According to reports from Lake Michigan Carferry, the SS Badger ferry experienced an unexpected incident while docking on the evening of Wednesday, September 17, local time. This is the second such accident for the historic ferry in two years. Despite the damage, it will continue to operate as usual.
The incident occurred around 6:50 PM local time on Wednesday as the ferry was docking at the port of Ludington, Michigan. Preliminary investigations suggest that the SS Badger overshot its docking point and collided with its retired sister ship, the SS Spartan, which was moored nearby.
Fortunately, no passengers aboard the four-hour voyage were injured.
The company stated via social media that the crew is assessing the extent of the damage to the SS Badger’s sea gate. Their aim is to determine the repairs necessary for future safe operations.
Despite the collision, service between Ludington and Manitowoc is scheduled to resume as planned at 9:00 AM on Thursday. The summer sailing season, which began in May, is expected to conclude on October 12.
The ferry features a vehicle loading ramp at the stern. However, since the ramp was raised during docking, the extent of its damage remains unclear. The vessel can carry up to 600 passengers and 180 vehicles.
Local maritime enthusiast Travis May shared his perspective on Facebook, noting that the incident was unusual given the sufficient spacing typically maintained between vessels during the docking process.
This is not an isolated incident. As recently as July 2023, the SS Badger accidentally struck its loading ramp due to a mechanical failure. This caused significant operational disruption, even as the ship was celebrating its illustrious 70-year history.
Both ferries, launched in 1952 and 1953 respectively, were once among the largest coal-fired steam car ferries in the United States, measuring 410 feet (125 meters) in length.
Initially used to transport railroad cars across Lake Michigan, this service continued until 1979. The SS Spartan has been retired since the 1980s and now serves primarily as a parts source for its sister ship. Like the SS Badger, which was designated a National Historic Landmark in 2016, it is considered a part of maritime history.
In 2021, Interlake Holding Company acquired both vessels and their operating service, pledging to preserve their traditional operations. Today, they serve not only RVs but also motorcycles and commercial trucks on their scenic approximately sixty-mile lake crossing.
Compiled by Shipping Online.
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