Vacation Like a Traverse City Local

Book an adventure on the Grand Traverse Bay

Savor local food and wine.

Soak up the surroundings.

Sailing experience not required.

Avoid heading home with run-of-the-mill memories

With over seven million people visiting Grand Traverse each summer, it’s easy to miss out on experiences that leave you feeling like a local.

You deserve an authentic Traverse City experience

Sample Local Fare

Choose from a collection of four local wines, four local beers and four signature Wind Dancer cocktails made with Mammoth Distilling spirits. Want something lighter? We’ve got you covered with several options from Northwoods Soda.

Learn More About TC

After connecting with and hearing stories from our captain and crew, you will leave with a deeper understanding of and connection to the Grand Traverse Region.

Make Life-Long Memories

This may be the first time you have ever sailed on a schooner or ventured into the west arm of the Grand Traverse Bay. Your time on the water will be something truly special that you will remember for many years to come.

How it works

  • Book Your Experience

    Don’t worry if your plans change - you can cancel with a full refund up to 24 hours in advance.

  • Meet Us at the Delamar 30 Minutes Before Your Departure

    Parking is free and you’ll have access to the hotel lobby prior to our departure.

  • Come Aboard

    Enjoy an unparalleled adventure, making special memories with friends and family.

Book Your Experience

  • Spectacular Experience - Don't Miss It!

    “We enjoyed a beautiful sail! The crew was friendly, informative, and hospitable . The locally sourced food and beverages were a nice touch. It was fun to see so many interesting boats on the Bay. We would definitely book this adventure again. Thank you, Wind Dancer family!”

    - Nicole W, August 2023

  • Grand Traverse Bay was grand

    “On a Saturday afternoon, we easily found The Wind Dancer. The sail was delightful and beyond my expectations! We made fast friends with the others in our section of the craft. . . the weather was cool and breezy, the wine and cocktails flowed freely, and the food was phenomenal. The crew were so hospitable while they were very mindful of piloting the boat. I will come back and do it again for sure!”

    Tracy T August 2023

  • Best Day on The Bay

    “From start to finish this was a wonderful experience on the Wind Dancer. We were greeted by staff, Captain Dan, and crew members Charlie and John with the utmost respect and friendliness. Prior to and during our sail, we were informed of safety procedures, information about the boat and learned about area history. It was a sunny day with a calm to moderate breeze. Our trip was relaxing and the views stunning. The crew was engaging and extremely attentive to our needs and to providing thoughtful service with beverages and food.”

    George S, July 2023

Enjoy schooner sailing with delicious, locally-sourced food and artisan wines, ciders, and beers

Sailing Tours

Charter a luxury pontoon from the Delamar with an experienced captain for up to six guests

Pontoon Charters

Enjoy the majesty of schooner sailing with your colleagues, family or friends

Private Charters

Island
Adventures

Be transported to Power Island for an afternoon of fun with family and friends

National Cherry
Festival

Make the most of the National Cherry Festival with one of these unique experiences

When it comes to vacationing Up North, we understand that you want to be more than just a tourist; you aspire to immerse yourself like a local. The challenge is, with over seven million visitors flocking to the Greater Grand Traverse Region annually, it's all too easy to blend into the crowd and end up having a typical, uninspiring vacation.

We believe that everyone deserves a bespoke, unforgettable Up North experience. That's why our certified captains and crew have crafted a unique offering that combines local cuisine, beverages, and history into one extraordinary 2.5-hour journey on Grand Traverse Bay. We've been providing 5-star, unique experiences to discerning guests since 2021.

Here's how you can join us:

1. Book your experience.

2. Meet us at the Delamar 30 minutes before your departure.

3. Board our vessel and enjoy an unparalleled adventure.

Don't just visit—experience. Book your trip today. Say goodbye to the hassle of planning and let us show you the best of this region in one unforgettable outing.

FREE EBOOK

7 Ways to Experience Traverse City Like a Local

Get Your Guide to TC’s Hidden Gems