Meet Captain Christopher Buday, the quintessential waterman whose veins flow with more water than blood. As the Master Captain at Wind Dancer Traverse City Tours, Christopher's life has been intricately woven with the fabric of the sea.

From his earliest days, Christopher found his calling on the water, sailing through life both personally and professionally. His dedication to water stewardship was evident during his tenure as Director of Public Works for Grand Traverse County and Vice President of Water Operations for New York American Water, where he worked tirelessly to protect this precious resource.

Christopher's commitment to the water runs deep in his DNA, evident in his decision to serve in the Navy after college, ultimately retiring as a Commander. Armed with a degree in Mechanical Engineering and a license to practice law, Christopher brings a unique blend of expertise to his role as Master Captain, ensuring the safety and enjoyment of all who embark on his tours of West Bay.

But Christopher is not just a captain—he's a well-rounded geek with a gift for gab and an extensive knowledge of local history. Don't hesitate to ask him questions; you'll not only have a fantastic time on the water but also leave with a wealth of knowledge, ready to conquer any Traverse City trivia contest. With Captain Christopher at the helm, every journey is not just an adventure but a masterclass in exploration and discovery.

Meet Captain Michele, a seasoned sailor whose passion for the sea runs as deep as her love for making dreams a reality. With a warm smile and a knack for hospitality, she's the ultimate hostess on the water, rolling out the welcome mat like nobody else can.

Michele's journey with the sea began in her childhood, where she was drawn to the water's edge. Growing up near the shores, she developed a profound connection to the natural world, which sparked a lifelong love affair with maritime life.

From her early days, Michele honed her skills on boats, navigating the waters from Detroit to Duluth. She's spent countless hours on both land and sea, working tirelessly on various commercial vessels on the West Bay, earning her stripes as a capable and experienced captain.

When she's not charting her course on the open waters, Michele finds solace and joy on her historic Suttons Bay homestead, where she enjoys precious moments with her husband. Whether she's sailing the seas or tending to her land, Michele's passion for the water and her commitment to hospitality shine through, making her a beloved figure among sailors and landlubbers alike.

Introducing Captain Nate, a lifelong water enthusiast whose heart beats to the rhythm of the ocean's waves. From his earliest days, Nate has been drawn to the sea, finding solace and adventure on its vast expanse.

In recent years, Nate's voyages have led him to the enchanting waters of the Florida Keys, where he commands a majestic 46’ Corinthian for Sole Watersports.

Beyond his expertise as a marine scientist, Nate harbors a fascination with the swashbuckling tales of pirates, regaling friends and fellow travelers with captivating stories from the high seas. His passion for history adds depth to his voyages, enriching each journey with a sense of wonder and intrigue.

While Nate's education and training may lie in the warm waters of the Florida reef tract, he eagerly embraces the opportunity to delve into the ecological wonders and rich history of Lake Michigan and Grand Traverse Bay. As he sets sail on this new chapter of exploration, Captain Nate's spirit of adventure and curiosity knows no bounds.

Introducing Chris Alter, a true connoisseur of the Great Lakes and the finer things in life. From his idyllic summers spent on Lake Leelanau, where fishing and boating were second nature, to his passion for sailing cultivated as a volunteer instructor and deckhand with Inland Seas, Chris's love affair with the water runs deep.

Now, as the maestro of hospitality at Wind Dancer Traverse City Tours, Chris brings his expertise and enthusiasm to curate unforgettable experiences for guests. But his talents extend far beyond the shoreline; for over two decades, Chris has been immersed in the world of winemaking, crafting exquisite wines on both the Leelanau and Old Mission peninsulas. His journey has taken him across continents, from the vineyards of Tennessee to the lush landscapes of Oregon, and even to New Zealand, where he spent three years perfecting the art of Pinot Noir.

When he's not busy orchestrating memorable adventures or crafting fine wines, Chris indulges in his passions for cooking, cycling, and exploring the rich tapestry of local food, wine, beer, and cider. With every journey aboard Wind Dancer, Chris invites you to join him on a voyage of discovery, where the beauty of Grand Traverse Bay is matched only by the warmth of his hospitality. As the 2024 season approaches, Chris is eager to welcome you aboard for an experience that promises to be nothing short of extraordinary. Book your adventure now and set sail with Chris Alter for an unforgettable journey on the shimmering waters of Grand Traverse Bay.

John is a talented entrepreneur and sailor who grew up in Traverse City. John's commitment to safety and his love of the water are the perfect combination for relaxation and making life long memories. John has restored his own boats and sailed a variety of watercraft on the Grand Traverse Bay. His attention to detail is unparalleled and almost equal to his desire to help people fall in love with the bay.

President of Wind Dancer, Tawny Hammond, grew up on Lake Michigan and is fulfilling a lifelong dream of combining a love of the outdoors with her entrepreneurial spirit. Water and boats have been a theme in Tawny’s life. Not only is she one of the few women schooner owners on the Great Lakes, but she is also a licensed captain with the US Coast Guard. Her grandfathers loved boats, owning, and even building boats and she managed lakefront parks in her public service career. Tawny and her spouse spend their time visiting beautiful places around the world always finding the waters where they go.