Traverse City: Sunset Sail Grand Traverse Bay with Wine & Food

Summary

Traverse City sunset sail with wine tasting, food and stories on Grand Traverse Bay

You’ll step aboard a classic schooner in Traverse City for a sunset sail across Grand Traverse Bay, tasting local wine, cocktails, and snacks like cheese and fudge along the way. Listen to stories from your guide as you relax into lake breezes and changing light. It’s not fancy—just honest Michigan warmth with good company and views you might remember longer than you expect.

What’s the experience like?

The first thing I noticed stepping onto Wind Dancer was the way the wood felt under my shoes—kind of worn smooth, not slippery, which I was grateful for since I’d worried about falling in front of everyone. Our captain had this easy way about him, joking about his “sea legs” even though we were still tied up at the dock in Traverse City. There was a little chill in the air but nothing a sweater couldn’t fix. I could smell lake water and something faintly sweet—maybe from the fudge they’d later serve us.

We drifted out into Grand Traverse Bay just as the sun started to dip behind some low clouds. Our guide (I think her name was Jamie?) pointed toward Old Mission Peninsula and told us how locals used to race schooners here—she got a laugh out of me when she tried to pronounce “Leelanau” for the out-of-towners. About an hour in, they passed around cheese and these crunchy Great Lakes potato chips that honestly tasted better than any chips I’ve had at home (could be the wind or just being hungry). The wine was local, too—dry white, not too sweet—and there were cocktails if you wanted something stronger.

I didn’t expect to feel so relaxed, just leaning against the rail with a glass in hand, listening to people swap stories about their Michigan summers. There’s this quiet that settles over everyone when the sky goes orange—nobody wants to break it. Someone’s kid asked if we could see Canada from here (nope), and Jamie just grinned and said on a clear day you might believe it. The boat rocked gently; you could hear gulls somewhere off near shore. It all felt slower than usual life—I still think about that view sometimes when things get noisy back home.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Sunset sail with food and drinks

• Check in 30 minutes before departure
• Attend 10-minute welcome by 2nd Mate
• Board the schooner Wind Dancer
• Learn about vessel and local history
• Enjoy complimentary food and drinks
• Watch the sunset over Grand Traverse Bay
• Disembark after 2.5-hour sail

Top questions

How long is the Traverse City sunset sail?

The sunset sail lasts 2.5 hours from departure to return.

Is food included on the Grand Traverse Bay sailing tour?

Yes, local snacks like cheese, charcuterie, Great Lakes Potato Chips, and fudge are included.

Are drinks provided during the sunset sail?

Yes, wine tasting, cocktails by TC Whiskey Co., cider, beer, soda, and water are available onboard.

Where does the tour depart from in Traverse City?

The check-in kiosk is at The Delamar Resort, 615 E. Front Street.

Is parking available for guests?

Yes, free parking is available at the check-in kiosk location.

Can I bring my own alcoholic drinks onboard?

No, outside alcoholic beverages are not allowed on board.

Are vegetarian or gluten-free options available?

Yes; contact them directly before your trip for special dietary needs.

What should I wear for the sunset sailing tour?

Dress for changing weather—bring rain gear or sweaters and non-skid footwear for boating.

Will tours be rescheduled if it rains?

Tours will be rescheduled if necessary due to inclement weather conditions.

What’s included

Your evening includes pickup at The Delamar Resort in Traverse City before boarding Wind Dancer for a 2.5-hour sunset sail with local wine tasting, signature cocktails by TC Whiskey Co., cider or beer if you prefer something else, plus snacks like cheese boards from favorite area makers and Murdick’s fudge for dessert—all served as you glide across Grand Traverse Bay with your local crew guiding the way.