Voices of the Vessel

The BADGER is a very unique vessel and her docking system is no exception. One of our Chief Engineers, Andy VerVelde, joins us as we talk about the history of docks, how it operates, and how the docks have updated over the years. We appreciate everyone who has reached out and sent well wishes during this time as we work towards repairing our dock. In partnership with Pure Ludington and Visit Manitowoc.

Stargazing, sunsets, sunrises and more await you on the overnight sailing on the BADGER. Relax and experience Lake Michigan while listening to the water and sounds of the ship. After a three-year hiatus, the Crew of the BADGER is ecstatic to bring back this opportunity for our passengers to enjoy. Listen to this week's episode to learn more. In partnership with Pure Ludington and Visit Manitowoc.

Time and time again, we hear that the BADGER's horn is the sound of summer. Everyone knows her sound, but did you know that her horn originated in Two Rivers, WI? Kahlenberg Industries is well known for Marine Signaling across the United States and in over 30 countries worldwide. Erick Kahlenberg joins us to talk about the history of the company, its operations, and notable achievements. It's not every day you find a 70-year-old horn still in operation. In partnership with Pure Ludington and Visit Manitowoc.

When it comes to Carferry history, Art Chavez is the historian to know. A Milwaukee native, he began riding and researching the ferries at a young age and has never looked back. He's written multiple books and just released the second edition of "Images of America: S.S. Badger Lake Michigan Carferry". The beloved book was originally published in 2003 and now will include more history and color photos. He's not just known for his books, he has also helped uncover what was thought to be a long-lost artifact of carferry history. Listen to why Art loves the carferries, his favorite memories, and more. In partnership with Pure Ludington and Visit Manitowoc. 

Over the years, the BADGER has benefited from having K9 search dogs who serve to keep everyone safe. Our dogs, Mika and Dara, have served for 8 and 7 years respectively, and this past year we were delighted to introduce our two newest K9 team members, Hans and Greta. Along with their handlers, Dean, Chuck, Steve, and Ian, they make a dynamic team. Learn more about where the dogs come from, their training, and what the handlers enjoy most about the job. In partnership with Pure Ludington and Visit Manitowoc.

Mike Braybrook is retired from the Engine Room on the BADGER and got his start while working for the C & O Railway. During his tenure onboard, he learned a lot and experienced some neat things. Listen to some of his favorite memories and why he loved working for the Carferries. In partnership with Pure Ludington and Visit Manitowoc.

Kevin Diedrich is the only known BADGER employee who has worked every position in the Engine Room and today is a Chief Engineer. A Manitowoc native, he originally didn't have the BADGER on his radar. He has spent more than 20 years as a vital part of the Crew. Learn more about what it's like to be a part of the Engine Room Crew and what he loves about the BADGER. In partnership with Pure Ludington and Visit Manitowoc.

Justin Nickels has been the Mayor of Manitowoc since 2009 and has spent the last 18 years in public service to his hometown. In fact, when he became the Mayor in 2009, he was the youngest full-time Mayor in the Country. Learn more about Manitowoc, some history,  why Manitowoc is Wisconsin's Maritime Capital, and how Manitowoc embraces the BADGER. In partnership with Pure Ludington and Visit Manitowoc.

Mitch Foster has been the Ludington City Manager since 2019. He grew up in the area and moved away but was happy to come back and raise his family in Ludington. His wife, Becky, is from Wisconsin and the BADGER has become an integral part of their lives to see family. Listen more about what they love about Ludington, what it's like sailing with their kids and what the BADGER means to them. In partnership with Pure Ludington and Visit Manitowoc. 

Joe Fischer has a storied career of ship building on the Great Lakes - all starting in Sturgeon Bay, WI. Retired from Bay Engineering, he got his start working for the Christy Corporation and helped design and start the build of what would become the SPARTAN and BADGER. Listen to what Joe enjoyed about Naval Architecture, some ships he has worked on and what he enjoys about the BADGER. In partnership with Pure Ludington and Visit Manitowoc.