Note that passengers with cars are not permitted to stay their in vehicle during the crossing and each car passenger must purchase a separate cabin seat.Important Details:No charging outlets are available in general seating, however, charging outlets are available in premium seating.Wifi is restricted to premium cabin and there is no cell data connection once you are out on Lake MI.The Lake Express ferry can accommodate 45 cars, early in the season there were only 15 cars, tops, on our crossing.The day I took the ferry, the lake was pretty calm, with 1 foot waves, earlier in the week the Lake was rough, and crew members said it was a difficult, uncomfortable crossing for many passengers.Bring snacks with you: the ferry galley serves hot food items, but it is quite expensive.On the day of my travel, the ferry left 15 minutes earlier than the published departure time.Remember that there is a 1 hour time change between the 2 ports: Muskegon, MI is on EST and Milwaukee, WI is on CDT. The Shoreline Inn offers well-appointed rooms, lakefront views, restaurants, pools and a fitness room to all of their guests. MUSKEGON, MI - The daily ferry that runs across Lake Michigan between Milwaukee and Muskegon is opening for the season on May 7. Exceptions will be made for those with special needs or small children. [6] The driver will have to drive very close to other vehicles to board the ferry. Your email will not be provided to third parties. This is a nice boat to tame across Lake Michigan. If you choose to put your pet in one of our complimentary kennels, please request it at the time of booking. Lake Express (Muskegon) - What to Know BEFORE You Go (2023) - Tripadvisor To learn more about this, please call 1-866-914-1010, or visit a terminal and speak to a Customer Service Representative. Lake Express is working hard to come to an agreement with an industry-leader and is hoping to restore service by summer 2020. Up the lakeshore, the S.S. Badger also runs a daily ferry across Lake Michigan, between Ludington and Manitowoc, Wisconsin. Their ferry travels a distance of about 80 miles (70nmi; 130km), in two-and-a-half hours, across Lake Michigan. These events take place most Friday evenings during those summer months at the beautiful Hackley Park. Most first-time visitors think they're standing on the shore of the ocean. Because of its size, traveling around it can take a long time. Verify to immediately update business information, respond to reviews, and more! Share. This makes the total travel time just over 5 hours for the S.S Badger and 4 hours for the Lake Express. YouTubes privacy policy is available here and YouTubes terms of service is available here. Example video title will go here for this video. We took the ferry on a bike trip to Milwaukee. Community Rules apply to all content you upload or otherwise submit to this site. All rights reserved (About Us). The Lake Express is the speediest mode of transport if you're not flying. Is there other transportation available at the Lake Express Terminals. Minors traveling aboard the Lake Express must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian. MUSKEGON, Mich. Daily service for the Lake Express Ferry kicks off on Friday, May 6. Ferries operating in Wisconsin - Wisconsin Department of Transportation The trip from the Muskegon Terminal, 1918 Lake Drive, and the Milwaukee Terminal takes 2 hours. Recommended Car ferry. Take the car ferry from Milwaukee to Muskegon. Taking the Lake Express ferry between Muskegon/Milwaukee is a lot of fun & a great experience- realistically, little time is saved taking the ferry, after one factors in the time required to journey to the departure port and needing to arrive an hour before departure, but one avoids dealing with Chicagoland traffic and it's a relaxing & enjoyable way to travel between Wisconsin and Michigan . Last years season for the ferry that runs from Muskegon to Milwaukee was delayed because of the pandemic, but Lake Express Senior Vice President Aaron Schultz said in a statement that early bookings have been in line with 2019 levels.. Now in its 20th season of sailing, the high-speed ferry, its terminal located at 2330 S. Lincoln Memorial Dr., travels at 34 knots, or 39 miles per hour, and crosses Lake Michigan in 2 hours, arriving in Muskegon, Michigan. There are 2 ways to get from Milwaukee to Muskegon by car ferry or car. Related: Lake Express ferry returning for full 2021 season from Muskegon to Milwaukee. With easy and convenient highway connections in Milwaukee (I-94 and I-43) and Muskegon (I-96 and US-31), the Lake Express is the perfect way to fast forward to your preferred destination in Michigan, Wisconsin or beyond. Special Olympics Michigan receives $5M from increased state budget, It's illegal to set off any more fireworks today. The Lake Express closes from October 23rd to May 4th. Explore the 400 million year journey of the plants and animals of Michigans past at the Lakeshore Museum Center. Please be aware that height restrictions include anything mounted on top of the vehicle, for example racks with bicycles, and that length restrictions include anything mounted to the back of the vehicle. By browsing this site, we may share your information with our social media partners in accordance with our Privacy Policy. Please see our rates and fares page for more information. We recently traveled round trip from Muskegon to Milwaukee. Travelers can visit Lake-Express.com or call (866) 914-1010 to purchase tickets and get more information about the upcoming travel season. In light of ongoing uncertainty caused by that outbreak, the ferry has waived change and cancellation fees. Whether driving or taking your car on one of the ferries, you'll have the flexibility of your vehicle. The Lake Michigan Shortcut. Ground transportation options are available at each terminal. The S.S. Badger takes you between the cities of Ludington, MI and Manitowoc, WI. The following FAQs cover some of the questions we encounter most often as we work with travelers planning trips on Lake Michigan's fast ferry. You can purchase tickets for the ferry on our website, by calling 1-866-914-1010, or by visiting one of our terminals. The daily ferry service has been around since 2004. You'll marvel at its sleek design, convenience, and speed. The Lake Express High-Speed Ferry takes only 2 hours and 30 minutes to cross. Take the car ferry from Ludington to Manitowoc. Both fares guarantee a seat in one of our newly-renovated and updated cabins; seating is available on a first-come, first-serve basis. The Lake Express Ferry launched its 20th season of ferry service between Milwaukee and Muskegon, Michigan, on Friday. That said, if you encounter Chicago at the wrong time, you'll face heavy delays. (less than 100 feet, flat terrain). It travels 80 miles across Lake Michigan between the Muskegon Terminal, 1918 Lakeshore Drive, and the Milwaukee Terminal. All passengers need boarding pass ready for boarding. Use of and/or registration on any portion of this site constitutes acceptance of our User Agreement (updated 4/4/2023), Privacy Policy and Cookie Statement, and Your Privacy Choices and Rights (updated 7/1/2023). three round trips daily from now until October. The Lake Express delayed the start of its operating cycle last year due to COVID-19, but the company is planning to operate for a full season this spring and summer. Lake Express high speed auto passenger ferry - Tripadvisor Make sure you make a reservation, car space is limited. Exceptions may be made when certain conditions are met, and these passengers must have Lake Express authorized and notarized paperwork in order to travel. Muskegon to Milwaukee Lake Express ferry launches this week for - mlive Cookie Settings/Do Not Sell My Personal Information. We have been on the Lake Express Twice and the whole experience was very good from the nice staff to cleanliness of the boat. Reserved tickets cancelled prior to the reserved departure time are refundable minus the following cancellation fees: $10.00 cancellation fee per Child fare (1-way or roundtrip) covered by the reservation. Seats are available on the upper stern and on the sun deck for you to enjoy the view of Lake Michigan, though you may want to limit your time outdoors due to windy conditions. Theres no better way to travel across Lake Michigan, said Aaron Schultz, senior vice president at Lake Express. Drive from Muskegon to Ludington. Fares : S.S Badger If you have additional questions or would like personalized trip planning assistance, please call our trip planners toll free at 866-914-1010. Lake Express High Speed Ferry | Michigan Sailing Apr-Oct; call or visit Web site for current departures. Quickest way to get there Cheapest option Distance between. The S.S. Badger is the largest car ferry to ever sail Lake Michigan and has provided a safe, fun, and reliable shortcut across the inland sea for 67 years. [9] There is a small snack bar on board, which sells a few hot and cold items (pizza, hamburger, potato chips, veggie plate, cheese and grapes plate, cookies, alcohol, pop). But according to the website, Lake Express should open her 17th season on June 4. Additional Information. Ludington MI To Manitowoc WI SS Badger People & Car Ferry Lake Express High Speed Ferry - Grand Haven Crossing . The Lake Express Ferry, traveling between Milwaukee, Wisconsin and Muskegon, Michigan, costs $105 per person one way. Once on board, seating is on a first-come, first-serve basis. The material on this site may not be reproduced, distributed, transmitted, cached or otherwise used, except with the prior written permission of Advance Local. You may book space for cars, trucks, vans, SUVs, motorcycles, trailers, RVs, and bicycles online. It's time for you.to experience high speed transportation across Lake Michigan. This event also includes athletic contests like a 5K race and an annual rubber duck race. [2], Approaching Milwaukee on the Lake Express. From Thursday, June 4, to Thursday, June 18, the ferry will run four trips a day: two from Muskegon, and two from Milwaukee. Prices for the Lake Express will not vary by the time of the year. Each port is easy to get to and surrounded by gas stations, restaurants, and other necessities you'll need once you reach the other side. The fall season drops back down to four trips from Sept. 7 to Oct. 25. You'll bypass a lot of the smaller towns and rural areas and stick to the more developed southern coasts of the lake. Muskegon Terminal 1918 Lakeshore Drive Muskegon, MI 49441 Milwaukee Terminal 2330 S. Lincoln Memorial Drive Milwaukee, WI 53207 Ticket Office Hours Monday - Sunday: 7:30 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. central 866-914-1010. Lake Express has been ferrying passengers on the 80-mile journey across Lake Michigan since 2004. You can save money by purchasing a round-trip ticket for $181 per person. The Lake Express Milwaukee terminal and the company headquarters are located near the Port of Milwaukee. The daily ferry service has been around since 2004. Please see the rates and fares page for more information, or contact a Customer Service Representative at 1-866-914-1010. 2h 49m. If I buy a ticket for my vehicle, does that include my fare? Lake Express ferry returning for full 2021 season from Muskegon to The ferry route from Ludington to Manitowoc is serviced by the S.S Badger Lake Michigan Car Ferry Service. Download the 13 ON YOUR SIDE app now. The Lake Express carries vehicles that fall within the guidelines of 8 feet 6 inches tall, 8 feet wide, and 18 feet long. 329 Reviews. Read below to learn more about the ferry routes, alternative driving times, time it takes to cross the lake, and things to see once you cross it. While on board, passengers may wish to walk around or sit outside for a bit. Explore Michigans Heritage Park, tour the restored homes of the Hackley and Hume Historic Site or learn about science through hands-on activities. Each ferry ride to and from the Muskegon Terminal, 1918 Lake Drive, and the Milwaukee Terminal takes about 2 hours. The trip takes 2 1/2 hours. You'll cross the middle of Lake Michigan and see lots of pristine forest and sand dunes along the shores. Crossing Lake Michigan in just 2-1/2 hours, the Lake Express established new standards for Great Lakes ferry . It's striking coastline has inspired sailors, artists, writers, and travelers to embark to its distant corners. [5] They ask that one person drive a vehicle on and that all other passengers walk on. On-site overnight parking is available to Lake Express customers in Muskegon for the cost of $5.00 per day. Halal Restaurant Week to showcase global halal cuisine in Milwaukee, CBS 58 celebrates Independence Day with events throughout SE Wisconsin, CBS 58's One Good Thing: Highland Park survivor throws 1st pitch at Brewers game. There is no need to bring a confirmation or to remember your reservation number as our system keeps track of advance reservations by your name. Lake Michigan Fast Ferry shortcut - Lake Express High Speed Ferry This year, there will only be two trips per day, one from each port, from opening day until the sailing season ends on Sunday, Oct. 11. Motorcycle fares are waived during the spring and fall seasons. People take the Lake Express Ferry from the Port of Milwaukee to Muskegon, Michigan and back. Notifications can be turned off anytime in the browser settings. Lake Express Ferry begins 2023 season; 4 daily crossings Lake Express - Lake Michigan Fast Ferry Shortcut - Schedule If you purchase a product or register for an account through one of the links on our site, we may receive compensation. For those traveling with a vehicle: We ask that only one passenger drives the vehicle on board while the others in the party board on the passenger ramp. The service begins with four daily crossings until the addition of two more evening crossings on June 17. Lake Express passengers will be expected to follow health protocols created from state and federal health guidance. All Rights Reserved. The high-speed ferry goes from downtown Milwaukee right into Muskegon, Michigan. One-tone Lake Express foghorn. Lake Express Ferry celebrates the anniversary of its - OnMilwaukee Toll Free: 866-914-1010. If you're taking the S.S. Badger, you'll be using the port of Ludington, MI, on the Michigan side and Manitowoc, WI on the Wisconsin side. Check-in begins an hour and a half before each departure, and closes 15 minutes before each departure. (MLive file photo)MLive.com. Drive, car ferry 6h 26m. Lake Express. The Baymont Inn and Suites is conveniently located near the county airport and interstates. The food is really limited, the boat itself is pretty small, they have no wifi (unless you upgrade), and it was pretty expensive. The ferry is offering one round trip across Lake Michigan daily from May 20 to Oct. 10. If you are bringing other vehicle types not listed here please call our reservations office Monday-Friday, 7 a.m.-8 p.m. at 1-800-841-4243 to speak with one of our agents. By joining our email list, you give LazyTrips permission to use your email for sending you newsletters, emails and updates including for marketing purposes. Taxis typically will be waiting when the ship docks, or you may call one upon arrival. Below are our top things to see and do on either side of the shoreline. Lake Michigan Carferry. Workers were friendly and knowledgeable. Auto/passenger ferry with seasonal service between Muskegon, MI and Milwaukee, WI. All content Copyright 2023 WDJT. The Lake Express High-Speed Ferry makes the crossing between Milwaukee and Muskegon. Representatives from the company did not respond to MLives queries about other changes to operations that might be a consequence of COVID-19, such as whether the ship will operate at its 250-passenger capacity. Changes to reserved tickets may be made and are subject to the payment of a change fee of $10.00 per Child or Adult fare (1-way or roundtrip) covered by the reservation and $5.00 per Vehicle fare (1-way or roundtrip) covered by the reservation. Each trip across Lake . Both terminals provide fast and easy connections to area attractions and major interstates. If you are a resident of another country or region, please select the appropriate version of Tripadvisor for your country or region in the drop-down menu. [2], Lake Express operates one vessel with a capacity of 250 passengers and 46 vehicles. Lake Michigan car-passenger ferry that runs between Muskegon and Milwaukee. Just like the S.S Badger, you can drive your car right onto the ferry. Once you drive onto the ship or board on the passenger ramp, you will head upstairs to one of the cabins. You must go up to one of the two cabins (or stay outdoors on the top, which is very very windy and cold). The S.S. Badger is an older ship and one of the last ferries in the USA powered by coal. When most people think of lakes, they picture tranquil waters surrounded by visible land on all sides. Select an option below to see step-by-step directions and to compare ticket prices and travel times in Rome2Rio's travel planner. Is there a ferry across Lake Michigan? - LazyTrips Gift cards may be purchased for any dollar amount, redeemable for Lake Express ferry tickets. You need to arrive at the port at least 45 minutes ahead of departure. Explore historical Mackinac Island, hike through Beaver Island, or climb aboard the largest operating passenger steamship in the United States - the S.S. Badger.Tap into your adventurous side, and travel by ferry in one of the Great Lakes during your Pure Michigan vacation. If you're choosing the Lake Express High-Speed Ferry, you'll be using Milwaukee, WI, or Muskegon, MI, as your ports. There are amenities as well as bathrooms on board so you can get out of your car and relax. The Lake Express will cost $108.50 one way without a car and $118 with a car. Fax: (414) 489-9455. info@lake-express.com Visit Website. *Calculated at the time of writing, prices include an adult and a vehicle, single trip. In the spring and fall from the 18th of May to 8th June and the 5th of September to 9th October, the prices will be cheaper. Outside food and beverages are not permitted. It is near the front of the boat on the right side as you face forward. supports HTML5 video. A one-way ticket costs $43 for children and ranges from $91 for active military members, college students and seniors to $99.50 for adults. Enjoy a relaxing stay at Muskegons only waterfront hotel located near numerous attractions and nightlife. Bicycles and infant tickets are exempt from port and security fees. Taking a Ferry Across Part of Americas 3rd Coast. Job Openings at Weigel Broadcasting Milwaukee, The Lake Express Ferry leaves Milwaukee for Muskegon, Michigan for first trip of 2022, Strong storms possible Wednesday with more heat and humidity. A limited number of stand-by spaces may be available for sold out trips - call for details. They will guide you, but be prepared to be closely packed. MUSKEGON, Mich. Daily service for the Lake Express Ferry kicks off on Friday, May 6. It's about a 2 1/2-hour ride, and although the price packs a punch . The vessel itself features an accessible restroom and the vessel itself features an elevator and many other accessibility features. "I think we're going to see a very different attitude with travelers this year. Are wheelchairs available to Lake Express riders? Its the best way to avoid Chicago traffic and enjoy a unique and comfortable experience while traveling to destinations in Wisconsin, Michigan, or beyond.. Our crew does their best to check on your pets, ensuring that your dog or cat has a safe and happy experience. Your vehicle can be transported and you can explore Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Lake Express Muskegon-to-Milwaukee ferry ready to resume Lake - mlive Visit our website for a full schedule of daily crossings and to book your trip. Community Rules apply to all content you upload or otherwise submit to this site. A round trip will cost $155 or $167 with a car. The S.S. Badger ferry, which crosses Lake Michigan from Ludington to Manitowoc, Wisconsin, is also preparing to operate fully this summer. Visit Milwaukee - Lake Express High Speed Ferry Rates - Lake Express - Lake Michigan's high speed auto passenger ferry Cassville (608) 725-5180. . Lake Express provides tie-downs or you may supply your own to secure your motorcycle during travel . The trip takes 2 1/2 . You could face a $1,000 fine, 13 On Your Side Forecast: Hot & Humid Wednesday, School safety grants allocate $1.3 million to 23 West Michigan schools, 23 bags of trash collected by volunteers along Harvey Street in Muskegon County, Muskegon Lumberjacks hopeful after securing spot in conference finals, Departure - 6 a.m. EST | Arrival - 9:30 a.m. CST, Departure - 12:30 p.m. EST | Arrival - 4 p.m. CST, *Departure - 7 p.m. EST | Arrival - 10:30 p.m. CST, Departure - 10:15 a.m. CST | Arrival - 11:45 a.m. EST, Departure - 4:45 p.m. CST | Arrival - 6:15 p.m. EST, *Departure - 11:00 p.m. CST | Arrival - 12:30 a.m. EST. The S. S. Badger Ferry service between Manitowoc, Wisconsin and Ludington, Michigan, costs $85 one way and $155 round trip. It's just a ferry, but TBH, it was a little less average than most bigger ones. The ship also provides the most daily crossings of Lake Michigan with each trip only taking about two-and-a-half hours. The Lake Express Ferry leaves Milwaukee for Muskegon, Michigan for S.S. Badger: Lake Michigan Carferry - Tripadvisor Milwaukee-Muskegon: Vehicle ferry: Lake Express Ferry: $118 *Calculated at the time of writing, prices include an adult and a vehicle, single trip. Cookie Settings/Do Not Sell My Personal Information. To view this video please enable JavaScript, and consider upgrading to a web browser that [2] There are bathrooms in the terminals on both sides and they are easy to walk to from where you wait in your car. Japan will soon release Fukushima radioactive water into the ocean. The ferry drops back down to four daily trips in the fall from Sept. 7 to Oct. 25. Ferry Services | Michigan Recommended Car ferry. You'll pass through big cities like Chicago and Milwaukee and long stretches of empty beaches and coastal countryside. This is also when most festivals and events are taking place in Michigan and Wisconsin. We require that you show one government-issued valid form of photo identification at the time of check-in and ticketing. Prices are about like airport food. 16-year-old dead after Tuesday night shooting near 47th and Burleigh, 1 injured during West Allis fireworks show, The planet saw its hottest day ever this week. Have a news tip? As a point of comparison, the ferry ride across the English Channel is half the time and distance required to take the ferry between Muskegon/Milwaukee.Traveling on the Lake Express is not cheap: for one person the car/cabin/taxes/fees total costs $225, 1 way. It travels 80 miles across Lake Michigan between the Muskegon Terminal, 1918 Lakeshore Drive, and the Milwaukee Terminal. The Muskegon ferry terminal offers convenient location with highway access to US-31 (Grand Haven, Holland, Traverse City) and I-96 (Grand Rapids, Lansing, Detroit), ample parking, free wifi, a comfortable indoor seating area, and plenty of outdoor spaces and views of Muskegon Lake. Book Now - SS Badger The lake can be calm with a surface that looks like glass. A one-way ticket costs $41 for children and ranges from $89 for active military members, college students and seniors to $97.50 for adults.