Enjoy the Cherry Festival fireworks from the best seat on the water with a private pontoon charter in Traverse City. Perfect for families and friends looking for a safe, unforgettable lakeside celebration.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
2–3 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for all fitness levels as the activity involves mostly sitting and gentle movement, with optional swimming.
Wildlife
History
Traverse City grew as a hub for cherry farming, which is celebrated annually with the Cherry Festival, including fireworks on the bay.
Conservation
Wind Dancer Traverse City Tours practices eco-friendly boating to minimize impact, encouraging guests to support local water conservation efforts.
Wind Dancer Traverse City Tours
Enjoy the Cherry Festival fireworks from the best seat on the water with a private pontoon charter in Traverse City. Perfect for families and friends looking for a safe, unforgettable lakeside celebration.
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.
Book Early for Fireworks Dates
The Cherry Festival finishes attract many visitors, so reserving your pontoon charter well in advance ensures availability.
Bring Layers for Evening Chill
Temperatures drop quickly on the water after sunset, so pack a light jacket or blanket to stay warm during the fireworks show.
Use Reef-Safe Sunscreen
Protect the bay’s ecosystem by applying reef-safe sunscreen to safeguard water quality during swimming stops.
Arrive at the Dock Early
Plan to arrive 15 minutes before departure to allow time for check-in and safety briefing.
Light Jacket or Windbreaker
Keeps you warm during cooler evening breezes on the water.
summer
Waterproof Phone Case
Protect your devices from accidental splashes or brief swimming stops.
Reef-Safe Sunscreen
Protects your skin and preserves the bay’s water quality.
summer
Swimsuit and Towel
Ideal for taking refreshing dips during swimming opportunities.
summer