Dive into an unforgettable water adventure in Northern Michigan with Wilderness Water Experience. Rent jet skis, kayaks, and more for a day on the scenic lakes of Traverse City and Leelanau County.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
6 hours
Fitness Level
No special fitness level required, but be comfortable on the water
Wildlife
History
The lakes have been central to local life since Native American tribes first inhabited the area, with European settlement centuries later enhancing the region's maritime reputation.
Conservation
Wilderness Water Experience promotes eco-friendly practices, including boat washdowns and responsible waste disposal, to preserve Michigan’s pristine waters.
Memories Traverse City
Dive into an unforgettable water adventure in Northern Michigan with Wilderness Water Experience. Rent jet skis, kayaks, and more for a day on the scenic lakes of Traverse City and Leelanau County.
Memories Traverse City is a recreation and rental company based in Traverse City, Michigan. The business provides a range of water and off‑road experiences designed for families, groups, and individual adventurers.
Water options include DoubleDecker pontoon rentals with slides, Sea‑Doo GTI 130 jet ski rentals, and the O'Brien VooDoo knee board for wake sports. Off‑road offerings use a 2025 Polaris UTV and ATV fleet and include one‑hour through six‑hour rentals, multi‑hour guided tours, and four‑day rentals for extended exploration. The 1.5‑hour guided tour features the latest 2025 Polaris fleet for trail discovery, while the Kalkaska Experience combines side‑by‑side driving with a meal at Trout Town Tavern & Eatery. Vehicles feature modern technology and climate‑controlled cabins on select models to enhance comfort on scenic routes. Rentals list options for beginners through experienced riders, with several experiences noting no previous off‑road experience required. Night rides are available for select off‑road adventures, and pontoons provide spacious upper decks for relaxation and slides for active fun on the water. Booking options accommodate short excursions and multi‑day trips, enabling customized schedules. By offering both guided tours and self‑guided rentals across watercraft and off‑road vehicles, Memories Traverse City delivers a flexible lineup in Northern Michigan. The business focuses on providing up‑to‑date equipment, a variety of trip lengths, and family‑friendly experiences in and around Traverse City. Sea‑Doo GTI 130 rentals include a learning mode for new riders, while the O'Brien VooDoo knee board offers padded straps and an EVA pad for enhanced comfort, control and stability. Included.
Location
Traverse City, MI
Northern Michigan waterfront and trails
Water Rentals
Pontoons & Sea‑Doos
Slides, jet skis, and boards
Modern Fleet
2025 Polaris models
Up-to-date UTVs and ATVs
Tours Offered
10 unique trips
Durations from 1 hour to 4 days
Secure a DoubleDecker pontoon, Sea‑Doo GTI 130, O'Brien VooDoo knee board, or Polaris UTV rental — options for all group sizes and skill levels.
Arrive early
Getting an early start allows more time on the water and less crowding at the launch sites.
Safety first
Always wear life jackets and follow safety instructions provided by staff.
Check weather
Monitor weather conditions to avoid sudden storms or rough water.
Book in advance
Secure your preferred watercraft with reservations, especially in peak season.
Sunscreen
Protect your skin from sun exposure during long hours outdoors.
summer
Water shoes
Helpful for getting in and out of the water safely and comfortably.
summer
Dry bag
Keep your valuables dry during watercraft trips.
summer
Hat and sunglasses
Shield your eyes from the sun for better visibility and protection.
summer