The Experience
How long is the experience?
The sailing experiences are 2 1/2 hours long, and the pontoon experiences are 2 hours long. Please arrive 30 minutes ahead of the scheduled tour time so that we can check you in and acquaint you with the equipment. Tours will begin promptly at the designated time.
Why is the adventure for those 14 years and older? Can I bring younger children?
We love our younger friends, however, because this is an interpretive tour where alcohol will be served, our tour is not suitable for the youngers. In addition, safety on the boat is a consideration. Life is hectic and creating a mature passenger-only environment is part of the opportunity to relax and kick back a bit. Should you wish to include children under 14, please consider chartering Delamar, our luxurious 6 passenger pontoon, or perhaps you could plan a private Wind Dancer sail. We hate to disappoint!😊
Will I get wet?
If you’re on a private pontoon charter or private sail, there may be opportunities to swim from Wind Dancer, depending on the conditions. for these outings, we suggest you bring a towel and swimsuit.
Our tours will only be canceled due to extreme weather conditions. We try to make a cancellation call an hour in advance of sailing, although sometimes the call is closer to departure. Rest assured, if we need to cancel because safety is an issue, you will have the opportunity to reschedule or get your money back.
Is gratuity included?
Gratuity is NOT included. We recommend tipping your crew according to your experience. They work hard to ensure your safety and enjoyment. The Wind Dancer crew are some of the very best in the field of eco and outdoor tourism. So much thought and energy go into consistency, safety, and fun. The industry norm is 20%, but we won’t limit you! You may also pay a tip via Venmo (@Winddancerteam).
I don’t drink alcohol. Will there be any beverage choices for me?
We’ll have local soda pop and cold water as an option.
Can we take photos?
Of course! We want you to make beautiful memories and have the time of your life. Take as many photos as you like.
What to Bring
What do I need to bring?
You should bring as little as possible, but we would suggest sunblock, sunglasses, a water bottle, and a towel if you’re sailing.
What kind of shoes should I wear?
You will want to wear flat-soled shoes that can grip the deck. Leather-bottom shoes would not be a safe choice.
Can I bring my pet?
We love your pets even more than we love you! (We jest!) As much as we love pets, we can’t allow them on Wind Dancer or the pontoon. The reasons are for safety and consistent operations. But please give them a pat and treat from us. If scheduling a private sail, it may be possible to bring a pet with the captain’s permission. Small dogs may be allowed on the pontoon, which captain’s permission.
Safety & Access
Is it difficult to get on the boat?
The short answer is no, but please keep in mind that this is an active experience. We provide a super-stable and safe boarding platform from the dock at The Delamar.
Is there a bathroom on the boat?
Yes, we have a restroom on Wind Dancer. There will also be restrooms on land at our stops on the trail.
What happens if it rains or there is inclement weather?
A little rain will not stop the adventure, but high winds, thundering, and lightning will. We give refunds or rainchecks in the event of cancellation. If we cancel the sail, we are happy to offer an alternative date or a rain check. There may be a delay in starting if weather is moving through the area. Communication will be super important on the day of the event so please ensure that when you make your reservation you provide us a cell phone number that you monitor and answer! We try and make a weather call an hour in advance of departure.
Is there any shade on the boat?
There is not much shade on the deck, but there is relief from the sun in the Wind Dancer salon below. Bring sunblock and a hat or visor if you are concerned about sun. A cover-up or light weight long sleeve shirt is not a bad idea for sun sensitive folks.
Are there life jackets on the boat?
Yes, we provide a life jacket for every passenger on board in the unlikely event that they are needed and Wind Dancer is also equipped with a 30-person life raft that is activated in the unlikely event of an emergency.
Is Wind Dancer inspected and a safe boat?
The United States Coast Guard inspected Wind Dancer and issued us a Certificate of Inspection. We work closely with the Coast Guard on all aspects of safety and compliance.
The Boat (Wind Dancer)
How old is Wind Dancer and where was she built?
She was built in Pass Christian, Mississippi in 1986 and launched in 1988. She is a Custom Colvin Gazelle schooner. She is 63 feet long from bowsprit to davits. She is 51 feet long not including the davits and bowsprit. She has a galley, salon, sleeping berth and head (restroom).
Wasn’t Wind Dancer in Grand Haven, Michigan?
Yes, she spent many years down south in Grand Haven where she was a bit of a celebratory on the water. She has many followers and memories and we’re excited to have her in Traverse City to continue her legacy!