Can anyone comment on the new ferry out of Milwaukee? Has anyone had a smooth ride? Thanks in advance.

I live in Michigan and have a client in Milwaukee so I have taken the new Ferry at least a dozen times since it started last spring. All but two of my trips were smooth sailing! One of the rough trips was late September last year - at least 75% of the boat was ill! I just sailed last week coming from Milwaukee to Michigan it was rather rough - even though they have purchased a new $400K stabilizer for the ship.

I would say alot depends on the weather. Both times that the water was rough it was either immediately after a storm or during some rainy/stormy weather. I will say that I always get the "Premier" seating, which is enclosed from the rest of the ship - and it seems to be a little more smooth then general seating. It also has an outlet for your laptop if you want to work while you ride or watch a DVD.

A new addition to the "premier" seating - cheesecake at the end of the trip!

If you plan to take your car book far ahead! Once school lets out the ship is FULL! I have never had a problem getting on the ship myself, but was only able to take my car across once last year - and that was the 7am departure from MKE.

Happy sails to you!

I have not rode yet but will in July. Even after the news report (I live near it) that the ferry smacked a wave and the ramp came off or something and landed on the cars. (I did not memorize the details) I expect a rough Great Lakes ride in July but that is part of the adventure.

smooth? I was just told that some sort of devices were installed to make it a smoother ride now.

ttt

Hi - me again - I had just posted in late May regarding the ride on the Ferry - since then I sailed 3 roundtrips. All were smooth. I don't know what other sort of validation you are looking for, but it is not rough unless there are storms between MI and MKE

We took both in July 2005. The Lake express was very windy top side. Crowded and feared we would not be able to sit together. Drive yourself on and off (good thing) Minimal entertainment. Fast so as to take the edge off the anticipation thus a good choice for the first leg going and getting there quicker. Very nice port in Michigan with lots to do in the vicinity. Arrival time less critical.
The Badger. Better arrive 1 hour early at least or risk a mad rush. Kids drive your vehicle on and off (can be bad, mirrors etc) Big ship to include semi trucks and mishaps off loading (1 hour delay) Much different cruise experience. Never feel crowded. Big undertaking assortment of entertainment More ocean liner like. Very pleasant sail. Extra time to cross went unnoticed.
Over all I would say the sailing experience goes to the Badger. I would do it again. The effiency get me there cuz I don't like the trip goes to the Lake express.
I had the most wierd experience with the Badger. I originally arrived in Wisconsin about 11:20 pm. I went past Manitowoc again in the day time on a Sunday so I decided to return to the dock for some day time photos for the album. I could not help but notice that there were 5 cars there with people in them waiting for their departure. I even asked the ticket agents if this is normal. She said in a not surprised fashion - ya. usually about 10 cars. What is so odd about all of this? It was over 5 hours early! These people apparently planned to sit and wait in the cars for 5 hours! I do not know if this speaks of the peoples lives or the appeal of the Badger. You be the judge.