Lake Michigan Overview
Lake Michigan is one of the five Great Lakes, located between Wisconsin and Michigan in the United States. It is the only Great Lake that is entirely in the United States. It is the fifth largest lake in the world, with an area of 22,400 square miles, and makes up about one fifth of the surface area of the United States. Lake Michigan is an important resource for transportation and recreation, and is also a popular destination for anglers, sailboaters, and water sport enthusiasts.
The lake is over 1,600 feet deep in places and it has an incredible 2,500 miles of shoreline, so it’s no surprise that it takes some time to cross. But just how long does it take?
Crossing By Ferry
One of the most convenient ways to travel across Lake Michigan is by ferry. Ferries provide tourists with a convenient, budget friendly, and scenic way of travelling the lake. Depending on your itinerary and the specific ferry being used, it can take anywhere between 3 to 6 hours to cross the lake.
The two main passenger ferries that cross the lake are SS Badger, which departs from Ludington, Michigan and SS Walter J. McCarthy, which departs from Manitowoc, Wisconsin. The McCarthy is faster and can cover the distance in 4 hours, while the Badger takes slightly longer, at 5.5 hours.
Both of these ferries provide luxury amenities such as free meals and seating accommodations. There are also other ferries such as the S.S. City of Midland, which departs from Muskegon, Michigan and leads to Milwaukee, Wisconsin. This ferry takes about 3 hours to cross the lake.
Peak Travel Times
The length of time it takes to cross the lake by ferry may vary depending on the time of year. Peak travel time for ferries occurs between May and September, with the lengthiest waits during the summer months. Ferries leave from their designated ports on a regular schedule during peak season, and may even provide multiple departures per day. This can be helpful for those who are trying to maximize their time while touring the lake.
The peak season also brings an influx of recreational tourists, so ferries tend to be busy during this time. Booking in advance is a great way to ensure availability, but it’s also important to keep an eye on the weather. Ferries may be delayed due to strong winds and rough waters, so checking the weather forecast before departure is a wise course of action.
Transport Links
If you’re looking to maximize your sightseeing while crossing the lake, there are plenty of transport links to make traveling from port to port easy. Buses, taxis, and rental cars are all available at all stops, and it’s also easy to get around by foot.
For those who really want to immerse themselves in the local culture, there are also bike-share services available to rent for the day. This can be a great way to explore the towns around the lake, and the city of Milwaukee has numerous bike lane networks to make getting around safe and easy.
Price Breakdown
The cost of a ferry ride varies depending on the ticket type and your chosen route, and is typically more expensive during peak times. For example, tickets to cross Lake Michigan on the SS Badger can range from $149 to $279, while the S.S. City of Midland charges $89 to $179 for a single ride.
The cost of a ticket also includes access to amenities, such as the on-board restaurants, lounges, and entertainment. Passengers also get the chance to explore the lake up close and personal, while enjoying all the beautiful scenery.
Takeaways
It’s relatively easy to travel across Lake Michigan by ferry, which can be a convenient, budget-friendly, and scenic way of exploring the lake. Depending on your schedule and the specific ferry you take, it can take anywhere from 3 to 6 hours to cross the lake.
The best way to ensure availability and minimize waiting time is to book in advance, especially during peak season. Ferry prices vary depending on the time of year, but usually include access to amenities such as on-board restaurants and lounges.
Safety Considerations
It’s important to make sure that you are aware of the safety guidelines and restrictions when travelling by ferry. As there are no dedicated lifesaving facilities, it is essential that passengers know and obey the safety policies.
It is also recommended to check the weather forecast before departure, as ferries may be delayed due to high winds or rough waters. Additionally, make sure to familiarize yourself with life jackets and emergency procedures before boarding, as these may vary between ferries.
Travelling With Pets
Traveling with your pet is always a great way to turn a visit to Lake Michigan into a truly memorable experience. However, it is important to note that each ferry has its own restrictions with regards to animals.
The SS Badger allows pets, provided they are leashed and accompanied by their owners. The S.S. City of Midland, on the other hand, does not allow pets on board. It’s always a good idea to check with the cruise line before travelling if you plan on bringing your pet.
Smooth Sailing
Crossing Lake Michigan by ferry is a great way to take in the sights and sounds of the lake. Ferries provide convenient, budget friendly, and scenic transportation, and the time to cross the lake can vary from 3 to 6 hours depending on your chosen route.
Make sure to book in advance and keep an eye on the weather forecast, and remember to familiarize yourself with safety guidelines and restrictions before you travel. With a little bit of planning, you’ll be sure to have a safe and enjoyable journey across the lake.
