Experience the Cherry Festival Air Show from a luxury pontoon boat in Traverse City. Enjoy breathtaking aerial displays and a relaxing day on the water with family and friends.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
Hang tight — photos are loading
This usually takes just a second.
Difficulty
easy
Duration
2–3 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; minimal physical exertion required aside from boarding and potential swimming
Wildlife
History
Traverse City grew as a cherry-growing center, and the air show celebrates the area’s rich festival traditions.
Conservation
The local community actively supports lake health through clean water initiatives and minimizing boat emissions.
Wind Dancer Traverse City Tours
Experience the Cherry Festival Air Show from a luxury pontoon boat in Traverse City. Enjoy breathtaking aerial displays and a relaxing day on the water with family and friends.
Wind Dancer Traverse City Tours operates a fleet of sailing and pontoon experiences on Grand Traverse Bay, offering curated outings for families, couples, and groups. The company specializes in quiet, wind-powered sailing aboard the Wind Dancer schooner for signature sunset and day sails, where guests enjoy the bay with the engine turned off for an immersive nature experience. For guests seeking flexibility, guided private pontoon charters and tri-toon excursions depart from Delamar and include options for ages 4 and up.
Trips range from relaxed Happy Hour Sails across West Bay to special-event charters for the National Cherry Festival Air Show, live-concert nights (Hinder, Buckcherry, Pop Evil, T.I.), and seasonal fireworks cruises including July 4th and the Cherry Festival finale. The fleet includes the Wind Dancer schooner for scenic sailing and Delamar pontoon boats and a tri-toon for guided island adventures and calm-water sightseeing.
Licensed captains and experienced crew lead every cruise, focusing on safety, local knowledge, and guest comfort. Passengers are invited to bring their own food and drinks on most pontoon charters, and many excursions allow swimming when conditions permit. Wind Dancer Traverse City Tours emphasizes clear departure points, age-appropriate options, and memorable views of Traverse City’s shoreline and islands.
Whether booking a private pontoon for a family day at Power Island or reserving seats for a sunset sail, guests can expect professional guidance, scenic routes, and dependable service on Grand Traverse Bay.
Tours Offered
10 Experiences
Sunset, day, happy hour, and event cruises
Family Friendly
Ages 4+
Many charters licensed for children
Boat Variety
Schooner & Pontoons
Wind Dancer schooner and Delamar boats
Event Cruises
Cherry & July 4th
Airshow, fireworks, and concert nights
Select a date, pick a boat, and book a licensed captain for a safe, scenic Grand Traverse Bay experience — popular cruises fill up fast.
Arrive Early to Secure Your Spot
The pontoon boats fill up quickly during the Cherry Festival, so arrive early to ensure a comfortable boarding experience.
Bring Sunscreen and a Hat
Exposure on the water can be intense; protect yourself from the sun with high SPF sunscreen and a wide-brimmed hat.
Wear Non-Slip Shoes
Pontoon decks can get slippery when wet, so wear shoes that provide good traction for safety.
Pack a Towel and Swimwear
If you plan to take a swim, bring swimwear and a towel to dry off comfortably after enjoying a dip in the bay.
Sunscreen
Protects your skin from strong sun exposure while on open water.
summer
Light Jacket or Windbreaker
Keeps you warm against cool lake breezes during early and late season outings.
spring
Non-Slip Footwear
Prevents slips on wet pontoon decking for safe boarding and movement.
Swimwear and Towel
Allows for spontaneous swimming opportunities in the bay during warm weather.
summer