Popular Car Ferry Service In Michigan Is Done For 2023

A popular Michigan service has postponed the remaining season in 2023. Due to some unfortunate circumstances a Ludington icon will be docked for the rest of the year. The S.S. Badger will no longer be in service for the remainder of 2023.

Sadly this comes during their 70th anniversary year. They rolled out the red carpet for passengers and offered some good deals for travelers.

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Heck, the Badger was set to resume overnight trips between Luginton and Manitowoc, WI.

What Happened to the S.S. Badger?

According to their website:

On July 21, a failure of the counterweight structure on the port side of the Badger’s ramp system occurred.

That cannot be good. Is this an easy fix?

What's the Latest Update on the S.S. Badger situation?

The Badger website says:

Underwater divers, marine construction contractors and an engineering firm were quickly engaged but over the last week, it became clear that the necessary repairs were extensive and would take months to clear the collapsed structure and erect a new one.

The Badger website also states:

While an amazing amount of work has been done in last 11 days and an incredible effort has been made by all of our employees and key partners on the Lakes, this is a very complicated process and one that will not be complete in time to resume service this season,” says Sara Spore, General Manager of Lake Michigan Carferry. “We sincerely apologize for any inconvenience and disruption in plans. We know that our passengers and our port communities of Ludington and Manitowoc rely on the Badger. We thank them for their support, patience and understanding as we tackle this unexpected and disappointing end to our season.

I've watched the S.S. Badger arrive and depart Lugington many times. It's fun to watch and has been a part of the community for 70 years. Good luck with the fix, hopefully you'll have it done in time for 2024.