sailboat tours traverse city mi

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Tall Ship Manitou

Sail back in time.

Sailing out of Traverse City, Michigan, Tall Ship Manitou is a replica of an 1800’s “coasting” cargo schooner, similar to those that sailed the Great Lakes and the Atlantic Ocean.

Are you looking for your adventure in the True North? Have you always wanted to escape on a traditional sailboat?

Come work with us next summer.

Nauti-Cat Cruises

Traverse city boat tours & catamaran cruises, featured cruises.

• Most Popular

Champagne Sunset Cruise

Take in the breathtaking scenery of Traverse City’s wonderful sunsets.

Happy Hour Cruise

Get ready to soak up the sun and take the plunge on our happy hour cruise!

Windjammer Cruise

Join us for our windjammer cruise during the time where the winds on Grand Traverse Bay are most lively!

• Users All ages

Noon Cruise

The sun is at its highest during our Noon Cruise, making it a favorite for sun-bathing and relaxing!

CRUISE CATEGORIES

Daily cruises, speciality cruises, private charter, live music shows.

THE NAUTI-CAT

Get to know the ship

With a passenger capacity of 49, the Nauti-Cat has plenty of room to suit any occasion.

The dimensions of the Nauti-Cat are 47′ long, 29′ wide and a mast 63′ high, making it the largest commercial sailing catamaran on the Great Lakes.

Check out our “Dive-Bar” with 6 taps!

CRUISE SCHEDULE

Established in 1998, the Nauti-Cat has brought enjoyment to many all over the world. Taking everyone from old salts to first-timers, you find yourself relaxed and realizing why you’re on vacation — to be here on the water in West Grand Traverse Bay. Cruises range from 1.5 to 2.5 hours long, depending on the time of day.

OVER 600 FIVE-STAR REVIEWS ON TRIPADVISOR!

Cruise was great

Took the noon cruise. Crew was great. Boat was very clean. . Wonderful day for a cruise. Rum drinks are delicious. Very nice time with friends. Totally relaxing sail. Thought it was really neat that the Nauti-Cat was run by family and friends through the years.

Great time!

Our group of ladies had a blast and everyone said they would do it again. We did the champagne sunset cruise and highly recommend it.

Awesome first experience!

I highly recommend to visitors and Michiganders. Very enjoyable and beautiful scenery. Our captain and first mate were great and everyone we met on the cruise were very friendly.

Great value!

Super fun relaxing way to spend a few hours on the water. Great value! Much cheaper than a conventional sailing cruise for the same kind of adventure. We plan to take more visitors out next summer too!

Great experience!

Nauti Cat came recommended to me from a friend as a must do during our trip to Traverse City. My husband and I did the sunset cruise and enjoyed the staff energy and knowledge of the area. We would definitely do it again during a future visit!

Two Brothers Sailing Adventures

Questions Call or Text Captain Tom 231-715-6088

Welcome Aboard Come Sail With Us On BAYLIFE!

Book Your PRIVATE 2 hour Day / Sunset Sail on Grand Traverse West Bay or 5 hour Sail to Power Island! Swimming Is Allowed!

Book Your Reservation Now!

Questions or need more information  call or text Captain Tom at 231-715-6088 or email at [email protected]

TRAVERSE CITY SAILING CHARTERS is the official sailing charter company for BLACK STAR FARMS INN

Our Mission

Your safety and enjoyment is our top priority. Captain Tom Gorsline personally sails every cruise and strives to provide your private party with an exceptional sailing experience on the crystal clear waters of Grand Traverse West Bay and VIP excursions to nearby, locally famous, Power Island to swim, float on an inflatable pad, or paddle on a SUP.  Captain Tom encourages everyone to feel free to take the helm and learn to sail and have fun on his cruises!  All Cruises will meet, depart, and return to the safe, and accessible boarding dock at Elmwood Marina 12935 S West Bay Shore Drive. Traverse City, MI.  

Captain Tom Gorsline

Captain Tom is a licensed U.S.C.G. Master Captain with an Auxiliary Sailing Endorsement.   He has over 26 years of sailing experience on the Chesapeake Bay and on the Great Lakes and Grand Traverse West Bay.  Tom, along with his wife, Teri, owns BAYLIFE a Catalina 34 mkII and they actively sail on West Bay and spend weekends anchored at Power Island. Tom and Teri are the owners and publishers of BAYLIFE Magazine of Traverse City and are also members of the Grand Traverse Yacht Club, the hub of the vibrant sailing community of Traverse City.  

VIP Cruise Offerings

We excel in exceeding your expectations and all private cruises can be customized for a VIP treatment for romantic sunset cruises, anniversary, birthdays, bridal parties and special occasions.  We furnish a BBQ grill, dining plates, beverage glasses and flatware, to ensure an enjoyable and memorable dining experience for your private party. "Fun Water Toys" for your Power Island Adventure include a floating inflatable pad and a stand up paddle boards or simply layback, read a book and chill!

BAYLIFE is a beautiful and spacious Catalina 34 MKII sailboat that features a large and comfortable seating area and walkthrough transom to access the swim deck and ladder to access the water for swimming.  The lower interior galley and salon provides privacy and spacious room to get out of the sun or private space for relaxing or changing into swim wear.  The onboard restroom (head) features a electric flushing toilet for convince and comfort. 

2-Hour Private Day Cruise on Grand Traverse West Bay - Only $299, price includes private sail for 2 guests, each additional guest add $50 up to 6 guest total.  Bookings available everyday(Monday thru Sunday)  Day Cruise 1 pm -3 pm, 4 pm -6 pm. 

 2-Hour Private Sunset Cruise on Grand Traverse West Bay - Only $325, price includes private sail for 2 guests, each additional guest add $50 up to 6 guest total. Bookings available every evening (Monday thru Sunday) 6:30pm to 8:30pm.   

5-Hour Private Cruise to Power Island - Only $699 for up to 6 passengers of all ages. Bookings available everyday sailing from 1 pm - 5 pm (Limited to 6 passengers total) An earlier 11:00 am departure time can be arranged with Captain Tom if available.

Choose Your Private Cruise on West Bay

5-hour private sail to power island.

Only $699 - 5 Hours - Power Island Private Sail for up to 6 of your friends. Enjoy a day of sailing, swimming and fun with Inflatable Pad & SUP! 

2-Hour Private Day Sail

Only $299 - 2 Hours - Private sail for 2 passengers, each additional guests add $50 up to 6 guest total. 1-3pm, 4-6pm.

2-Hour Private Sunset Sail

Only $325 - 2 Hours - Private sail for 2 passengers, add $50 for each additional passengers up to 6 total. 6:30pm-8:30pm.

PHOTO GALLERY - making awesome summer memories aboard "BAYLIFE"

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Traverse City Sailing Packages

More about the adventure, sailing on second wind.

Come sail on Second Wind and enjoy a beautiful Private adventure on Grand Traverse Bay. We will set sail from the marina and travel at an average speed of 5-6 knots depending on the wind conditions. You can enjoy the view from the bow of Wind or experience the thrill of sailing by taking the helm with guidance from your captain. Comfortable shaded seating is provided in the cockpit. Water and light snacks are provided but you are always welcome to bring your favorites.We request no red wine. Special occasions are always a great opportunity for a memorable experience! We have been honored to host proposals, birthday surprises and special anniversaries!

Grand Traverse Bay

Grand Traverse Bay is a beautiful body of fresh water. It offers 320 square miles of adventure and at it’s deepest point measures over 600 feet. The Bay is home to locally famous Power Island which is always a wonderful destination by boat for the day. The season for optimum sailing is May through October with the water temps reaching 70 degrees, perfect for swimming off the boat!

Explore All Sailboat Charters

2-Hour Private Traverse City Sailing Package

What is the best way to spend a day in Traverse City? Get on the water with a day sail around West Grand Traverse Bay. Sit back and relax while you enjoy the amazing views, or bring your swimsuit, and the captain will anchor for a refreshing swim! Bring your favorite snacks and drinks if you like, but we also offer light snacks and have water and ice on board!  A Sailboat charter on Grand Traverse West bay will provide you and your family with memories for a lifetime! Great for all ages!

$299 for 2 guests / $50 for each additional guest ages 6 and up /$25 for each guest age 5 and under /up to 6 passengers can book.

Special Occasions Sailboat Charter

We would love to help you celebrate a special occasion on board the 2nd WIND! Birthdays, anniversaries, engagements, and even wedding drop-offs are all perfect opportunities to book a private sailboat charter.

Contact us with unique requests so we can help you spend your special day out on the bay!

3 Hour Sail During Thunderbirds Air Show in Traverse City

Returning in 2023 / During the show, the jets perform directly over the Grand Traverse Bay, and you will have the best seat for the show!  Experience the power and thrill of the airshow away from the crowds. It’s a perfect time to bring along a picnic lunch and experience a true sailing adventure.

$650 up to 6 people

By paying for a sailing excursion, you will be supporting our mission to provide underprivileged and at risk youth a no cost excursion for themselves

Book Now Call Us Email Us

Seaside Sailing Excursions & Charity Charters in Traverse City, Michigan

Gift Certificates

Embrace the experience of a lifetime, schedule a tour with our charter sailing company in traverse city, mi.

If taking a charter has been on your bucket list, book your excursion with Seaside Sailing Excursions & Charity Charters. Our company's owners have a lifelong love of the water and a passion for providing the ultimate sailing experience. We offer various excursions off Traverse City, MI's beautiful and pristine coast. Your nautical experience will give you a day of beautiful sailing while supporting a worthy cause. Learn more about our different excursions by visiting our Excursion Services page. Or, create your own experience with a custom excursion with our charter sailing company. We can help you create the marriage excursion of your dreams, reach our now to start planning.

Learn about our mission

Seaside Sailing Excursions & Charity Charters aims to provide our guests with the highest level of safety, comfort and enjoyment while in our care. Proceeds and contributions from our paying boat tour customers will be used to support our charitable mission. Our passion is to provide opportunities for underprivileged and at-risk youth who will benefit from an at-sea experience. These excursions expose children and youth to a potentially life-changing experience they might not otherwise have the opportunity to explore. Want to learn more about our charitable mission? Call 616-437-1711 to ask any questions you have.

Get Married on the Pristine Waters of West Grand Traverse Bay in Traverse, Michigan

Our clergy captain officiates all-inclusive wedding ceremonies, sailing vessel "impulse".

The sailing vessel "Impulse" is an impeccably maintained, modern, well equipped 2006 Catalina C-310 measuring 32'6" in length with a 11'6" beam. She is Coastguard Certified to carry up to 6 paying passengers plus crew and is extremely safe and stable with a 4000 lb, 6'5" deep keel and a total vessel weight of 14,000 lbs. She offers all the creature comforts from cockpit cushions and stern rail seating to protective dodger and sun awnings. The luxurious cabin below is fully plumbed from the private head (bathroom) to electric refrigeration in the galley. She is a joyous, beautiful, and seaworthy vessel.

Captains & Owners with a Passion for Sailing in Traverse City, Michigan!

Our mission, our services, book a charter, book online now, about the captain.

Captain "Ger" is fully licensed and certified by the US Coastguard as a Master Captain and has 50 plus years of nautical sailing and boating experience in both Canada and the United States. He is very capable and knowledgeable as a Captain, and is known for being a jovial, gracious, and friendly host. He has often been likened to Jimmy Buffett. LICENSED & CERTIFIED US COASTGUARD MASTER CAPTAIN

About The Owners

Gerry Shiffman was born and raised in Toronto, Canada where he was introduced to sailing at the age of thirteen. He quickly became infatuated with the sport, and has been expanding his knowledge and fine tuning his skills ever since. Charol Shiffman was born and raised in west Michigan; she was always drawn to the water. Gerry and Charol have been married for thirty three years, and together they have owned and operated multiple sailing vessels, and have charted many nautical miles. They have owned and operated "Impulse" since 2018. With a love of sailing and their passion for bringing joy, comfort, and aid to others, they founded Seaside Sailing Excursions & Charity Charters.

We have a Passion For Sailing

Experience sailing with a purpose..

We are a charter sailing company with a little different Mission. Our top priority is the safety, comfort, and enjoyment of our sailing patrons and crew as we strive to provide you with an exceptional nautical experience. In addition our mission as a Charity Charter is to provide a potentially life changing experience to those under privileged and at-risk youth that might otherwise never have such an opportunity. By signing up for an excursion aboard the sailing vessel "Impulse," you will not only enjoy a beautiful day sailing the pristine Caribbean blue waters of West Grand Traverse Bay off Traverse City, Michigan, you will also be partnering with us in playing a vital role: in assisting us to accomplish our vision.

Our mission is to provide our guests with the highest level of safety, comfort, and enjoyment while they are in our care. Proceeds and contributions from our paying customers will be used to support our charitable mission of providing opportunities for under privileged and at-risk youth who will benefit from an at-sea experience, and to expose them to a visionary potentially life changing experience that they might otherwise never have the opportunity to explore.

• Sailing School
• Featured Yachts
• Charter Management

SPRING 2024 CHARTER DISCOUNTS

• 25% OFF May 14-June 4: 3 or more days
• 10% OFF June 5-June 25: 3 or more days

CAPTAIN CHARTERS

For those times when you want to sit back, relax, and let someone else do the heavy lifting. We can help coordinate hiring a licensed USCG Captain for your trip.

CHARTER FLEET & RATES

“Northern Lights” – Jeanneau 469 (3 cabin)

“Spirited Away” – 2023 Jeanneau 440 (3 cabin)

“Becca T” – 2024 Jeanneau 440 (3 cabin)

“O’Murchadha” 2022  Jeanneau 410 (3 cabin)

2024 Jeanneau 410 (3 cabin)

“Emma Joy”  Jeanneau 419 (3 cabin)

“Ann Gale II” – Jeanneau 41DS

“Resfeber” – 2023 Jeanneau 380

“Water Bear” – 2024 Jeanneau 380

“Themiscyra”  Catalina 385

“Meander” Jeanneau 379

Breezin’ 2016 Catalina 355

“Venteux” Jeanneau 349

“Tivoli” Catalina 320

“Dark Horse” Marlow Hunter 31

“Hippocampus” Hunter 31

“Clara Mae” Hunter 31

Marlow Hunter 22

AM: 11AM – 3PM

PM: 4PM – 8PM

The fiberglass Marlow-Hunter 22 is the ultimate daysailer. This stable platform is rated for five persons and will keep the family safe and dry but will get up and go when you want to run. The large cockpit accommodates the entire crew in comfort.

The Marlow Hunter 22 can be reserved for ½ day or full day (7 hour) sails.

GREAT LAKES SAILING CO.

Since 1983 Great Lakes Sailing Co. has been providing yacht charters on Northern Lake Michigan.

It’s not only our business, it’s our passion.

We continue to provide the best sailing charter fleet on Lake Michigan to cruise the harbors of Grand Traverse Bays, Little Traverse Bay, The Straits of Mackinaw, The Manitou Islands, Beaver Island, the Les Cheneaux Islands and beyond!

CHARTER DISCOUNTS

May 1 – June 4

June 5 – 25

Last Minute

Check eMailer

September 4-17

Sept 18 – End of Season

PUMP & FUEL

Rates include fuel & final pump-out on all sailboats.

ADD TIME TO YOUR CHARTER

Early start.

Board by 2pm. Get Briefing.

Up to 39′  $395

40′ and up $595

SLEEP ABOARD

Board at 8pm. Sleep on Boat.

Morning Briefing.

LATE DEPART

Sleep onboard after final day

of sailing. Depart by 10am.

CHARTER EXTRAS

Captain (up to 4 hrs) $175

Captain (up to 8 hrs) $275

Captain (overnight) $325

Linens $25/per person

Dinghy Outboard $40/day

Dinghy (No charge, but must be requested in advance)

Grill – $25 (includes propane)

CHARTER RESOURCES

Charter documents & booking info, standard yacht inventory, harbor reservations, destinations & itineraries.

12935 S West Bay Shore Dr

Traverse City, Mi 49684

The Discovery offers breathtaking views of the sparkling bay and magnificent shoreline of one of the most beautiful cities in the country.

• panoramic views with versatile seating for up to 149 passengers
• 'comfort while you cruise' climate-controlled indoor main deck with restrooms
• an upper deck with patio-style seating and outdoor observation areas
• 2 bars with food and beverage options
• 3 options for signature daily tours, a calendar of specialty cruises, and the option to private charter for your own unique,  customized event

Our promise to you is beautiful memories with unparalleled hospitality, while also promoting stewardship of our lakes through support of local conservatory programs and our commitment to the environment in every decision we make.

We welcome you aboard and look forward to meeting you!

-The Discovery Team

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Sailing, Biking, & Hiking Tours in Northern Michigan

Located in traverse city on west grand traverse bay, northern michigan tours, specializing in sailing, e-bike and hiking tours.

Experience the bounty of northern Michigan, fun and adventure and the leisurely life and charm of Leelanau County by bike and/or sail. LyfMotiv Adventures specializes in private and semi-private sailing charters on Grand Traverse West Bay, electric-assisted bike tours along the Leelanau Trail , and custom hiking trips for families and groups.

Traverse City Sunset Sails

Traverse city day sailing tour, traverse city - leelanau e-bike & sail combo tour, traverse city guided e-bike & vines tour, private power island sailing adventure, kayak instruction, lyfmotiv adventures, adventure guides on a mission.

In 2020, Eric Clone founded LyfMotiv Adventures in Traverse City, northern Michigan, in the hopes of inspiring others to become curious about the world. As a professional adventure guide, EMT, and wilderness 1st responder, Eric found that working outdoors with others fulfilled his soul and he recognized the life-enriching effects outdoor adventures had on others.

The LyfMotiv Philosophy

Inspiring people to get outdoors.

With years of experience in instructing and guiding, we excel at helping you plan your perfect vacation. Not just any vacation, but truly exceptional trips enriched with inspiring and fulfilling experiences. We want to share our knowledge with others and encourage people to get out into nature. LyfMotiv is about appreciating the great outdoors, making the most of life, and seeing places from a local perspective — the key ingredients to an unforgettable experience.

OUR AMAZON TOURS IN BRAZIL

Specializing in multi-day, immersive, local experiences.

Embark on an adventure of a lifetime and explore the Amazon in all its splendor by boat or by motorbike (opens in a new tab) ! Our Amazon eco tours will take you off the beaten path and introduce you to the authentic local lifestyle as well as the breath-taking nature of the region, all while prioritizing your comfort.

Fishing Trip to Rio Novo

Amazonian motor safari, amazon and tapajos river cruise, hear from our previous guests, brandon w | june 2023, tripadvisor.

Great Adventure! Our experience from beginning to end was amazing! Eric and Matt were a great tour guides! I would highly recommend the biking/sailing adventure!

Unlike any other! Just returned from a trip to South Manitou Island with Eric from Lyfmotiv. The journey was great…but when combined with Eric’s expert knowledge, deep experience, and gentle personality it was unforgettably amazing! Go with him. You will not regret it. He makes a great trip even better.

Paul P | June 2023

Tart Trail e-bike and West Bay sailing tour Eric is a great guide. Very knowledgeable about the area and nature. On time and professional – but fun. Loved this Trip and will go again.

100% win! We chose the ebike-sunset sail and to say we had a blast is an understatement! Eric is a fantastic host! We highly recommend booking – you won’t regret it!

youdidwhat | June 2023

Excellent Experience Amazing experience. Knowledgeable and personable guide. They let our 12 year old son ride his electronic scooter which he loved.

Great and smooth sailing around West Bay! Had a great time sailing down and around West Bay. Smooth times and great calm water as we sailed the coast of Leelanau County. West bay is one of the best places to adventure in Michigan when you want to explore but not to get too far away from the convenances or restaurants of Traverse City.

We had the best time! It was nice to enjoy the area at a slower pace, taking in all the details as we travelled. The E-bikes were comfortable to ride and the paved trail had some lovely views. Lake Michigan is even more beautiful when you are on the bay. In a sailboat. Our guide was very knowledgeable as well as interesting and we learned a lot. Looking forward to the next adventure already!

Can’t wait to go again! This was the best way to experience Northern Michigan I have ever had. What an amazing adventure….water, wind, sand, biking through some of the most beautiful trails in the US! The captain, Eric is amazing. He has a wealth of knowledge and we certainly felt the experience was once in a lifetime.

Just book the trip. You don’t need to read this review.

The five-star rating says it all. It was a great trip! Lyfmotiv did an excellent job of communicating with us leading up to our day on the trail and water. Don’t pass this one up, folks! I’ll be telling people about this mini-adventure for a long time.

Send Us a Message

Book, ask, chat.

THE 5 BEST Traverse City Boat Tours

Boat tours in traverse city.

• Gear Rentals
• Fishing Charters & Tours
• Boat Rentals
• Up to 1 hour
• 1 to 4 hours
• 4 hours to 1 day
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 2.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• H2GO Charters
• Wind Dancer Traverse City Tours
• Grand Traverse Bay
• Boathouse Vineyards
• The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

1. Sunset Sail from Traverse City with Food, Wine & Cocktails

2. Day Sail from Traverse City with Food, Wine, & Cocktails

3. Private Sunset Sightseeing Cruise in Lake Leelanau

4. 6 Hour Tour in Lake Leelanau

5. Private 4 Hour Choose Your Lake Discovery Tour in Traverse City

Keep the fun going with other experiences in the area.

Manistee River Canoeing Day Tour

• Day Sail from Traverse City with Food, Wine, & Cocktails
• 6 Hour Tour in Lake Leelanau
• Sunset Sail from Traverse City with Food, Wine & Cocktails
• Private Sunset Sightseeing Cruise in Lake Leelanau
• Private 4 Hour Choose Your Lake Discovery Tour in Traverse City
• Riding Electric
• The Discovery Traverse City Tours
• Two Brothers Sailing Adventures
• Sailing Yacht Scout - Day Tours
• Nauti-Cat Cruises
• Tall Ship Manitou - Day Tours
• Discovery Cruises
• Wind Sailing
• Traverse City Sail Charters