Wind Dancer
Sunset Sail
Stunning sunsets, bay breezes
and the majesty of schooner sailing
Wednesdays through Saturdays
Overview
No two Grand Traverse Bay sunsets are alike! Sit back, relax and sail with the captain and crew across the brilliant blue water of the bay.
Photo-worthy opportunities abound from the dock to the middle of the bay as you let the captain and crew pamper you with locally crafted beverages and farm to fork fare.
You'll be talking about this sail for a long time and creating memories to brighten your winter days. Every evening offers up unique skies and breezes that tantalize the senses.
What’s included
3-hour sail
in Grand Traverse Bay
Local wine, beer & craft cocktails
Farm-to-fork
local fare
Departure
times
Memorial Day to August 14th: 6:30 p.m.
August 15 to Labor Day: 6:15 p.m.
September 6th to September 30th, 5:45 p.m.
Minimum
Age
16
Tour
Duration
Three hours
Maximum Group Size
18
FAQs
Why is the adventure for those 16 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 youngsters. 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 13, please consider chartering Delamar, our luxurious 11 passenger pontoon, or perhaps you could plan a private Wind Dancer sail. We hate to disappoint! 😊
What is your cancellation policy?
Our tours will only be canceled due to extreme weather conditions. Should there be light rain, for example, you would want to bring rain gear. We try to make the call for our sailing adventures 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. Should you wish to cancel for any reason, you must do so with a 24-hour advanced notice in order to receive a refund.
How accessible is the boat?
Guests must be able to step across a 10-inch gap between the dock and the boat to board Wind Dancer. Once aboard, there are seating options on the main deck and padded seating on an elevated deck that is one 2-foot step above the main deck. Guests can access the salon and restroom via a set of stairs with six steps.
Will I get wet?
Wind Dancer rides low to the water, so If you chose to sail, you may get splashed a bit. For private charters, there may be opportunities to swim from Wind Dancer, depending on the conditions. We suggest you bring a towel, swimsuit, and or beachwear so that you’re comfortable.
What kind of food can we expect?
Only the best. Wind Dancer offerings on the boat are all organic and locally sourced from farms and businesses in Traverse City, Leelanau County and Grand Traverse County. You can expect homemade breads, cheeses, meats, fruit, veggies, dips, and spreads from local artisans and farms. Vegetarian and vegan options available.
Where do I park?
Free parking is available at the Delamar Hotel, although in the peak of summer, be prepared to find other parking. The Hardy Parking Garage is .6 miles away from the Delamar.
What happens if I'm late?
The boat will leave promptly at the designated time. Please prepare for traffic delays during festival and peak summer months to ensure a smooth arrival.
How do I tip the crew at the end of the trip?
Typically, cash tips are given to the captain at the end of the tour. The suggested tip rate is anywhere from 15-20%. We also have a Venmo account set up with the handle @Winddancerteam.
What people are saying.
“We liked how they had so much knowledge of the Bay Area. We will definitely come back and do it again.”
— Troy J.
“Must do while in Traverse City! No matter what the occasion, please treat yourself to this experience….”
— Lynsie
Meet captain Jason
Captain Jason Lombardi fell in love with sailing as a youngster and has nurtured the love of boats and water his entire life.
Jason earned his captain's license in 2010 with US Captains Training. He captained the tall ship Champion for two seasons and a popular catamaran called Nauti-Cat the past several summers.
He’s spent time in different ports and marinas from Saint Clair to the Mackinac Straits and west to Lake Michigan. Jason is keenly interested in inspiring others to follow their dreams.
Meet captain Dan
Daniel learned to sail when he was sixteen and he lived aboard a 26 ft sloop living on anchor moving around West Grand Traverse Bay. He sailed to the gulf to sell his boat and fulfilled his lifelong dream and promise to his mother to thru-hike the Appalachian Trail in 2018.
Daniel served as shipwright and crew for Inland Seas aboard schooner Utopia, where he absorbed as much knowledge about the art of sailing schooners and skills of the shipwright as he could.
His other interests include long, wandering sails in the middle of the night aboard his Alberg 30 sailboat, playing the piano, and watching weather systems develop.
$199
(gratuity not included)
Per person
This is a 3-hour sail that leaves from The Delamar hotel. Local food and beverages are included. For ages 13 and up.