Top Traverse City Water Tours

Transform your evening into an unforgettable northern Michigan memory with a scenic sunset cruise aboard the Harbor Princess. Glide across the sparkling, tranquil waters of Lake Charlevoix and take in breathtaking panoramic views as the sky shifts into a vibrant canvas of evening colors.

Traverse City lies right on the water, so it’s only natural to find a few activities that let you take advantage of its location while you’re there. This Grand Traverse Bay All-Inclusive Daytime Sailing Experience lets you set sail in a schooner, while you relax with awesome bay views. If you’d like you can help with the sailing process and learn about the area, too.

Known for its wineries and picturesque lake views, Old Mission Peninsula is a must-visit for wine lovers. By joining this winery tour, you can visit four of the Peninsula’s wineries and enjoy round-trip transportation from Traverse City. That way, everyone in your group can indulge in wine and enjoy the scenery without worrying about driving.

The very comfortable captain-chauffered Tritoon Pontoon boat offers you, your family, and friends a great way to get out on the water and enjoy the bay safely. The pontoon has a cooler full of ice waiting for you! Bring food, drinks, sunscreen, towels, and water toys, and have the fun you deserve on the brilliant blue water of the Grand Traverse Bay. You can head to Power Island for some swimming fun or tuck into a beach for the best of both worlds. This pontoon is actually a tri-toon, which means there are three tubes instead of two, making this ride super comfortable, smooth, stable and fast. Our highly trained captain is at your service! There may be an opportunity to swim, weather and wind permitting.

If you’ve never been to Michigan’s wine country, then this tour of the Old Mission Peninsula is one experience you’ll savor. Not only will you drink in views of winding country roads and gentle slopes against a coastal sunset, but you’ll also sip on wine from 3 of the highest rated wineries in the state. Taste flights of wine alongside locally crafted cheeses. See stunning bay views from a vineyard estate. Marvel at a beautiful sunset with wine in hand.

The Princess offers a wonderful way to enjoy the bay, with an expansive, fully open upper deck on top where you can soak up the sunshine, fresh air, and spectacular Northern Michigan skies. Prefer a little more shelter? The enclosed main deck features panoramic windows that slide open, allowing you to enjoy the scenery and a refreshing lake breeze while staying comfortable. As you cruise along the shoreline, relax with a drink from our fully stocked bar and choose from a selection of snacks available for purchase.

What makes this tour truly unique is the opportunity to experience the thrill of sailing on the stunning Grand Traverse Bay aboard the luxurious Sail Yacht Scout, all within an intimate, private setting for up to 6 people. Unlike crowded tours, this is your chance to customize your adventure. Whether you want to relax and soak in the breathtaking scenery, or actively participate in sailing this magnificent yacht, the choice is yours. Learn the ropes, take the helm, and feel the wind in your hair as you explore the bay, all while enjoying complimentary snacks and beverages. Plus, you have the freedom to bring your own favorite drinks and refreshments to make the experience perfectly tailored to your taste. This isn't just a boat tour; it's your own personalized sailing adventure.

Enjoy seeing sunset over the water, with a drink in your hand, on this group sightseeing cruise. Set sail for incredible views over Traverse City, Michigan, and listen to the captain and crew tell you all about the schooner you’re sitting on. Sample local food like raclette cheese with crackers, and fudge, while you sit back, relax, and soak up the atmosphere.

Join us for an unforgettable guided jet ski tour to Power Island, one of Traverse City’s hidden gems. This exhilarating ride across the crystal-clear waters of West Grand Traverse Bay is led by experienced guides and combines thrill, scenery, and a splash of local history. Your safety is a top priority. Each tour operates with a small group (up to five jet skis) and follows a strict safety program that meets—and often exceeds—industry standards. Whether you’re brand new to jet skiing or a seasoned rider, an expert team will ensure you’re fully prepared. With a detailed safety briefing, on-water instruction, and ongoing supervision, you’ll feel confident and in control throughout your ride. Once at Power Island, you’ll have time to explore its pristine beaches, take a swim in the clear waters, or simply relax in the peaceful surroundings before heading back across the bay. It’s the perfect blend of adventure and nature.

This isn't just a boat tour, it's an experience sailing the scenic West Grand Traverse Bay! Scout is the best way to see the Traverse City waterfront from a breathtaking perspective, taking in iconic landmarks like the historic Park Place Hotel and the Great Lakes Maritime Academy, complete with its impressive training vessel. Onboard our gleaming sail yacht, you can live the dream of having your own boat, complete with our expert captain! But it's more than just sightseeing! You have the chance to be an active participant. Whether you're a seasoned sailor or a complete novice, our crew is ready to guide you in taking the wheel, setting the sails, and learning the ropes. Or, if you prefer, simply relax and soak in the stunning scenery. To top it all off, enjoy complimentary snacks and soft drinks while you're on board. Feel free to bring your own alcoholic beverages and meals to personalize your sailing adventure. This is your chance to create unforgettable memories on the water!

Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore covers an enormous amount of land. Go with a guide during this Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore Tour from Traverse City and cover the most beautiful areas and outlooks without having to worry about getting lost along the way. See Empire Bluffs, Scenic Pierce Stocking Drive, Glen Lake Overlook, and Sleeping Bear Dune Overlook.

Embark on a captivating 2-hour morning sail that delves into the rich history and enduring connection between the Anishinaabe people and Grand Traverse Bay. Join Tera John, a Knowledge Carrier and Story Keeper from the Grand Traverse Band of Ottawa and Chippewa Indians, as your guide aboard the Manitou. Experience the Bay through the eyes of its ancestral residents, learning about its vital role in their lives and culture since time immemorial.

Visiting new wineries is always an enjoyable experience, but if you have to figure out rides from one winery to the next, it can be difficult if everyone in your group is drinking. This Leelanau Peninsula Wine Tour from Traverse City takes care of the rides for you—and the winery reservations, too. Visit four popular wineries along the Leelanau Peninsula, and take in stunning views.