the S.S. Badger has an exciting offer that deserves a spot on your travel list. Whether you’re seeking a memorable adventure, a relaxing getaway, or a family-friendly outing, this Great Lake Getaway deal provides an affordable and unique way to experience the beauty of Lake Michigan.

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SS Badger Lake Michigan Deal

What is the S.S. Badger Great Lake Getaway?

The S.S. Badger Great Lake Getaway discount is a passenger-only special fare offering a generous 37% discount for roundtrip cruises between Ludington, Michigan, and Manitowoc, Wisconsin. It’s a perfect opportunity to explore the Great Lakes without the hassle of vehicle travel — as this deal is strictly for passengers on foot.

Your roundtrip on this Lake Michigan ferry ride must be completed within three days or less. So, whether you want a quick day cruise back and forth or prefer to spend a night or two in one of the charming, walkable port cities, the choice is yours.

Badger angled with sun
SS Badger ©Spped Shot Ship Photography

Pricing and Family-Friendly Perks

This S.S. Badger passenger only fare is $108 per adult, which is a fantastic value for a roundtrip journey on the Ludington to Manitowoc ferry. Even better, you can bring up to two kids (ages 5–15) free with each paying adult. This makes the offer especially attractive for families looking for family-friendly ferry discounts and family-friendly summer activities in Ludington.

A key reminder: to take advantage of this passenger-only ferry deal Lake Michigan, bookings must be made by phone at 800-841-4243. The offer cannot be combined with other discounts or promotions.

Planning Your Trip: Manitowoc and Ludington Three-Day Itineraries

To make your planning easier, the S.S. Badger team has created suggested three-day itineraries for both Ludington and Manitowoc. These guides highlight local attractions, dining spots, and walkable areas so you can make the most of your time on either side of the lake.

Both cities offer plenty of charm and opportunities to explore on foot, making this a perfect affordable Lake Michigan ferry trip.

Golden hour casts a warm glow over Ludington State Park, where Lake Michigan sunsets create a picture-perfect end to a family day of hiking, swimming, and dune climbing in one of the best state parks in Michigan. ©ehrlif

Overnight Sails: Experience Lake Michigan Under the Stars

Beyond the Great Lake Getaway, the S.S. Badger has also brought back its popular overnight sail Lake Michigan experience during the peak summer season, running through September 1.

What to Expect on an Overnight Lake Michigan Sail

You can board the ship in Ludington at 8:45 p.m. and arrive in Manitowoc at 11:45 p.m. Central Time. Or, for a truly unique experience, try the Lake Michigan red-eye ferry crossing, departing Manitowoc at 1:30 a.m. and arriving in Ludington at 6:30 a.m.

This overnight crossing is ideal for star gazing on Lake Michigan ferry cruises, offering some of the best Lake Michigan dark sky cruises away from city lights. The peacefulness and vast nighttime sky create an unmatched atmosphere for nature lovers and travelers alike.

Nighttime Travel Savings

Another bonus? Nighttime sailings come with a 20% discount, making this summer ferry cruise on Lake Michigan both magical and affordable.


Shoreline Cruises: Mini Adventures on the Water

For those seeking a shorter, lively cruise, the S.S. Badger continues to offer its popular Shoreline Cruises Ludington. These are two-hour “mini cruises” running from 9 to 11 p.m., with boarding starting at 8:30 p.m.

What’s Included on Shoreline Cruises with Live Entertainment?

Tickets cost $60 and include delicious food and live entertainment onboard. There’s also a cash bar available for adults, while children age 4 and under ride free.

Guests enjoy scenic views of the Lake Michigan coastline, plus access to the onboard gift shop, movie theater, bar service, museum, and indoor and outdoor lounges. It’s a well-rounded Michigan Lake Michigan cruise experience perfect for family and friends alike.

Remaining Shoreline Cruise Dates

  • August 20 — departures from Ludington
  • August 2 and August 16 — departures from Manitowoc

These cruises provide a fantastic way to enjoy summer evenings on the water with plenty of options for entertainment.

SS Badger Sailing Lake Michigan from Michigan to Wisconsin
SS Badger ©SpeedShot Ship Photography

Why the S.S. Badger Should Be on Your Summer Travel List

The S.S. Badger cruises combine adventure, relaxation, and affordability. Whether you’re booking the S.S. Badger Great Lake Getaway discount, experiencing the magical overnight sails beneath a dark sky, or enjoying the lively Shoreline Cruises with live entertainment, there’s something for every kind of traveler.

If you’re searching for scenic ferry rides in Michigan and a fresh way to explore Lake Michigan, the S.S. Badger summer travel specials offer the perfect blend of comfort and excitement. Don’t miss out — book S.S. Badger ferry by phone soon to secure your spot on this unique Great Lake adventure.

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