The 2 Best Cruises And Boat Tours in Door County
Door County offers a surprising variety of boat tours that reveal both its natural beauty and its intriguing history. While many travelers flock here for the charming villages and outdoor activities, exploring from the water provides a perspective that’s both relaxing and enriching. Whether you’re interested in viewing historic shoreline homes, spotting nesting pelicans, or learning about iconic lighthouses, there’s a boat tour that fits the bill.
In this guide, we’ll explore two standout options: the Door County Historic Cottage Row & Strawberry Islands Cruise and the Door County: West Islands & Eagle Bluff Lighthouse Cruise. We’ll examine what each experience involves, what makes them unique, and who they’re best suited for. If you want an authentic slice of Door County from the deck of a boat, this is your starting point for choosing the right tour.
Quick Overview
The first option, the Door County Historic Cottage Row & Strawberry Islands Cruise, is a 1.5-hour adventure that combines scenic views of historic shoreline homes with a visit to the Strawberry Islands, known for birdwatching and distant lighthouse views. It’s a laid-back, informative experience ideal for history buffs and nature lovers alike.
The second, the Door County: West Islands & Eagle Bluff Lighthouse Cruise, offers a shorter, 1-hour trip focusing on the Eagle Bluff Lighthouse and the nesting white pelicans. It emphasizes scenic vistas and a perspective that departs from the busy shoreline, perfect for those looking for a quick but scenic escape.
1. Door County Historic Cottage Row & Strawberry Islands Cruise
This popular cruise combines a relaxing boat ride with a dive into the area’s rich history. Starting from Fish Creek, the tour lasts about 1.5 hours, making it easy to fit into a day’s schedule. The boat glides past beautiful shore homes along Cottage Row, renowned for their historic significance and stunning architecture. As you cruise, your guide shares stories about the area’s past, including the luxurious lifestyles of early residents.
The highlight is exploring the Strawberry Islands, where you’ll see white pelicans and cormorants, with plenty of opportunities for birdwatching. The boat stops offshore of Eagle Bluff Lighthouse, offering a prime photo opportunity of this well-known navigational beacon. You’ll also learn about Sven’s Bluff and Camp Menagha, sites with intriguing stories linked to local history and early settlement.
What makes this tour stand out is its blend of scenic beauty with educational content. The $45 per person price is quite reasonable considering the duration and the depth of stories shared. The boat is comfortable, and the guide’s knowledge makes it feel like a traveling history lesson with a view.
This experience is perfect for families, history enthusiasts, and nature lovers who want a balanced, engaging tour without excessive time commitment. The only potential downside is that the duration might feel short for those wanting a more extended cruise.
Bottom Line: If you’re interested in seeing historic waterfront homes, visiting bird-rich islands, and learning about local history—all in 1.5 hours—this cruise offers great value and a relaxed pace.
2. Door County: West Islands & Eagle Bluff Lighthouse Cruise
The Door County: West Islands & Eagle Bluff Lighthouse Cruise is a shorter, 1-hour journey that departs from the busy shoreline to explore Green Bay’s scenic side. Starting with a departure from Fish Creek, the boat heads out past Eagle Bluff Lighthouse, a striking feature in Peninsula State Park, offering insights into its history and significance.
This tour emphasizes birdwatching, particularly the nesting white pelicans, which make their summer homes here. As the boat glides past the Strawberry Islands, the scenery is as much about appreciating the Peninsula’s rugged coastline as it is about spotting wildlife. The guide provides commentary on the lighthouse and the surrounding area, helping you gain a deeper understanding of the region’s maritime history and natural features.
At $47 per person, it’s slightly more expensive than the first tour, but the focus on scenic views and lighthouse history makes it worthwhile for those with limited time or a keen interest in maritime landmarks. The shorter duration makes it a good choice if you’re trying to fit in multiple activities or prefer a quick, scenic escape.
This cruise suits birders, lighthouse fans, and travelers seeking a quick overview of Door County’s western shoreline. However, if you’re interested in more in-depth history or island exploration, this might feel a bit brief.
Bottom Line: For a quick, scenic, wildlife-focused cruise that highlights a historic lighthouse and offers fresh perspectives on Door County’s peninsula, this tour delivers excellent value.
How to Choose
When deciding between these two cruises, consider your interests and schedule. The Cottage Row & Strawberry Islands Cruise offers a longer, more comprehensive experience perfect for those who want history, birding, and scenic beauty in one outing. It’s a good fit if you have time for a relaxed afternoon and want to see a variety of sights.
The West Islands & Eagle Bluff Lighthouse Cruise is better suited for travelers on a tight schedule or those specifically interested in lighthouse history and pelican viewing. It’s a quick but scenic overview that works well as part of a day packed with other activities.
Booking early is advisable, especially in peak summer months, as these popular tours fill quickly. Check the availability in advance and verify the departure times to match your plans.
Final Thoughts
Door County’s boat tours provide a wonderful way to experience the region’s natural and historic charm. The Cottage Row & Strawberry Islands Cruise stands out for its educational value and relaxed pace, making it ideal for history buffs and birdwatchers who want a longer trip. Meanwhile, the West Islands & Eagle Bluff Lighthouse Cruise is perfect for those looking for a quick, scenic highlight with a focus on lighthouse history and pelican watching.
For families wanting a mix of scenery and storytelling, or couples seeking a peaceful water adventure, both tours offer unique perspectives worth exploring. Remember to dress appropriately for the weather, bring your camera, and book ahead to secure your spot. Door County’s waters are calling—make sure to answer early.