Adventure Brief
Discover Michigan’s iconic Mackinac Bridge from the water with Ugly Anne Boat Cruises. Enjoy a serene evening cruise filled with breathtaking views and local stories in Mackinaw City.
1.5–2 hours
easy
From $30.74
Family Friendly
Discover Michigan’s iconic Mackinac Bridge from the water with Ugly Anne Boat Cruises. Enjoy a serene evening cruise filled with breathtaking views and local stories in Mackinaw City.
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
1.5–2 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for all fitness levels as the activity requires minimal physical exertion.
Wildlife
History
The Mackinac Bridge, completed in 1957, is one of the longest suspension bridges in the world, connecting Michigan’s Upper and Lower Peninsulas.
Conservation
Efforts are in place to minimize boat wake impact on fragile shoreline ecosystems and maintain water quality in the Straits.
Ugly Anne Boat Cruises
Discover Michigan’s iconic Mackinac Bridge from the water with Ugly Anne Boat Cruises. Enjoy a serene evening cruise filled with breathtaking views and local stories in Mackinaw City.
Ugly Anne Boat Cruises operates from Mackinaw City, Michigan, offering guided sightseeing and sunset cruises beneath the Mackinac Bridge. The company runs the Ugly Anne II and the vessel Ugly Anne for scheduled departures that highlight scenic views of the Straits of Mackinac and Lake Michigan. Trips include a Mackinac Bridge Cruise for serene evening views, a Mackinaw City and Mackinac Bridge History Cruise that explores shipwrecks and Native American lore, and a Sunset Cruise Mackinaw City with music and optional beverages.
Each cruise emphasizes safe, informative, and memorable passages under the bridge, with crew members providing facts and context about local maritime history. The one-hour history and sunset cruises are timed to maximize views and storytelling. Departure times for sunset cruises vary between 6 and 9 PM, offering flexibility for evening plans.
The business focuses on delivering accessible experiences for visitors to northern Michigan, combining relaxation with cultural and natural interpretation. As a locally based operator, Ugly Anne Boat Cruises serves both tourists and residents seeking on-water perspectives of the Mackinac Bridge and surrounding shoreline. Booking is available through the operator's scheduling channels, and travelers are encouraged to confirm departure times and availability in advance. Safety briefings and standard passenger procedures are observed on each departure to ensure a consistent guest experience. Ugly Anne Boat Cruises provides a straightforward way to experience Mackinaw City waterways, iconic bridge views, and regional history from the water. Customers should review weather advisories and vessel capacity details before booking to plan accordingly safely.
Location
Mackinaw City
Departure point for all cruises
Vessels
Ugly Anne II & Ugly Anne
Two named vessels available
Trip Length
1 hour (selected trips)
History and sunset cruises are one hour
Tours Offered
3 cruise options
History, bridge, and sunset cruises
Select a history or sunset cruise, confirm departure times, and secure spots for an unforgettable on-water experience.
Arrive Early for Boarding
Plan to arrive at least 15 minutes before departure to ensure smooth boarding and seating.
Dress for the Breeze
Even summer evenings can be chilly on the water, so layer up to stay comfortable during the cruise.
Bring a Camera
The cruise offers spectacular photo opportunities of the bridge and surrounding landscapes, so don’t forget your camera or smartphone.
Limited Restroom Access
Restroom facilities on board are limited, so plan accordingly before boarding.
Layered Clothing
Helps you stay comfortable against cool breezes on the water.
spring
Sun Protection
Sunscreen, sunglasses, and hats protect you during sunny afternoon cruises.
summer
Camera or Smartphone
Capture stunning photos of the bridge, water, and sunset views.
Windbreaker Jacket
Blocks wind and keeps you warm during cooler autumn evenings.
fall