Experience the National Cherry Festival Airshow like never before — aboard the Wind Dancer Schooner cruising Traverse City's beautiful bay. Enjoy local food, drinks, and stunning aerial views in this exclusive sailing adventure.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
3–4 hours
Fitness Level
Minimal physical fitness required; reasonable mobility to board and move around the boat is necessary.
Wildlife
History
Traverse City's bay has been a critical maritime hub since the 19th century, supporting local industries like shipping cherries and lumber.
Conservation
Efforts by local groups focus on preserving the fragile shoreline and water quality to maintain a healthy bay environment for future generations.
Wind Dancer Traverse City Tours
Experience the National Cherry Festival Airshow like never before — aboard the Wind Dancer Schooner cruising Traverse City's beautiful bay. Enjoy local food, drinks, and stunning aerial views in this exclusive sailing adventure.
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.
Bring layered clothing
Temperatures on the bay can vary, so dress in layers to stay comfortable throughout the day.
Wear non-slip footwear
Boat decks can be wet and slippery; shoes with good grip are important for safety.
Apply sunscreen
Even on cloudy days, UV rays reflect off the water, so protect your skin with sunscreen.
Arrive early for parking
Parking near the harbor can fill up quickly during the festival—plan to arrive early to secure a spot.
Windbreaker jacket
Keeps you warm and protected from breezes over the water during cooler spring days.
spring
Sunscreen
Vital to protect your skin from UV rays reflecting off the water during summer sailing.
summer
Non-slip shoes
Ensures safety on wet, slippery boat decks throughout the year.
Sunglasses
Reduces glare off the bay so you can enjoy clear views of the airshow and surrounding scenery.
summer