The 5 Best Cruises And Boat Tours in Green Bay and Door County
Green Bay and Door County reveal their true charm from the water. Whether it’s the historic lighthouses, towering bluffs, or tiny islands teeming with birdlife, getting out on the water offers a unique perspective you can’t find on land. From leisurely sightseeing cruises to private boat rentals, this region’s lake and bay excursions deliver a real sense of Wisconsin’s coastal beauty and history.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through the top five boat experiences, comparing what each offers, their highlights, and who they’re best suited for. Whether you want a quick hour-long tour or a private boat for your family, these options highlight the diversity of water-based adventures available — but each has its own flavor and focus.
Expect scenic routes past iconic landmarks like Eagle Bluff Lighthouse, thrilling tales of shipwrecks, and opportunities to see wildlife and historic sites up close. We’ve included detailed insights to help you pick the perfect cruise or boat rental to match your interests, budget, and schedule.
Quick Overview
This roundup features five standout experiences: a scenic Eagle Bluff Lighthouse cruise, a more extended Death’s Door crossing, a scenic Cottage Row and Strawberry Islands tour, a private boat rental for groups, and an intimate Peninsula Park caves tour. Each offers something different — from narrated sightseeing to hands-on boat driving, with options for families, history buffs, and adventure seekers alike.
1. West Islands & Eagle Bluff Lighthouse Cruise
The West Islands & Eagle Bluff Lighthouse Cruise stands out for its brief but rich experience. At $34 per person for roughly an hour, it’s one of the most affordable ways to see Door County’s rugged shoreline. This tour is perfect if you’re short on time but want a taste of the area’s natural and historic beauty.
Your captain takes you between small islands dotted with shorebirds, past towering bluffs, and up to the historic Eagle Bluff Lighthouse. The narration adds context about the area’s maritime history and local ecology. The boat features restrooms and drinks (soda/water), making for comfortable viewing. One of the highlights is the close-up views of Eagle Bluff Lighthouse, built in 1868, standing as a sentinel over the water.
Most travelers appreciate the relaxed pace and the chance to capture photos of the scenic coastline and birdlife. Kids especially enjoy the opportunity to sit back and watch the scenery or even try steering the boat under supervision. The guide’s stories make the trip educational as well as scenic.
Bottom Line: If you want an accessible, budget-friendly introduction to Door County’s natural beauty and history, this cruise offers excellent value. It’s suited for families, couples, or anyone who enjoys relaxed sightseeing with a knowledgeable narrator.
2. Boat Cruise – North Shore to Death’s Door Crossing
For those eager to explore Wisconsin’s “Great Lake,” this North Shore to Death’s Door Crossing is a must. At $47.25 per person and lasting about 2 hours, it’s an immersive experience combining scenic views with storytelling about the region’s past.
This cruise along Sister Bay’s north shore offers magnificent vistas of bluffs, bird rookeries, and tiny islands. Captain-led narratives include tales of shipwrecks, local fishing traditions, and historic battles, enriching the visual splendor. Highlights include views of Ellison Bluff State Natural Area, Gills Rock, and the Plum Island Lighthouse, with a good chance to spot wildlife along the way.
What makes this trip stand out is the chance to experience “Death’s Door”, a notoriously tricky passage for sailors historically. The boat offers snacks, drinks, and restrooms for comfort. Passengers often enjoy the open-air top deck but should be prepared for some wind and weather exposure.
Reviews note the engaging storytelling and beautiful weather, though some mention the challenge of hearing guides when below deck. It’s best suited for those who enjoy maritime history, scenic vistas, and a leisurely pace.
Bottom Line: This cruise offers a richer, storytelling-filled experience emphasizing the area’s maritime history, ideal for those with an interest in shipwrecks and scenic natural beauty.
3. Strawberry Islands Scenic Boat Tour and Historic Cottage Row
The Strawberry Islands Scenic Boat Tour combines scenic nature, local history, and charming sights. Costing $45 per person for about 1.5 hours, it’s a great choice for travelers wanting a well-rounded experience.
Starting along Fish Creek’s historic Cottage Row, the tour takes you past waterfront homes of varying ages, highlighting why this area is such a desirable spot for vacationers and year-round residents. Next, your boat heads toward the Strawberry Islands, with views of Chambers Island and the now-retired Adventure Island camp once popular with local kids.
The tour also includes a close look at Eagle Bluff Lighthouse, built in 1848, and provides insights into early settlement and maritime life. The guide’s commentary, delivered by a knowledgeable captain, makes the journey educational and engaging. The boat itself is comfortable, and the scenery impressive, especially the chance to see the “cottages” on the water and hear stories about their owners.
Travelers report that the history and views make this tour memorable. It’s perfect for visitors interested in architecture, local lore, and natural beauty, with enough time to enjoy the scenery without feeling rushed.
Bottom Line: This tour marries history and nature comfortably in a 1.5-hour format, ideal for those who want a comprehensive look at Door County’s waterfront.
4. 3-Hour Boat Rental up to 15 people
If your idea of a perfect day involves steering your own boat, the 3-Hour Private Boat Rental in Sister Bay is your ticket. For $260 per group, it accommodates up to 15 passengers and is suitable for families, friends, or groups seeking flexibility.
This experience lets you explore Door County waters at your own pace in a 2022 tritoon boat. With a full tank of gas, you can cruise between bays, anchor for a swim, or just enjoy the scenery. Water sports upgrades are available, adding fun with tubing or wakeboarding. Life jackets are provided, and the rental includes all safety equipment.
It’s an excellent option for those comfortable on the water and wanting a tailored experience. Keep in mind, a boat license may be required, so check eligibility beforehand. While this option offers independence, it’s not ideal if you prefer guided tours or detailed narration. This is more about freedom to explore on your own.
Reviews note that the boat is new, clean, and easy to operate, making it a hit for groups wanting an adventurous day on the water.
Bottom Line: Perfect for groups with boating experience who want a custom, private outing, whether for recreation, water sports, or just relaxing on the water.
5. Peninsula Park Caves Scenic Boat Tour
The Peninsula Park Caves Tour offers a unique glimpse into the geological past of Door County. Priced at $45 per person for about 1.5 hours, it’s especially appealing for geology buffs and those interested in natural formations.
This tour cruises along the shoreline of Peninsula State Park, with highlights including Eagle Bluff Lighthouse and the caves high above the water, where evidence of the Silurian Sea’s ancient past is visible. The guide points out the caves and explains how erosion shaped them over thousands of years. The boat provides a comfortable, enclosed environment, but you can step outside for better views and photos.
The tour also passes Horseshoe Island and other notable features, providing a well-rounded view of the park’s coastal geology. Many travelers praise the knowledgeable narration and the opportunity to get close to natural caves and rock formations.
This tour is ideal for those who want a bit of geology, history, and scenic beauty in one trip. It’s suitable for families, couples, and anyone curious about the natural history beneath Door County’s cliffs.
Bottom Line: A fascinating, educational cruise that combines scenic views with geological insights, perfect for curious travelers wanting more than just pretty scenery.
How to Choose the Right Boat Tour
When selecting the best boat experience, consider your interests first. If you prefer a quick, scenic overview with storytelling, Tour #1 or Tour #3 are great. For those who love maritime history and longer journeys, Tour #2 offers a richer narrative. Families or groups seeking flexibility should consider the private boat rental, while geology enthusiasts will enjoy the caves tour.
Budget and time are also key: short tours suit quick visits, while the private rental gives you a full day’s freedom. Weather plays a role too; enclosed boats are better in colder or rainy weather, whereas open decks shine on sunny days.
Booking early is wise, especially in peak season, to secure your preferred date and time. Check weather forecasts and dress accordingly — layers are often best for boat trips.
Final Thoughts
From scenic lighthouse cruises to private boat rentals, Green Bay and Door County offer plenty of ways to experience their waters. For a quick taste of coastal beauty, the West Islands & Eagle Bluff Lighthouse Cruise is an excellent choice. If you’re after a longer, story-filled journey, the North Shore to Death’s Door Crossing provides a memorable experience. Families and history buffs will enjoy the Cottage Row and Strawberry Islands tour, while the geology-minded will find the Peninsula Park Caves cruise intriguing.
For groups with a sense of adventure, the private boat rental opens up endless possibilities. No matter your style, these tours showcase the region’s natural and historical richness from a perspective only water can provide. Book early, plan for the weather, and prepare for some truly memorable Wisconsin waterscapes.