Traverse City: Wine Tasting Cruise on Schooner Manitou

Imagine sipping local wines while gently rocking on the waves of Grand Traverse Bay — sounds idyllic, right? This wine tasting cruise aboard the Schooner Manitou offers just that, blending the serenity of sailing with the pleasure of tasting Michigan’s best wines. While we haven’t personally taken this exact tour, reviews and detailed descriptions suggest it’s a charming way to enjoy Traverse City’s scenery and local flavors.

What we do love about this experience is how it combines scenic sailing with educational wine tasting led by a knowledgeable guide. The chance to help set the sails, take a turn at the wheel, or simply relax on deck makes for a hands-on, memorable outing. A potential consideration is that the weather can influence the sailing, so it might be a slightly different experience depending on wind and waves.

This tour suits travelers who appreciate a laid-back vibe, enjoy wine, and want a taste of local culture without the hassle of driving or long winery visits. It’s especially appealing for those seeking a unique perspective of Traverse City’s natural beauty, paired with quality wines in an authentic setting.

Key Points

• Scenic Sailing: Enjoy 1.5 hours of cruising on Grand Traverse Bay with stunning views.
• Expert-Guided Tasting: Sample five different wines from a local winery, with guidance to help recognize subtle flavors.
• Interactive Experience: Help crew set the sails or take a turn at the wheel, adding a fun, immersive element.
• Convenient & Relaxing: No driving required, with a relaxing 2-hour window perfect for an evening out.
• Value for Money: Includes five wine tastings, a scenic cruise, and optional snacks, all at an accessible price point.
• Weather Dependent: Wind and waves influence the sailing, so flexibility may be needed.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Detailed Look at the Experience

Starting Point and Check-in

The adventure begins at the Traverse Tall Ship Company, with check-in at their ticket booth. Arriving at least 30 minutes early is strongly advised, as the boat departs on time. Be aware that the area can be busy due to construction, and heavy traffic is possible. Free parking is available behind the Great Lakes Discovery Center, just across the street from the pier, but travelers should use the designated pedestrian crossing for safety. The note about avoiding Apple Maps is helpful — use the provided coordinates or contact the company for detailed directions if needed.

Safety & Preparation

A brief safety briefing kicks off the experience — about five minutes to make sure everyone feels comfortable and prepared. Given that the cruise is wheelchair accessible and the boat’s crew are attentive, it’s accommodating for many guests. The weather can influence the course, so packing a jacket, sunglasses, and comfortable shoes makes sense. Since snacks and drinks are available for purchase on board, bringing a soft-sided cooler with non-alcoholic beverages or snacks is allowed, but alcohol must be purchased on the boat.

The Sailing Experience

The sail itself lasts about 1.5 hours, during which you’ll feel the wind in your hair and enjoy sweeping views of Grand Traverse Bay. The crew actively encourages participation — helping with sails or steering — which adds a sense of adventure and connection to the boat. Guests often comment on the beautiful scenery and the peacefulness of the bay. As one reviewer mentioned, “We loved the way the wind and waves made the experience feel authentic and relaxing.”

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The Wine Tasting

After the sail, the focus shifts to tasting wines from a local winery. The featured wineries change by date, including favorites like Black Star Farms, Dune Bird, and Left Foot Charley. The guide helps guests identify subtle flavors, making the tasting educational as well as delicious. Typically, five different pourings are sampled, giving a nice variety of styles and flavors representative of the region.

Reviewers praise the knowledgeable guides and the excellent wine selection. One shared that, “The guide’s expertise helped us appreciate the wines more, making the tasting both fun and educational.” Snacks are available for purchase, allowing guests to nibble during the cruise — perfect for pairing with wines or simply enjoying the flavors in a relaxed setting.

The Return and Logistics

The cruise concludes back at the Traverse Tall Ship Company pier, with plenty of time to reflect on the experience or explore nearby Traverse City. The timing makes it an ideal early evening activity, especially in the summer months when sunsets cast a golden glow over the bay.

Price & Value

While specific pricing isn’t provided here, the inclusion of five wine tastings, a scenic sail, and the chance to help with sailing tasks makes this a compelling value. Compared to traditional wine tours, which often involve multiple stops and transportation hassles, this cruise offers a relaxed, all-in-one experience. The cost might seem modest, especially considering the quality of wines and the scenic setting, making it an attractive option for a special treat or a unique way to spend an evening.

What makes it stand out?

The interactive nature of helping set the sails and the expert guidance on wine tasting elevate this beyond a simple cruise. Guests consistently appreciate the authentic atmosphere — feeling like part of the crew while savoring some excellent local wines.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This cruise appeals most to travelers who:

• Want a romantic or peaceful evening activity
• Are interested in local wines and learning about them
• Enjoy sailing and being outdoors
• Prefer a no-hassle, guided experience without long winery visits
• Appreciate interactive experiences like helping with the sails
• Seek a family-friendly activity (over age 21), with accessible options for those with mobility challenges
• Are flexible with weather, as sailing conditions can vary

The Sum Up

This Wine Tasting Cruise on Schooner Manitou offers a wonderful blend of scenic sailing and culinary exploration. It’s ideally suited for travelers who value authentic experiences over commercialized tours, seeking to enjoy Michigan’s scenic beauty along with a curated tasting of local wines. The knowledgeable crew, stunning views, and relaxed atmosphere create a memorable outing that balances education and leisure.

While weather can influence the sailing portion, the overall experience is designed to be enjoyable and immersive. It makes for a great evening activity—whether as part of a romantic getaway, a solo adventure, or a fun group outing. For those wanting to see Traverse City from a different perspective, this cruise delivers both on scenery and flavor.

In short, if you enjoy stunning sunsets, friendly guides, and quality local wines, this is a tour worth considering.

FAQ

Is there a dress code?
No specific dress code is required, but comfortable shoes, sunglasses, and a jacket are recommended for the outdoor, breezy setting.

How early should I arrive?
Arriving at least 30 minutes before the scheduled departure ensures ample time for check-in and safety briefing.

Can I bring my own snacks or drinks?
Snacks and drinks are available for purchase on board, but outside alcohol is not allowed, except in a soft-sided cooler.

Is this activity wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the cruise is wheelchair accessible, but it’s best to contact the provider if someone in your party needs special assistance with boarding.

What if the weather is windy or the waves are high?
Weather conditions influence the sailing, so the route may change depending on wind and waves. Dress appropriately for outdoor conditions.

What wineries are featured?
Wineries vary by date, including Black Star Farms, Dune Bird, and Left Foot Charley, offering a nice variety of local flavors.

Can children join this tour?
No, this activity is for guests over 21 years old due to alcohol consumption restrictions.

This unique cruise combines the best of Traverse City’s natural beauty and local wine culture. Whether you’re a wine lover, a sailing enthusiast, or simply looking for a peaceful evening on the water, it’s an experience that delivers both charm and authenticity.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby