Sail into the Cherry Festival’s grand fireworks finale aboard the Wind Dancer in Traverse City. Experience the excitement of a private sailing adventure with comfort and spectacular views!
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
1.5–2 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for all fitness levels; minimal physical exertion required beyond boarding and standing.
Wildlife
History
Traverse City's Cherry Festival began in 1925 and celebrates the area's rich cherry-growing heritage.
Conservation
Wind Dancer Traverse City Tours prioritizes eco-friendly practices by minimizing waste and using low-impact sailing techniques to protect the bay.
Wind Dancer Traverse City Tours
Sail into the Cherry Festival’s grand fireworks finale aboard the Wind Dancer in Traverse City. Experience the excitement of a private sailing adventure with comfort and spectacular views!
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 for Best Boarding Experience
Plan to arrive at least 15 minutes before departure to ensure smooth boarding and orientation.
Bring Layers for Evening Chill
Even summer nights on the water can get chilly, so pack a light jacket or sweater.
Use Non-Slip Footwear
Wear shoes with a good grip to move safely on the wet deck and during boarding.
Secure Your Belongings
Keep phones, cameras, and personal items secured and protected from water sprays.
Windbreaker or Light Jacket
Keeps you warm against evening breezes on the water.
summer
Non-Slip Shoes
Ensures safe footing on wet or slippery boat surfaces.
Waterproof Phone Case
Protects your devices from water splashes while capturing memories.
Reusable Water Bottle
Stay hydrated during the sail without generating waste.