Is the cruise suitable for children?

The Manitou Wine Tasting Cruise is designed primarily for adults 21 and over due to alcohol service.

Are food or snacks provided on board?

Light snacks may be available, but guests are encouraged to dine before or after the cruise.

Can I bring my own wine?

Outside alcohol is not permitted on the boat; all wines served are from featured local wineries.

Is the boat wheelchair accessible?

Yes, the vessel is equipped to accommodate guests with mobility challenges; contact in advance for specific needs.

What happens in case of bad weather?

Cruises may be rescheduled or canceled for safety; ticket holders are notified promptly with options for refunds or rescheduling.

Are reservations required?

Yes, due to limited capacity, advance reservations are highly recommended to secure your place on the cruise.

Wine Tasting Cruise on Grand Traverse Bay, Michigan | Boat Tour

Set against the shimmering backdrop of Grand Traverse Bay in Traverse City, Michigan, the Manitou Wine Tasting Cruise offers an unparalleled way to enjoy Michigan’s celebrated wine country. This two-hour voyage invites visitors aboard a comfortable vessel, where they can sip five specially selected wines from acclaimed local wineries. As the boat glides along tranquil waters framed by lush shoreline forests and gentle bayside cliffs, passengers are treated to stunning panoramas that change with the shifting light.

Traverse City sits along Lake Michigan’s eastern shore and is renowned for its microclimate, which supports vineyards flourishing with varietals such as Riesling, Chardonnay, and Pinot Noir. The cruise highlights these regional flavors in curated tastings while providing a front-row seat to the bay’s natural charm—bald eagles soaring overhead, osprey diving for fish, and elusive waterfowl paddling near the surface. The blend of cool lake breezes and sun-dappled decks makes this a refreshing alternative to traditional land-based wine tours.

What sets the Manitou Wine Tasting Cruise apart is its seamless combination of wine appreciation and a close encounter with the bay’s serene environment. It’s ideal for travelers wanting more than just a tasting room experience, offering a perfectly paced journey that nurtures both palate and soul. Locals and visitors alike value this experience as a distinct part of Traverse City’s outdoor and culinary scene, where the water’s presence elevates every sip.

Whether you're a wine enthusiast or a casual traveler, the cruise provides a memorable opportunity to connect with northern Michigan’s evolving viticulture alongside spectacular natural views. This is not only a celebration of taste but a celebration of place, making the Manitou Wine Tasting Cruise a must-do for those seeking a unique lakeside adventure.