Major updates being made on Badger; first sailing is May 16

Ludington — The installation of the first phase of the S.S. Badger’s new combustion control component of the multi-million dollar ash retention system aboard the historic ship is underway and will be completed before the start of the 2014 sailing season on May 16, according to a statement from the Badger’s owner, Lake Michigan Carferry.

The changes will bring the ship into compliance with the federal government-ordered consent decree. The changes will end the discharge of ash by the start of the 2015 sailing season. A sophisticated combustion control system is being installed this winter and is the first phase of a multi-million dollar ash retention system. The second phase will be completed during the winter of 2014 – 2015.

”This technology has never been executed on a coal fired steam ship. The new combustion system will allow the ship to be more efficient – burning less coal and generating less ash,” Chuck Leonard, vice president of navigation for LMC said.

“Researching, designing and implementing new combustion controls is an involved process,” said Chief Engineer Charles Cart. “Removing the old equipment and installing the new in the course of our brief off-season while continuing the cycle of maintenance to the machinery, hull and appearance of a ship is a major challenge. Accomplishing all of this over an unusually hard winter demonstrates the high level of personal dedication and community involvement typical of our crew and supporting contractors here in Ludington.”

This season will also see an earlier daily departure time of 8:30 a.m. from Ludington.

LMC is offering pre-season specials, which include adult one way fare of $65. For a limited time, two adults and auto can travel one way for only $199. The specials will only be available through May 16, which is the first day of sailing.