Manitou Evening Sail Experience in Traverse City
Traverse City, United States

Manitou Evening Sail Experience

Outty Ranking 66 4.8 · 42 traveler reviews2 hoursFrom $73

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September 2026

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Adults

Age 13 and over

2

Children

Age 12 and under

0

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From, per person$73
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Outty Ranking

66/100

Solid Choice. Our proprietary evaluation. How we score

Traveler rating

4.8/5

Based on 42 traveler reviews. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.

Quick answer

Is Manitou Evening Sail Experience worth booking?

Manitou Evening Sail Experience is a 2-hour experience in Traverse City, United States, from $73 per person. It scores 66 out of 100 on the Outty Ranking, which we label “Solid Choice, based on a 4.8/5 rating across 42 reviews. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the start time. Same-day spots are currently showing.

Outty Ranking
66 / 100
Rating
4.8/5 (42)
Duration
2 hours
From
$73 per person

What makes this tour truly unique is the opportunity to experience the magic of sailing aboard the majestic tall ship Manitou on the breathtaking Grand Traverse Bay. This isn't just a boat ride; it's an immersion into th

What you get

    About this experience

    What makes this tour truly unique is the opportunity to experience the magic of sailing aboard the majestic tall ship Manitou on the breathtaking Grand Traverse Bay. This isn't just a boat ride; it's an immersion into the age of sail. For two unforgettable hours, you'll be invited to actively participate in setting the sails, feeling the power of the wind as the engine is silenced, and the ship glides silently across the water. Whether you choose to relax and soak in the stunning scenery or learn the ropes firsthand from our expert crew, assisting with lines or even taking the helm, this evening sail offers a truly authentic and engaging sailing experience unlike any other.

    What's included

    Included

    • Our best trip protection plan included, cancel until 24 hours before your cruise!
    • English Speaking Guide

    Not included

    • Gratuities
    • Snacks
    • Alcoholic beverages
    • Carbonated beverages
    • Bottled water

    What you'll see and do

    1. Grand Traverse Bay

      Embark on a relaxing and informative sailing adventure on the pristine waters of lower West Grand Traverse Bay! This scenic cruise offers stunning views of the Traverse City waterfront, including iconic landmarks like the historic Park Place Hotel and the Great Lakes Maritime Academy, home to the impressive 224 ft. training vessel, State of Michigan. This is more than just a boat ride! You're welcome to actively participate, helping our crew raise the sails and even taking a turn at the helm – a fantastic photo opportunity! Our friendly captain and crew are passionate about sailing and eager to share their knowledge. They'll be happy to chat with you one-on-one, answering your questions and making your experience unforgettable. Feel free to bring along a simple meal, like sandwiches, to enjoy while soaking in the breathtaking views and fresh air. Get ready to relax, learn, and create lasting memories on this delightful sailing excursion!

      Pass by without stopping

    2. Traverse City

      Experience a unique vantage of the city skyline from the water.

      Pass by without stopping

    3. Enjoy the view of Old Mission Peninsula from the water.

      Pass by without stopping

    Where it starts and ends

    Meeting point

    Traverse City

    Plan to arrive at least 30 min early, and be aware of traffic. Park behind Discovery Center Collaborative (13170 S West Bay Shore Dr) across the street from our ticket booth. Please use the pedestrian crossing to get to us! If you are getting dropped off, you can go directly to Discovery Pier.

    Hotel pickup

    No pickup: everyone meets at the start point.

    Ends at

    Plan to arrive at least 30 min early, and be aware of traffic. Park behind Discovery Center Collaborative (13170 S West Bay Shore Dr) across the street from our ticket booth. Please use the pedestrian crossing to get to us! If you are getting dropped off, you can go directly to Discovery Pier.

    Before you book

    Cancellation
    For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
    Languages
    en
    Ticket
    Mobile Only
    Runs on
    Every day
    Group size
    Up to 15 travelers per booking
    Operated by
    Schooner Manitou - Day Tours

    Know before you go

    • Wheelchair accessible
    • Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
    • Service animals allowed
    • Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
    • All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
    • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
    • We strongly recommend sunscreen and a hat.
    • Please leave beverages and coolers ashore. We do have a bar aboard with a variety of soft drinks and alcoholic beverages.
    • All passengers should wear rubber soft-soled sneakers/tennis shoes or sandals.
    • Even at the height of summer, it’s usually cooler on the water. We recommend having a jacket or sweater with you.

    Photos

    Manitou Evening Sail Experience in Traverse City, photo 2Manitou Evening Sail Experience in Traverse City, photo 3Manitou Evening Sail Experience in Traverse City, photo 4Manitou Evening Sail Experience in Traverse City, photo 5Manitou Evening Sail Experience in Traverse City, photo 6Manitou Evening Sail Experience in Traverse City, photo 7

    What travelers are saying

    Outty’s summary of the themes that recur across 40 traveler reviews. Written by us, not quoted from reviewers.

    Knowledge and storytelling

    5 mentions

    Reviewers describe the commentary as informative rather than scripted.

    Photo opportunities

    2 mentions

    The views and photo stops come up again and again.

    Traveler reviews

    40 verified traveler reviews for Manitou Evening Sail Experience. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.

    5 star
    36
    4 star
    1
    3 star
    2
    2 star
    0
    1 star
    1
    Sort
    C1533ZRjimm · August 2026

    Great

    Great, crew was great, trip was great

    via Tripadvisor

    nmead615 · August 2026

    So much fun and...

    So much fun and interactive! The captain and crew were great!! We had a wonderful time, would definitely do this again!!

    via Viator

    jonj709 · August 2026

    Absolutely a must experience

    We did not know what to expect, and we’re pleasantly surprised! It was easy to check in, the crew was wonderful, and the sunset spectacular! I would recommend it to anyone coming to the Traverse City area

    via Tripadvisor

    Leni_H · August 2026

    Very well organized,...

    Very well organized, staff very friendly and well trained the whole experience was very positive and nice

    via Viator

    530marylynng · August 2026

    Making memories-

    Highly recommend. Great value! Perfect weather for an excellent evening, friendly staff. Wish there was a way to get a pic with the full sails up - full pic of the mighty Manitou. ( like from a passing boat) Were there any for sell in the gift area- I will investigate. Definitely will come again. Thank you captain Jamie, and crew Jenn, Emma, Tater & Alex! Ahoy!

    Response from the operator: Thanks for joining us and we are so glad you enjoyed every part of the experience! We have a top-notch crew, and it's always so satisfying to have them recognized for their hard work and customer service. We do have postcards of Manitou for sale in our office, but you'll just have to come back for them!

    via Tripadvisor

    Good to know

    Duration
    2 hours
    Free cancellation
    Up to 24h before
    Minimum age to book
    All ages
    Availability
    Bookable today
    Runs on
    Every day
    Hotel pickup
    No pickup, meet at start point
    Booked in 30 days
    15
    Verdict
    Solid Choice

    Why this scores 66

    The Outty Ranking is a weighted composite. Here is how this experience performed on each component.

    Traveler sentiment (30% weight)87
    Review evidence (18% weight)53
    Booking momentum (14% weight)46
    Value for money (12% weight)33
    Listing quality (10% weight)84
    Local standing (8% weight)44
    Booking flexibility (8% weight)100

    Manitou Evening Sail Experience: questions travelers ask

    Practical detail on this experience, plus the wider planning questions for Traverse City.

    How much does Manitou Evening Sail Experience cost?

    +

    Prices start at $73 per person. The final price depends on the date, the time slot and the number of travelers, and peak weekends in Traverse City usually price higher than midweek mornings. Live pricing and remaining availability are confirmed on the booking screen before you pay.

    How long does Manitou Evening Sail Experience take?

    +

    Plan for about 2 hours from start to finish, not counting travel to the meeting point. Most travelers leave another 30 minutes on either side so the rest of the day in Traverse City is not rushed.

    Is Manitou Evening Sail Experience worth it?

    +

    It holds an Outty Ranking of 66 out of 100, which we label "Solid Choice". That score blends traveler sentiment (4.8/5 across 42 reviews), the depth of that review evidence, recent booking momentum, value for money against comparable last minute in Traverse City, and how flexible the cancellation terms are.

    Can I cancel or reschedule Manitou Evening Sail Experience?

    +

    Yes. Cancel free up to 24 hours before the start time for a full refund. Inside that window the booking is non-refundable, and no-shows are not refunded.

    Is Manitou Evening Sail Experience suitable for kids and families?

    +

    Yes, all ages are welcome. Families should still weigh the 2-hour running time, and strollers are easier on the earlier, quieter departures.

    How far in advance should I book Manitou Evening Sail Experience?

    +

    Around 15 people booked this in the last 30 days, so popular slots go early. Two to three weeks ahead is comfortable in shoulder season, while summer weekends and holidays in Traverse City can sell out a month out. Same-day spots do open up when other travelers cancel, so it is worth checking if you are already in town.

    What should I bring or wear?

    +

    Bring photo ID, your booking confirmation on your phone, a refillable water bottle and comfortable shoes. Dress for the weather in Traverse City and add a light layer if any part of the 2-hour experience runs outdoors or after sunset.

    Where does Manitou Evening Sail Experience start and how do I get there?

    +

    The exact meeting point and directions are on your voucher once you book, and they sit in central Traverse City within reach of public transport. Arrive 15 minutes early: late arrivals are treated as no-shows by most operators.

    What are the best things to do in Traverse City?

    +

    Traverse City pairs Old Mission and Leelanau winery tours with Sleeping Bear Dunes trips, kayak and paddleboard rentals on Grand Traverse Bay and fall colour drives. On Outty we rank every Traverse City experience on the same 0 to 100 scale, and alongside this one the highest scorers right now include 5-Hour Traverse City Wine Tour: 4 Wineries on Old Mission Peninsula, NON-BUS 4 Winery Traverse Wine Tour on Old Mission - ICE COLD AC, 5-Hour Traverse City Wine Tour: 3 Wineries on Leelanau Peninsula. The city page groups everything into most popular, highest reviewed, last minute and family-friendly so you can build a day around what actually delivers.

    When is the best time to visit Traverse City?

    +

    June to October, with peak colour in early October. Booking patterns follow the same curve: prices and queues climb in peak weeks, while shoulder season gives you better availability on the top-ranked experiences and more room to change plans.

    How many days do you need in Traverse City?

    +

    Three full days covers the headline sights without sprinting. A workable rhythm is one anchor experience each morning, such as this one, an unhurried afternoon in a single neighborhood, then a food or nightlife booking in the evening. Five days lets you add a day trip outside the city.

    Do I book through Outty or through the operator?

    +

    Outty ranks and explains the experiences, then hands you to Viator to complete the booking with the operator directly. The price is the same as booking on Viator yourself, and Outty earns an affiliate commission on the referral, which is how the rankings stay free to read.

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