Set sail on the Ugly Anne for a captivating sunset cruise across Lake Michigan, with stunning views of the Mackinac Bridge. Perfect for unwinding and soaking in lake magic, this one-hour sail is a highlight of Mackinaw City adventures.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
Hang tight — photos are loading
This usually takes just a second.
Difficulty
easy
Duration
1 hour
Fitness Level
No special fitness is required; suitable for most ages and abilities.
Wildlife
History
The Mackinac Bridge, completed in 1957, connected Michigan’s two peninsulas and revolutionized transportation in the region.
Conservation
The cruise operator follows sustainable practices, including minimizing fuel use and respecting local marine life.
Ugly Anne Boat Cruises
Set sail on the Ugly Anne for a captivating sunset cruise across Lake Michigan, with stunning views of the Mackinac Bridge. Perfect for unwinding and soaking in lake magic, this one-hour sail is a highlight of Mackinaw City adventures.
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
Get a good spot on the deck by arriving at least 15 minutes before departure.
Dress in layers
Evening breezes can cool down unexpectedly; bring layers for comfort.
Bring a camera
Capture the vibrant sunset and scenic views during the cruise.
Stay hydrated
Enjoy beverages offered onboard, but also drink plenty of water before the cruise.
Light jacket or windbreaker
Evenings on the water can be breezy, so bring a layer to stay comfortable.
spring|summer|fall
Sunscreen
Protect your skin during daytime or late afternoon cruises.
summer
Sunhat or cap
Keeps the sun out of your eyes during peak daylight.
summer
Binoculars
Optional for better views of distant ships, bridges, and wildlife.