Adventure Brief
Cruise West Bay with live birds of prey and learn about raptor conservation in Traverse City. This family-friendly tour offers up-close encounters and stunning natural views.
1–1.5 hours
easy
Family Friendly
No Experience Required
Cruise West Bay with live birds of prey and learn about raptor conservation in Traverse City. This family-friendly tour offers up-close encounters and stunning natural views.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
1–1.5 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for all ages and fitness levels; mostly seated on the boat
Wildlife
History
Traverse City has long been a hub for freshwater outdoor activities since its settlement in the 19th century.
Conservation
The tours promote awareness and funding for raptor rescue and habitat preservation in the Great Lakes region.
Nauti Cat
Cruise West Bay with live birds of prey and learn about raptor conservation in Traverse City. This family-friendly tour offers up-close encounters and stunning natural views.
Nauti Cat is a Traverse City, Michigan catamaran operator offering a diverse lineup of public and private cruises on West Grand Traverse Bay. Operating the large Nauti-Cat catamaran, the company specializes in short recreational sails, themed events, and family-friendly outings.
Public departures include the Happy Hour Cruise featuring sailing participation and the Shot-Ski, the family-focused Kids Cruise where children can raise sails and steer, and the Champagne Sunset Cruise with complimentary champagne while sailing past homes on Old Mission Peninsula. Daytime options include Noon and Early Noon Cruises ideal for sunbathing and relaxed sailing, with speeds up to 14 knots noted on some departures. Special event sails range from the Fireworks Cruise and National Cherry Festival Air Show viewing to live entertainment nights such as Dixon's Violin and burlesque variety shows aboard the largest catamaran.
Amenities on board commonly include nets for lounging, a full cash bar on daytime sails, and crew-led sailing activities that engage guests of all ages. Departure and route details focus on West Grand Traverse Bay and sights along Old Mission and Leelanau peninsulas. Featured on The Adventure Collective, Nauti Cat attracts both locals and visitors seeking memorable waterborne experiences in Traverse City. Safety-conscious operations and themed programming make the Nauti-Cat a reliable choice for groups, families, and visitors seeking sightseeing, sunset views, or event-based cruises on Grand Traverse Bay. Scheduled departures operate throughout the summer season with options for private charters and special-event bookings tailored to group size and occasion available upon advance reservation today.
Location
Traverse City
Operates on West Grand Traverse Bay
Tours Offered
10 Tours
Public and special-event sails
Trip Durations
1.5–2 hours
Short excursions and sunset sails
Featured On
The Adventure Collective
Curated local tourism listing
Book family sails, champagne sunset cruises, or special-event viewings on West Grand Traverse Bay — limited seats available.
Bring binoculars
Enhance your view of distant birds and shoreline wildlife with a good pair of binoculars.
Dress for lake wind
The bay can be chilly and breezy even in summer; layers and a windbreaker are recommended.
Arrive early
Get settled on the boat and hear a safety briefing before the cruise departs on schedule.
Respect wildlife guidelines
Follow the sanctuary staff’s instructions to avoid disturbing the raptors during flight demonstrations.
Windbreaker or light jacket
Protects you from the cool breeze over the water during the cruise.
summer
Binoculars
Improves your chance to spot birds and details of the coastline from the boat.
Sun hat and sunscreen
Provides sun protection while on deck for the trip.
summer
Camera with zoom lens
Capture memorable photos of flying raptors and scenic views of West Bay.