Celebrate the S.S. Badger Maiden Voyage Weekend on Lake Michigan
![Large ship at sunset labeled 'Maiden Voyage Weekend' May 15th-17th, with playful graphics.]( "Badger Email Banners (5)")
The start of summer is almost here, and the iconic S.S. Badger is ready to kick off the season with our Maiden Voyage Weekend from May 15th to 17th.
Our Port Cities are ready to roll out the welcome mat for the Badger’s first sail of the season, but this special weekend is more than sailing. It’s a celebration of history, lakeside communities, and the start of another summer adventure on Lake Michigan.
Join us in celebrating at welcome events, documentary premieres, and our first ever Open Boat Night! Local restaurants, hotels, and shops are also getting in on the fun with special discounts exclusively for Maiden Voyage Weekend. Let’s take a look at all the events happening this weekend in our Port Cities:
 2024, Badger in Manitowoc |
1. Welcoming and Sending Off the S.S. Badger
Both port cities are kicking off the summer celebrating the S.S. Badger’s Maiden Voyage! On May 15th, community members in Ludington and Manitowoc are invited to wave from the shore as the ship comes and goes for the first time this season. When arriving in Manitowoc at 12:00pm, passengers and community members are welcome to enjoy a portside celebration with food trucks, live entertainment, giveaways, and more! |
 Poster for ‘Railroad on Water’ |
2. Attend the Premiere of the S.S. Badger Documentary
History comes alive during the weekend with premieres of a feature-length documentary, Railroad on Water: The Legend of the S.S. Badger, created by Drayton Blackgrove of Delay In Block Productions.
On Saturday, May 16th the film will have two screenings at the Ludington Area Center for the Arts. Tickets are available for 10am and 4pm showtimes. After the 10am screening, guests are welcome to join a Q&A panel discussion with the film’s director and Badger historians at the Port of Ludington Maritime Museum. The film will also have a Wisconsin Premiere on Sunday, May 17th at 3pm at the UW-Green Bay Manitowoc Campus Theater. This is a great way to learn more about the S.S. Badger’s history and significance on the Great Lakes! Book your tickets here. |
 2025, Passengers enjoying the sunset |
3. Join us for the First Open Boat Night
On Saturday, May 16th, the excitement continues with our first ever Open Boat Night event! After the Badger returns to the Ludington Port for the night, the ship turns into your new favorite hang out spot. Enjoy all the charm of being aboard the Badger without ever leaving the dock!
For only $10, you and your friends are welcome to board the ship, explore the decks, enjoy live music, and soak up the best view in Ludington. Our dining and bar areas will also be open. Don’t forget to swing by the Gift Shop to remember the weekend with a souvenir! |
 Rooms at the Holiday Inn Manitowoc |
4. Hotel and Lodging Specials
Make the weekend a full getaway with hotel deals in both cities!
The Holiday Inn Manitowoc is offering a special rate of $100 per night for the first sailing weekend. The rate includes breakfast and a complimentary shuttle service to and from the Carferry dock. Book early to secure your room here: Holiday Inn Manitowoc Booking.
The Holiday Inn Express & Suites in Ludington is also offering a free room upgrade for guests that show valid Badger tickets at check-in!
Local businesses in both Manitowoc and Ludington will also be offering discounts and specials for Maiden Voyage weekend, so you can enjoy dining, shopping, and attractions along the lakefront. Stay tuned for a full list of offerings. |
The Perfect Weekend Getaway
The S.S. Badger Maiden Voyage Weekend is more than a ferry trip. It’s a chance to turn a weekend into a Great Lake escape. Sail across Lake Michigan, explore vibrant port cities, enjoy food and live entertainment, and take in unique cultural events. With discounted hotels, local business specials, and plenty of activities onboard and onshore, it is the perfect way to celebrate the start of summer. Check out our sample Getaway itineraries for Ludington and Manitowoc!
Join us for the Maiden Voyage and book your adventure now!
