We took the Arnold ferry from Mackinaw City to the island and it was a great experience. Buying…read moretickets online ahead of time was easy (just be sure you have the correct departure city as they also have a ferry from St. Ignace). The tickets are round-trip and are not for any specific date or time, which was really helpful for us as we were traveling with family and it made it easier to coordinate and be flexible. The ferries leave every 1/2 hour or so from Mackinaw City and every 30-45 minutes from the island during the month of June. The schedules are easy to find and read on their website. The ferry was so fun and quick, and I loved seeing the bridge and other boats on the trip. Tip, for the best bridge views on the way to the island, sit on the port (left) side and opposite on the way back. We were able to check our bags on the return trip which was helpful as we had acquired souvenirs (mostly fudge, of course). Everything was packed carefully onto a luggage cart, then unloaded quickly at the Mackinaw City dock when we arrived. There is a parking lot right at the dock, and additional parking lots across the street from the dock. Parking was about $20 per night and payable via a QR code. They even have a shuttle that will take you across the street. Next time I really want to go on the ferry that goes under the bridge. It's a longer trip but seems like it would be such a cool experience.

We had a great experience on the ferry to Mackinac Island, so I was surprised to see such mixed…read morereviews on here. We booked our tickets in advance and boarded the first ferry to the island around 9 am. Be sure to arrive early, as there was a long line of people waiting to board the boat. You can choose between inside seating or sitting at the top of the boat - totally up to your personal preference! The ferry ride was smooth, comfortable, and took around 25 minutes. We had no problem catching a ferry back from the island, but be sure to give yourself enough time to queue in line before the ferry is set to depart, as lines do form.

On our very first night on Mackinac Island, the weather was showing off--mid-60s, sunshine all day,…read morenot a cloud in sight. With the forecast looking more meh-kinac than Mackinac for the rest of the trip, we knew this was our golden hour (literally) to get out on the water. Enter: Sip 'n Sail's Sunset Cruise under the Mackinac Bridge. Let me tell you--this wasn't just a boat ride, it was a floating block party with the best views in Michigan. The boat itself is a two-tier beauty that holds around 100 folks, but lucky for us it wasn't packed. We snagged cushy patio sofa seats on the top deck (pro tip: get in line early!) and parked ourselves right in front of the live entertainment. And what entertainment it was! Our singer had charm, pipes, and a playlist straight out of the Yacht Rock Hall of Fame. Think Michael McDonald meets "Dancing With the Sunset." Everyone was singing, swaying, and probably rethinking their life choices if they didn't know all the words to "Brandy (You're a Fine Girl)." The crew? Absolute gems. From the captain steering us smooth as butter under the Mighty Mac to the bartenders slinging drinks like it was happy hour at sea, they were all fantastic. Special shoutout to Emma, who kept spirits high (and beverages flowing). Drink-wise: the margarita was a bit too sweet for me--like sipping liquefied Skittles--but once I switched over to wine, I was smooth sailing. The highlight? Cruising directly under the Mackinac Bridge while the sun melted into the horizon in a blaze of pinks and golds. It was so breathtaking I half-expected Christopher Cross himself to appear on deck and whisper, "Sail away..." The night closed with a surprise duet: our singer invited a guest up for a Bob Seger number, and let me tell you--dude nailed it. I almost yelled "Play it again, Seger!" All in all, $55 for an hour and a half of boat-side bliss was a steal. Considering Mackinac Island charges $12 for a cup of grapes, this felt like highway--er, waterway--robbery in the best possible way. So if you're on the fence about booking this? Don't be. Just hop aboard. As Christopher Cross says, think of me when you sail away.

Really fun trip. The views underneath the bridge are incredible. There was a singer on board who…read morewas wonderful. She played a good mix of music. Great service by the staff.

Sailing with Windy Escapes, aboard the Stampede, was a wonderfully enjoyable cruise…read more Captain Case and first mate (and son) Kai, both experienced sailors, were passionate about sharing their knowledge of Mackinac Island. Incredibly accommodating, they made sure we were comfortable and confident before leaving the marina, and ensured a welcoming atmosphere on board, giving us a safe and authentic smooth sailing experience, and making us feel at home. Captain Case's workmanship and care for his boat and crew were evident in all his actions. The postcard-worthy views of the island from the boat provided a mesmerizing backdrop of natural beauty that truly left me in awe. The weather was perfect, and the Lake Huron waters cool, clear, & clean. We loved every minute aboard Stampede and would definitely consider a repeat trip.

From the owner: Set sail from Mackinac Island State Harbor aboard our stunning Columbia 50 sailboat for a private…read morecharter experience like no other. Operating daily from June 10 through the end of September, 9 AM to sunset, our sailing charters accommodate up to six passengers-perfect for couples, families, or small groups. In addition to standard excursions, we also offer custom charters tailored to your unique interest, whether it’s a romantic sunset sail, a special celebration, or a full-day adventure. Enjoy a personalized and professional sailing experience from one of Michigan’s most iconic destinations. Book your charter today at windyescape.com.

Get tickets to Beaver island out of charlevoix, Michigan…read more Round trip tickets to and from. You will have to check their website for departure times, amount of baggages you can take and Freight that you can send. Were able to find parking for vehicle and shuttle service back to the boat dock in time to board the ferry. We departed at 2:30 p.m.,arrived around 5:30 pm and desembarked.

Staff is very accommodating helping us sort out a stand by vehicle transfer. Everyone was extremely…read morefriendly!

What a lovely excursion!! This boat trip had something for everyone in our group. Adults loved…read moreall the history and maritime facts. The kids loved the scavenger hunt and wildlife (fish, birds, turtle). It was the perfect length (not too long for the kids) and a great value for the price. I liked hearing about the history of the business and felt good about supporting the owner. It was clean and every staff person, including Captain Jen, was extremely friendly and knowledgeable. I recommend this experience to anyone considering it.

Great excursion! Crew and Captain are kind, professional and helpful while shared interesting…read morehistory and stories of the area. It felt so good to be out on the Great Lakes. Price is well worth it. Who knew there are over 5000 ships preserved in history below the waters!

So much information and great staff Explained everything…read moreevery step of the way Would do this again

Excellent tour of the Soo Locks at Sault Ste. Marie. Excellent information along the way by staff…read more We went through the U.S. locks, toured all along the Canadian steel mill and then came back through the Canadian locks. Big bucket list item - learned a lot. Great tour, great staff.

Capt. Josh is the best sailor in the game. He'll chase that sunset and you'll leave feeling on top…read moreof the world.

Our cruise with Sunshine Charters was a highlight during a late summer trip up north…read more We booked a late morning cruise, and boarded the yacht with the friendliest crew before heading to Lake Charlevoix. They unfurled the sailed and we enjoyed the sunny and breezy day before heading over to Lake Michigan, passing under the drawbridge as we went. Lake Michigan was choppy, but I never felt uncomfortable being out on the sailing yacht throughout. Bathrooms were clean, cold (non-alcoholic) drinks were a-plenty, and there was even a fun space for kiddo to make a fort with the cushions to stay amused. Would highly recommend booking a trip if you get the chance!

Perfect evening on the water! Our large family booked two back to back tours and each group…read moreenjoyed. Wonderful tour full of history from retired teacher from harbor springs high school. Boat is beautiful and it was fun to see Harbor from the water!

The Pointer Boat, has quite a history that matches the community in which it is set: Harbor Point…read moreand Harbor Springs. The boat was originally commissioned to carry supplies, teachers, musicians and more from the main part of Harbor Springs out to the residence of Harbor point which it did until the mid 60s. The residents of Harbor Point couldn't do this themselves because it's an exclusive community. You get the gist -money and privilege. The boat ride was a little over an hour long and took us up and down the coast line with a great narration at least the parts we heard. There were 12 people on the boat which is the capacity plus the captain and first mate. Captain and first mate are great individuals but neither one of them could clearly articulate what they were trying to share on top of the wind and engine noise. At the end of the trip, we suggested they use a microphone. They said oh yeah that's a great idea we will have to consider that. Now really this boat has been in service doing this over decades and no one else has mentioned this?! I would venture to guess they are not allowed by the residents. The boat is docked behind Stafford's pier restaurant. When the restaurant is open, a drink can be purchased from their bar to enjoy while on the boat tour. Unfortunately for us, the restaurant was not open due to the lack of people to staff it. So sad! I would not say this is in any way a luxury tour. You are sitting on hardwood benches. And you need to be somewhat agile as you are stepping down four stairs that are steep from the dock to the bottom of the boat. The boat tour Is intended to provide an overview of the city and its history. I would have given it four stars if we had been able to hear the narration.