Set sail with Keweenaw Boat Tours LLC for a 2.5-hour voyage through some of Michigan’s finest fall colors. Sip hot cider and watch the Portage Canal's fiery foliage unfold from the comfort of the SWEET AFTON.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
Hang tight — photos are loading
This usually takes just a second.
Difficulty
easy
Duration
2.5 hours
Fitness Level
Minimal physical fitness required; suitable for most ages and mobility levels with caution.
Wildlife
History
The Portage Canal, completed in 1901, improved water transport between interior lakes and Lake Superior, supporting the region's copper mining heyday.
Conservation
Keweenaw Boat Tours emphasizes eco-friendly practices by limiting group sizes and educating passengers on local waterway health.
Keweenaw Boat Tours LLC
Set sail with Keweenaw Boat Tours LLC for a 2.5-hour voyage through some of Michigan’s finest fall colors. Sip hot cider and watch the Portage Canal's fiery foliage unfold from the comfort of the SWEET AFTON.
Keweenaw Boat Tours LLC is a Houghton, Michigan–based operator offering water and trolley experiences around the Portage Canal and Portage Lake. The company’s public offerings include pedal trolley tours, private pedal trolley bookings, a dinner cruise, and seasonal fall color cruises aboard the SWEET AFTON, a spacious 60‑foot dinner boat.
The Keweenaw Pedal Trolley is available as a private 1.5‑hour option for groups seeking an exclusive outing and as a mixer tour that pedals along the Portage Lake waterfront. The mixer tour highlights waterfront scenery and historic architecture and invites guests to bring their own food and drinks and pedal to their favorite tunes.
The Dinner Cruise navigates the Portage Canal out to Lake Superior, combining scenic waterway views with a menu that features local dishes tailored to the Portage Dinner Cruise experience. The Fall Color Tours run for 2.5 hours on the SWEET AFTON and include seasonal treats such as apple cider, hot chocolate, and donuts while passengers view autumn foliage.
Trip descriptions list durations, key highlights, and what guests can expect on each sailing and ride. Reservations are recommended for private pedal trolley bookings and for seasonal fall cruises. Keweenaw Boat Tours LLC operates in and around Houghton and the Portage Canal, serving visitors who want maritime sightseeing, group outings, scenic dining, and seasonal foliage cruises. This factual summary reflects the named trips, routes, durations, and amenities advertised for each listed experience.
Additional practical details and booking instructions are available with each trip description from the operator directly.
Location
Houghton, MI
Portage Canal & Portage Lake
Group Options
Private & Mixer
Private 1.5‑hour pedal trolley available
Signature Vessel
SWEET AFTON — 60 ft
Spacious 60‑foot dinner boat
Trip Durations
1.5–2.5 hours
Short scenic and seasonal cruises
Check availability for private 1.5‑hour pedal trolley tours, mixer rides, dinner cruises, and 2.5‑hour fall color sailings aboard the SWEET AFTON.
Dress in Layers
Temperatures on the water can be cooler than on land—bring a warm jacket and layers to stay comfortable.
Bring a Camera
The boat offers unparalleled photo opportunities of fall foliage reflected on calm water—don’t forget your camera or smartphone.
Arrive Early
Plan to arrive at the dock behind Dee Stadium at least 15 minutes before departure for check-in and boarding.
Watch Your Step
Boat decks can be slippery, especially in damp or cooler weather—wear shoes with good traction and use handrails when boarding.
Warm Jacket
Essential for keeping comfortable against the brisk air on the open water.
fall
Camera or Smartphone
Capture the rich autumn colors and reflections on the water.
Non-Slip Footwear
Provides safe footing on potentially slippery boat decks.
Sunglasses
Helps reduce glare off the water during sunny fall afternoons.
fall