Traverse City: Evening Sail With Local Anishinaabe Guide

Traverse City, a picturesque destination on the shores of Grand Traverse Bay, offers a unique opportunity to explore the region’s rich cultural heritage. Join a guided evening sail led by a local Anishinaabe guide, who’ll share insights into the significance of the bay’s landmarks and the traditions of the indigenous community. This two-hour journey promises stunning views and a deeper understanding of the area’s history, making it an unforgettable experience for anyone seeking to enjoy the natural beauty and cultural tapestry of this captivating corner of Michigan.

Key Points

2-hour evening sail departing from Traverse Tall Ship Company, offering scenic views of Traverse City and Old Mission Peninsula.
Sail led by Tera John, a Knowledge Carrier and Story Keeper from the Grand Traverse Band, providing insights into Anishinaabe history and traditions.
Focus on the cultural significance of Grand Traverse Bay, with opportunities to interact with the captain and crew.
Wheelchair accessible activity with a free parking option behind the Great Lakes Discovery Center.
Recommended to dress in layers and bring a camera to capture the breathtaking views during the sail.

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Activity Overview

The evening sail on Grand Traverse Bay with a local Anishinaabe guide lasts for 2 hours.

It costs from €60.48 per person and offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

The tour is led by a live English-speaking guide and is wheelchair accessible.

Guests can enjoy breathtaking views of Traverse City and the Old Mission Peninsula while learning about the history and cultural significance of the Grand Traverse Bay from the Anishinaabe perspective.

Itinerary and Experience

Starting from the Traverse Tall Ship Company in Greilickville, the tour begins with a brief 5-minute safety briefing, followed by 1.5 hours of sailing.

The main sites passed include breathtaking views of Traverse City and Old Mission Peninsula.

Throughout the experience, participants can connect with the history of the Anishinaabe and Grand Traverse Bay’s ancestral residents.

Guests also have the opportunity to interact with the captain and crew, while snacks and beverages are available for purchase.

Guide and Educational Component

Tera John, a Knowledge Carrier and Story Keeper from the Grand Traverse Band of Ottawa and Chippewa Indians, leads the educational component of the evening sail.

Guests will gain unique insights about the cultural significance of Grand Traverse Bay and its ancestral residents.

The tour offers:

A deep dive into the history and traditions of the Anishinaabe people.
Fascinating stories about the bay’s landmarks and their importance to the native community.
An opportunity to connect with the land and water through the lens of indigenous knowledge.

This educational experience provides a meaningful and authentic way for visitors to learn about the area’s rich cultural heritage.

Meeting Point and Parking

Free parking is available behind the Great Lakes Discovery Center (13170 S. West Bay Shore Dr., Traverse City, MI).

Guests should check in at the ticket booth at Discovery Pier.

It’s important to avoid using Apple Maps for directions, as it may provide inaccurate information.

The meeting point is conveniently located, making it easy for visitors to access the sailing tour.

With free parking and a straightforward check-in process, the start of the evening sail experience is designed to be smooth and hassle-free for participants.

What to Bring

Bringing comfortable shoes, a hat, and a camera is recommended for the evening sail. The weather can be cooler on the water, so dressing in layers is advised. Visitors should also pack sunscreen and a water bottle to stay hydrated during the 2-hour journey.

Other items to consider bringing include:

A jacket in case the wind picks up
Binoculars to get a closer look at the sights
A small snack or beverage, as refreshments are available for purchase onboard

It’s important to note that smoking, outside beverages, and coolers aren’t permitted on the boat.

Restrictions and Considerations

Aboard the evening sail, there are a few restrictions and considerations guests should keep in mind.

Smoking isn’t permitted, and outside beverages and coolers are also not allowed. The weather can be cooler on the water, so dressing in layers is recommended.

For guests requiring special assistance with boarding, the office should be contacted in advance.

With these guidelines in place, passengers can focus on seeing the rich cultural experience and breathtaking views that the evening sail has to offer.

Getting to the Departure Point

Travelers can find free parking available behind the Great Lakes Discovery Center, located at 13170 S. West Bay Shore Dr., Traverse City, MI.

To access the departure point, guests should check in at the ticket booth at Discovery Pier. When navigating to the location, it’s best to avoid using Apple Maps due to potential inaccuracies.

The activity includes:

Safety briefing (5 minutes)
1.5 hours of sailing
Opportunity to interact with the captain and crew

Guests are advised to contact the office for any special assistance needed with boarding at 231-941-2000 or [email protected].

Accessibility and Special Assistance

The activity is wheelchair accessible, and the operator encourages guests who require special assistance to contact the office in advance.

The check-in is located at the Discovery Pier, where free parking is available behind the Great Lakes Discovery Center. Guests should avoid using Apple Maps for directions due to potential inaccuracies.

The sailing tour includes a safety briefing before embarking on the 1.5-hour journey, offering breathtaking views of Traverse City and the Old Mission Peninsula.

Throughout the experience, guests have the opportunity to interact with the captain and crew, while purchasing snacks and beverages.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Sailing Equipment in Good Condition?

The sailing equipment appears to be well-maintained, as the company provides regular safety inspections and updates. Customers can expect a safe and reliable sailing experience based on the information provided in the activity overview.

What Types of Wildlife Can Be Seen During the Tour?

Participants may spot a variety of birds, including bald eagles, herons, and waterfowl, as well as harbor seals and the occasional white-tailed deer along the shoreline during the evening sail on Grand Traverse Bay.

Are There Any Dietary Restrictions or Special Meal Options?

There are snacks and beverages available for purchase, but no special meal options are provided. Guests should inform the tour company of any dietary restrictions when booking to ensure their needs are accommodated.

Can the Tour Be Customized for Special Occasions?

The tour can be customized for special occasions, but there’s no mention of specific options. Guests should contact the company to inquire about any special arrangements or requests they may have for their sailing experience.

Do Participants Need Any Prior Sailing Experience?

No prior sailing experience is required. The tour provides a safety briefing and the crew guides participants throughout the 1.5-hour sail. The activity is suitable for all skill levels, from first-time sailors to experienced boaters.

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Recap

This enchanting evening sail with a local Anishinaabe guide offers a unique opportunity to experience the natural beauty of Traverse City’s Grand Traverse Bay. Visitors will gain insights into the rich cultural heritage and traditions of the Anishinaabe community, making for an unforgettable and educational sailing adventure.