Hoist the sails and cruise Grand Traverse Bay aboard a historic tall ship
2 hours
2-hour sail, captain and crew
Step aboard the tall ship Manitou for an evening cruise on lower West Grand Traverse Bay. Relax under wind power or join the crew in sailing the vessel.
Cancel up to 72 hours before your cruise for a refund. Cancellations within 72 hours and no-shows are non-refundable. Vessels sail rain or shine unless the captain deems conditions unsuitable; refunds are offered if the cruise is canceled for those conditions.
Product ID: Z22T7H
No. Bring your own food if you'd like to eat on board.
Discovery Pier ticket booth
Sailing on the Schooner Manitou or the smaller Scout is one of those experiences that consistently earns glowing praise, and it's easy to see why. Captain Jamie, Captain Mark, and their crews bring a genuinely warm, knowledgeable energy to every trip, whether it's a casual two-hour evening sail or a multi-day overnight adventure. Guests frequently highlight how the crew involves passengers in the actual sailing process, from steering the ship to handling lines, which makes it feel participatory rather than just a boat ride. The food and hospitality get called out repeatedly, with gourmet meals on longer charters and local Moomers ice cream on day sails both earning high marks. Private charters for weddings and group events seem particularly well-handled, with smooth communication and attentive service. One practical note: if you're sailing in the early spring, the below-deck areas can get quite cold, so packing extra layers is worth doing.
As always, the highlight of the time I spend in the Traverse City area.
Patricia Cahalan
September 1, 2026
As always, the highlight of the time I spend in the Traverse City area.
Patricia Cahalan
September 1, 2026
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