Traverse City: Brunch Sail on Tall Ship Manitou

Imagine gliding across Grand Traverse Bay aboard a majestic tall ship while enjoying a hearty brunch and scenic views — that’s exactly what the Brunch Sail on Tall Ship Manitou promises. This experience isn’t just about eating; it’s about combining the thrill of sailing with a relaxing meal in one of Michigan’s most picturesque settings.

What makes this tour particularly appealing? First, you get to sail aboard Michigan’s largest schooner, the impressive Manitou, which promises a sense of adventure and authenticity. Second, the home-cooked brunch prepared on a wood-fired stove offers a unique culinary experience that’s hard to find elsewhere. Third, the chance to participate in sailing activities like raising sails or steering the ship adds a fun, interactive element.

On the flip side, it’s worth noting that the scheduled duration of just two hours might feel brief for some, especially if you’re hoping for a longer maritime adventure. Also, on cold or windy days, dressing in layers and bringing sun protection becomes essential, as the deck offers limited shade.

This experience suits those who love a combination of scenic beauty, maritime history, and good food — perfect for couples, families, or solo travelers looking for a memorable outing. If you’re after a relaxed yet engaging way to experience Traverse City’s waters, this tour deserves a spot on your list.

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Key Points

Authentic Sailing Experience: Help set the sails or steer the ship, adding a hands-on touch to your cruise.
Delicious Home-Cooked Brunch: Enjoy freshly prepared muffins, quiche, and sweets crafted on a wood stove.
Spectacular Views: Cruise past the Traverse City skyline and Old Mission Peninsula — perfect photo opportunities.
Expert Crew: Knowledgeable guides and crew make the journey safe and engaging.
Flexible Dining: First drink included, with options to purchase additional beverages onboard.
Ideal Duration: Two hours of sailing, balance of adventure and relaxation.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Setting Sail from Traverse City

Your journey begins at the Traverse Tall Ship Company with free parking available behind the Great Lakes Discovery Center. Arriving about 30 minutes early ensures smooth check-in and gives you time to soak in the anticipation. Be mindful of local construction, which might add some travel time, and avoid relying solely on Apple Maps, as it has been known to lead visitors astray.

Once checked in, you’re welcomed aboard the Manitou, a vessel that’s not only Michigan’s largest schooner but also a striking sight itself. The ship’s size (3,000 square feet of sail area) and historic charm immediately elevate the experience, setting the tone for a memorable outing.

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Safety and Orientation

A quick safety briefing kicks off the cruise, lasting around five minutes. This session covers basic safety tips and how to participate in sailing activities safely. The crew, led by the experienced Captain Jamie and his team, exudes a friendly and knowledgeable vibe, making even first-time sailors feel comfortable.

Cruising West Arm Grand Traverse Bay

After the briefing, the vessel gently departs from the dock, with the engine disengaged once clear of the harbor. This transition from motor to wind power is a real highlight, as it underscores the traditional sailing experience. You’ll notice the crew invites guests to get involved — whether helping set the sails, taking a turn at the wheel, or simply relaxing and taking photos.

As the ship glides along, the views of Traverse City’s skyline and Old Mission Peninsula unfold before you. Shoppers and nature lovers alike will appreciate the postcard-worthy scenery, especially on a clear day when the water sparkles under the sun.

Savoring the Brunch on Deck

About 30 minutes into the cruise, the crew transitions into your wait staff, serving a full brunch prepared right onboard on the wood-fired stove. The menu features a hearty muffin, quiche, and a selection of sweet and savory dishes, all crafted by a professional chef. Reviewers like Shanon appreciated the delicious cherry orange muffin, and many noted that the brunch was a highlight — a perfect balance of sustenance and flavor.

The beverage lineup includes your first drink — options include local sparkling wine for mimosas, Bloody Mary ingredients, or coffee brewed fresh on the stove. Additional drinks are available for purchase, giving you a chance to enjoy a variety of soft drinks or cocktails as you relax.

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Participating in Sailing Activities

Once underway, the crew invites guests to help with setting the sails or take the helm. This interactive element sets this experience apart from typical boat tours. The guide’s expertise ensures safety and enjoyment, making it a fun opportunity to learn a bit about traditional sailing.

The cruise is designed to be flexible, with wind and weather influencing the exact route. Usually, the sail stays within the lower part of the West Branch of Grand Traverse Bay, offering calm waters and stunning vistas. Reviewers like Shanon shared how she loved snapping pictures with the ship, even joking about soaking up Lake Michigan “literally,” which hints at the immersive experience.

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Wrapping Up and Returning

After about 30 minutes of lunch and sailing, the crew begins to wind down the experience. The sails are lowered, and the engine is engaged to return you safely to the dock. Throughout, the crew maintains a friendly, professional attitude, making sure everyone is comfortable and engaged.

The total duration of two hours includes safety briefings, undocking, the sail, and the return. While some might wish for a longer journey, the concise format makes it easy to fit into a busy itinerary without feeling rushed.

At $80 per person, the brunch sail offers a well-rounded package of scenic sailing, a full home-cooked meal, and engaging activities. When you consider the cost of dining out and a boat tour separately, this experience provides good value, especially given the expert guidance and the unique opportunity to contribute to the sailing process.

The inclusion of your first beverage adds to the value, while the ability to purchase additional drinks onboard allows flexibility. The chance to learn about traditional sailing and explore the bay from a historic vessel enhances the overall experience, making it worthwhile for those seeking more than just a sightseeing cruise.

This tour is perfect for travelers who want more than a typical boat ride. If you enjoy maritime history, hands-on activities, and scenic vistas, you’ll find it engaging. Families and couples will appreciate the relaxed, social atmosphere, and solo travelers often find it a refreshing way to meet others.

Food lovers will enjoy the home-cooked brunch, and photography enthusiasts will love the chance to capture the ship and bay from multiple angles. It’s also a great choice for those who appreciate sustainable, traditional sailing practices and want to support local maritime tourism.

The Brunch Sail on Tall Ship Manitou offers an authentic and picturesque way to experience Michigan’s scenic waters. The combination of friendly crew, delicious food, and the chance to actively participate in sailing makes it stand out from standard sightseeing tours. The two-hour format strikes a good balance between adventure and relaxation, making it suitable for most schedules.

While it’s important to dress in layers and prepare for weather changes, the stunning views and unique ambiance more than compensate. If you’re seeking a memorable, engaging, and scenic outing in Traverse City, this sail provides a delightful blend of adventure and comfort.

What should I bring on the brunch sail?
Bring a hat, sunscreen, a jacket, and comfortable clothes. The deck can be cool and windy, even in summer, so layering is advisable.

Can I help with sailing activities?
Yes, guests are encouraged to help set the sails or steer the ship, making the experience interactive and fun.

Is there parking available?
Yes, free parking is available behind the Great Lakes Discovery Center, directly across from the ticket booth at the Discovery Pier.

How long is the cruise?
The total experience lasts around two hours, including safety briefings, sailing, brunch, and return.

Are additional beverages available?
Yes, besides your included first drink, you can purchase soft drinks, alcoholic beverages, and cocktails onboard.

Is the experience wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible, but it’s recommended to contact the provider in advance if assistance is needed.

What if I have dietary restrictions?
When booking, you can note dietary preferences, and the chef will do their best to accommodate your needs.

Can I bring my own drinks or snacks?
Soft-sided coolers are allowed with your own non-alcoholic drinks and snacks, but outside alcohol isn’t permitted onboard.

This Brunch Sail on Tall Ship Manitou combines scenic beauty, interactive sailing, and a hearty meal — a genuine way to enjoy Traverse City’s waters that’s both fun and memorable.