A Behind-the-Scenes Tour of the S.S. Badger

We had the opportunity to board the S.S. Badger in Ludington, Michigan for a behind-the-scenes tour of this iconic ship. 

The SS Badger-an icon of Lake Michigan and a living legend in motion and a National Historic Landmark. She's been crossing these waters for over 70 years, and today, she's the only one of her kind. We are taking a closer look at the history, the engine room, and the updates that are keeping this powerhouse alive in 2025. 

It all started with watching the Badger arrive back to port in Ludington. Watching the Badger return is a must-do while in Ludington during the sailing season. We then quickly made our way to the dock to be ready for the tour. We were able to watch the staff of the Badger unload vehicles until it was our time to board. 

We have been onboard in the past but this is the first time seeing the some of the behind-the-scenes aspects such as the engine room. This was a truly unique thing to see as she runs on two Skinner Unaflow steam engines-a combined 7,000 HP, powered by fourFoster-Wheeler coal boilers. While we don't quite understand exctly what all of of that means, being down there and seeing it all first hand gave us an appreciation for the folks who keep this vessel going. Something unique is that once the fire is lit in the spring, she Runs until the season ends. That means round the clock attention to detail, in the moment adjustments and a full time staff that keep her sailing.  

After touring the engine room we made our way to the vehicle deck. Originally designed for railcars, today she's hauling automobiles, RVs, motorcycles, even
semi-trucks. 

To go along with the tour of the engine room, we also got a tour of the pilothouse. The pilothouse took us by surprise. Having been on freighters, we expected something similar. A large, and original, ships wheel and surrounding instruments took the center of the pilothouse. We learned something at this time. The S.S. Badger is steered by hand and the communication between the pilothouse and engine room is key.

We also got to tour the galley which provides food and meals for both passengers and crew. During a previous time on the Badger, we were able to enjoy food and drinks while doing one of their shoreline cruises, which take place at various times throughout the summer. 

The Badger has daily crossings back and fourth from Ludington and Manitowoc, hauling cars, cargo and people plus, overnight sailings are back every Thursday through Tuesday, from June 20 to September 1.

Each day when the Badger arrives, passengers then have the opportunity to get off and explore all of the great things that Ludington has to offer. For us, we ended our day on the patio at Jamesport Brewing with the S.S. Badger able to be seen docked for the evening.

Check out our full behind-the-scenes video below!