I’ve made the drive from southern Michigan to southern Wisconsin more times than I can count. Sometimes traffic is light, and I can make the trip in under seven hours. Other times I have found myself locked in a colossal traffic jam on I90 without moving for more than an hour. I like to avoid this drive whenever possible. In this avoidance effort I have two options – Amtrak and Lake Express. I use Amtrak in the winter, and Lake Express during the summer.
Lake Express is a high-speed auto ferry that links Muskegon, Michigan and Milwaukee, Wisconsin. The total trip takes about two and a half hours. Since discovering this wonderful option, I have been a regular rider.
Car or No Car
I’ve taken my car on Lake Express several times. The boarding and exit process is quite simple. The staff do a great job guiding you on and off the vessel and helping you park. There are spaces for cars, trucks, trailers and motorcycles. For riders who opt to travel without a vehicle, there are car rental options available at the terminals in both Milwaukee and Muskegon.
Pets Allowed
You can bring pets aboard. However, they do need to remain on the vehicle deck in pet kennels for the duration of the crossing. I’ve seen many happy tails when pets are reconnected with their people at the end of the trip.
While On Board
There are two cabins on the Lake Express – Classic and Premier. Both cabins have access to the cafe which serves a variety of snacks, light meals and drinks. While en route, passengers may view the movie of the day, or go outside to enjoy the passenger decks. The upper deck is my favorite, but be ready for some strong winds mid-lake. I’ve been up there in nearly 40 mph winds. It’s a rush, but make sure you’re ready for it.
Premier Cabin
I have traveled in both cabins, but premier is my choice when the classic cabin is packed or when I need some quiet. Premier costs a bit more, but you receive a free drink (non-alcoholic), WIFI, and have the luxury of a much smaller cabin.
Smooth Sailing?
I’ve experienced crossings that were perfectly smooth. I’ve also experienced five foot waves that rendered almost all of us (crew included) lying prostrate on the floor. I’m happy to report that I’ve only experienced the latter once in my nearly thirty crossings. If the water is going to be rough, you can expect a call from the Lake Express office either letting you know the crossing has been cancelled, or giving you the option to reschedule. If you are unsure of how you’ll respond to the water movement, take some motion sickness medicine before departure.
The Lake Express is not cheap. Prices vary depending on cabin selection, type of vehicle you’re bringing (or not bringing), and fuel surcharges. However, when my other option is a Chicago traffic jam, I’ll pay the extra money.
Bonus tip: My favorite part of the westbound trip is going to the top deck about thirty minutes out of Milwaukee. I love watching the skyline of that marvelous city come into view.