Lake Leelanau 4 Hour Tour

A Practical Review of the Lake Leelanau 4-Hour Tour

If you’re seeking a relaxing yet engaging way to experience Northern Michigan’s stunning lake country, the Lake Leelanau 4-Hour Tour offers just that—without the fuss of planning every detail yourself. Promoted as a private, customizable boat trip, this experience is perfect for small groups looking to combine scenic vistas, charming towns, and a touch of local flavor all in one afternoon.

What we love about this tour is its flexibility and focus on authentic local spots. First, the chance to visit quaint towns like Lake Leelanau and historic Fish Town in Leland makes it a well-rounded experience. Second, their inclusion of wine tastings at Boathouse Vineyards and optional ashore stops provide a delightful mix of nature and leisure.

That said, a potential consideration is the price point of $575 per group—a fair amount for many travelers, especially if you’re just two or three people. However, given that it caters to up to 8 guests, the price can be very reasonable for a group looking for a personalized adventure on the water.

This tour suits families, couples, bachelor or bachelorette parties, and small business retreats wanting a mix of relaxation, scenic beauty, and a bit of local charm. If you love handcrafted experiences and tailored days out, this is worth a look.

Key Points

• Private and customizable tour experience tailored to your interests.
• Includes stops in Lake Leelanau and Leland, offering a taste of local culture and scenery.
• Wine tastings at Boathouse Vineyards with a 10% discount for guests.
• All safety gear provided, including life jackets and coolers.
• Flexible itinerary, weather permitting, with options for ashore exploration.
• Ideal for small groups up to 8 people, making it intimate and personalized.

What You Can Expect from the Lake Leelanau 4-Hour Tour

This tour is designed to be both flexible and memorable. It begins at Perrins Landing Drive in Solon Township, where you’ll meet your licensed captain. From there, the boat becomes your floating base for the next four hours, with a route tailored to your interests and the weather conditions of the day.

The Itinerary in Detail

Stop 1: Lake Leelanau
Your journey kicks off on the expansive Lake Leelanau. Known affectionately as the “North Lake,” this body of water offers a calm, scenic backdrop for your adventure. You’ll likely spend about two hours exploring, with options to go ashore to enjoy local wine tastings, visit the Northern Latitudes Distillery, or grab a to-go meal from one of the local eateries.

On the water, expect to see beautiful sandbars and great swimming spots. The reviews consistently highlight how the captain’s local knowledge makes these stops more than just pretty views—it’s about finding the spots that suit your activity level and interests. Whether you want to lounge on a float, paddleboard, or just soak up the sun, the calm waters make for an enjoyable experience.

Stop 2: Leland and Fish Town
If time permits, you can hop ashore in Leland or Fish Town. These historic districts are beloved for their charm—think old-world storefronts, artisanal shops, and a vibrant maritime history. Some guests have appreciated the opportunity to explore shops or relax on Lake Michigan’s Vans Beach, which is just a short dip away from the boat.

The reviews reflect how this stop adds a real local flavor, with one guest noting, “We had the best afternoon out on the lake,” and mentioning Captain Jeff’s considerate guidance that made the whole experience smooth—even with late arrivals due to traffic.

Stop 3: Boathouse Vineyards
The final stop is at Boathouse Vineyards, located conveniently where South and North Lake Leelanau meet. Here, you can sample a variety of wines, with the added bonus of a 10% discount on tastings, glasses, and bottles for H2GO guests. The vineyard’s positioning offers fantastic views and a relaxed atmosphere, perfect to wind down and toast your day.

Guests have expressed that this stop is a highlight—combining beautiful scenery with quality local wines, making for a memorable conclusion to your trip.

What’s Included and What You Should Bring

The tour provides bottled water, ice, coolers, water floats, and USCG-approved life jackets. The boat is also licensed and insured, with a friendly, professional captain guiding the way.

However, note that alcoholic beverages and snacks are not included, so you might consider bringing your own drinks (over 21 only) and some snacks to enhance your experience. Beach towels are also not provided, so bring your own if you plan to swim or sunbathe ashore.

Group Size, Price, and Practical Details

The tour is priced at $575 for up to 8 people, which breaks down to around $72 per person if you fill all spots—a good value for a private experience that includes flexible stops and personalized service. It lasts about four hours, making it a comfortable half-day activity that leaves enough time for other sightseeing or dining.

Operating from noon, it offers a relaxed start, and the meeting point at Perrins Landing Drive is straightforward to find. The tour’s capacity of just your group ensures a private, intimate atmosphere—free from crowds or strangers.

Authentic Experiences and Guest Feedback

Guests consistently highlight the knowledgeable and friendly guides, especially mentioning Captain Jeff’s professionalism and flexibility. One reviewer said, “Jeff was an amazing guide! He was incredibly considerate and made our trip the best,” which speaks to the personalized care you can expect.

The views on Lake Leelanau are often described as stunning—with clear waters, lush shoreline, and scenic sandbars—making it a visual treat. The wine tasting stop also receives praise for offering local, quality selections, adding a touch of sophistication to a casual day on the water.

The flexibility to customize the itinerary based on weather and group interests is a big plus, allowing you to focus on what matters most—whether it’s swimming, exploring towns, or just relaxing with a drink in hand.

Final Thoughts on Value and Suitability

This tour offers an excellent combination of scenic beauty, local culture, and personalized service. While the price might seem steep at first glance, it includes a private, flexible experience that’s tailored just for your group. The ability to explore charming towns, enjoy on-water activities, and taste local wines makes it a well-rounded day for those who value authenticity and comfort.

It’s particularly ideal for small groups who want an intimate experience, whether celebrating a special occasion or simply seeking a day away from the hustle. The emphasis on knowledgeable guides and beautiful stops means you’ll get more than just a boat ride—you’ll get a curated, memorable adventure.

If you’re looking for a flexible, scenic, and relaxed way to enjoy Lake Leelanau and its surroundings, this tour ticks all the boxes. Just remember to bring your sun protection, a camera, and a few snacks—then sit back and let the captain do the rest.

FAQs

Is this a private tour?
Yes, this experience is exclusively for your group, ensuring a private, relaxed atmosphere.

What is the maximum group size?
Up to 8 people, making it an intimate outing perfect for friends, families, or small groups.

What’s included in the price?
Bottled water, ice, coolers, water floats, and USCG-approved life jackets are provided. The captain is licensed and insured.

Can I bring alcohol?
Yes, alcohol is allowed, but only if you’re over 21 years old. You’ll need to bring your own drinks.

Are there ashore stops?
Yes, you can go ashore in Lake Leelanau or Leland, weather permitting, for wine tastings, shopping, or swimming.

What should I bring?
Bring along sun protection, snacks if desired, beach towels, and any additional drinks or personal items you might want.

What if the weather isn’t good?
The tour is weather-dependent. If canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered an alternative date or a full refund.

In all, the Lake Leelanau 4-Hour Tour offers a well-balanced mix of scenery, culture, and relaxation—perfect for small groups wanting a personalized day on the water in Northern Michigan.