Traverse City Boat Tours
All Things To Do
Experience Lake Michigan on the Water
There's no better way to experience Lake Michigan than directly on the water, and Traverse City offers several options for travelers to do just that. Highly-rated boat tour operators in the area include Nauti-Cat and Traverse Tall Ship Company.
Boat Tours: Nauti-Cat vs. Traverse Tall Ship Company
The main difference between these two companies is that Nauti-Cat is a catamaran, while the Traverse Tall Ship Company operates an old-fashioned schooner. Nauti-Cat offers a variety of cruises, ranging from sunset sails to afternoon outings. In contrast, Traverse Tall Ship Company provides sailing excursions to nearby Manitou Island. Both companies also offer private charters.
Active Sightseeing: Kayak Tours
For a more active sightseeing tour, consider hitting the water on a kayak. The popular River Outfitters rents kayaks and offers tours, including trips down the Boardman River and the unique KaBrew Tour, which combines kayaking and brewery visits. Another kayak and brewery tour hybrid popular in the Traverse City area is Kayak, Bike & Brew, taking visitors along TART trails, into the water, and to participating microbrew pubs.
Tour Pricing and Information
Prices vary depending on the tour you choose:
- Nauti-Cat tours start at $35 per adult.
- Traverse Tall Ship Company tours start at $42 per adult.
- River Outfitters tours are priced at $50 per person.
- Kayak, Bike & Brew tours cost $69 per person.
Hours of operation vary by tour operator. For more details, visit each individual tour operator's website.