Join the Nauti-Cat for an exclusive boat tour during Traverse City's National Cherry Festival Air Show. Experience thrilling aerial displays and savor cherry-inspired treats on the water.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
2–3 hours
Fitness Level
No special fitness required; suitable for most ages and mobility levels
Wildlife
History
Traverse City is renowned for its rich cherry farming history, celebrated annually during the National Cherry Festival.
Conservation
Efforts by local groups focus on protecting Grand Traverse Bay through sustainable boating practices and habitat preservation.
Nauti Cat
Join the Nauti-Cat for an exclusive boat tour during Traverse City's National Cherry Festival Air Show. Experience thrilling aerial displays and savor cherry-inspired treats on the water.
Nauti Cat is a Traverse City, Michigan catamaran operator offering a diverse lineup of public and private cruises on West Grand Traverse Bay. Operating the large Nauti-Cat catamaran, the company specializes in short recreational sails, themed events, and family-friendly outings.
Public departures include the Happy Hour Cruise featuring sailing participation and the Shot-Ski, the family-focused Kids Cruise where children can raise sails and steer, and the Champagne Sunset Cruise with complimentary champagne while sailing past homes on Old Mission Peninsula. Daytime options include Noon and Early Noon Cruises ideal for sunbathing and relaxed sailing, with speeds up to 14 knots noted on some departures. Special event sails range from the Fireworks Cruise and National Cherry Festival Air Show viewing to live entertainment nights such as Dixon's Violin and burlesque variety shows aboard the largest catamaran.
Amenities on board commonly include nets for lounging, a full cash bar on daytime sails, and crew-led sailing activities that engage guests of all ages. Departure and route details focus on West Grand Traverse Bay and sights along Old Mission and Leelanau peninsulas. Featured on The Adventure Collective, Nauti Cat attracts both locals and visitors seeking memorable waterborne experiences in Traverse City. Safety-conscious operations and themed programming make the Nauti-Cat a reliable choice for groups, families, and visitors seeking sightseeing, sunset views, or event-based cruises on Grand Traverse Bay. Scheduled departures operate throughout the summer season with options for private charters and special-event bookings tailored to group size and occasion available upon advance reservation today.
Location
Traverse City
Operates on West Grand Traverse Bay
Tours Offered
10 Tours
Public and special-event sails
Trip Durations
1.5–2 hours
Short excursions and sunset sails
Featured On
The Adventure Collective
Curated local tourism listing
Book family sails, champagne sunset cruises, or special-event viewings on West Grand Traverse Bay — limited seats available.
Arrive Early for Best Seating
Arriving early ensures you secure a prime spot on the boat’s deck for unobstructed views of the air show.
Bring Sunglasses and Sunscreen
Protect your eyes and skin from sun exposure while enjoying the open deck on warm summer days.
Wear Comfortable Footwear
Non-slip, comfortable shoes are recommended for moving safely around the boat.
Check Weather Forecast
Weather can change quickly on the water, so check conditions in advance and dress accordingly.
Sunglasses
Protect your eyes from glare off the water during bright days.
summer
Light Jacket or Windbreaker
Keep warm against cool breezes coming off the lake.
spring
Non-slip Shoes
Ensure safety while moving on the wet deck of the boat.
Camera
Capture stunning aerial performances and scenic water views.