As its name suggests, Mackinac Island is surrounded by water. That’s why most visitors travel to Mackinac Island by ferry boat. It’s also why many fun things to do once you arrive on Mackinac Island involve a boat, too.
Of course, just seeing the breathtaking water views around Mackinac Island – perhaps from the Fort Mackinac Tea Room up high on the bluff or from the Cupola Bar at Grand Hotel – makes for a memorable experience. But if you want to get out on the water during your visit to Mackinac Island, there are several great options.
Here are 7 extraordinary boat tours to take while staying on Mackinac Island
Mackinac Island Boat Charter
Hinckley Picnic Boat Tour offers private powerboat trips off Mackinac Island for small groups of up to six passengers. Enjoy a private 90-minute cruise through the scenic Straits of Mackinac, departing from the private dock at Hotel Iroquois. Designed for those seeking a more intimate experience on the water, this excursion offers a unique perspective of Mackinac Island's shoreline and surrounding landmarks.
Each cruise includes a dedicated captain and personalized service throughout your journey. Catering with beverages and light refreshments can be arranged in advance, making it an ideal outing for celebrations, romantic evenings, family gatherings, or simply relaxing on the water.
READ MORE: Where to dock your boat for overnight stay on Mackinac Island
Mackinac Island Fishing Charters
You can treat yourself to northern Michigan whitefish in any number of delicious Mackinac Island restaurants. You can also reel in a tasty catch yourself on a Mackinac Island charter fishing trip. North Shore Fishing Charters specialize in deep water trolling the Straits of Mackinac where trout and salmon are abundant. The fish range in size from an average weight of eight or nine pounds to more than 20 pounds when you haul in a big one! Full or half-day charters with all equipment is provided. They’ll even clean, filet and bag your catch for you.
READ MORE: Fishing the Great Lakes off Mackinac Island, then and now
Mackinac Island Catamaran Charter
Enjoy intimate trips aboard the catamaran “Athina” offering a distinct experience for everyone. From a pleasure cruise during the afternoon to corporate retreats, SUP excursions, kid’s activities, onboard events like bachelorette parties or elopements to evening sunset cruises, Great Lakes Marine Charters has something for everyone!
Mackinac Island Parasailing
You can go boating and soar 600 feet above the water at the same time on an exhilarating Mackinaw Parasailing experience. The captain and crew help you take off and land right from the deck of the boat, so you never even get wet if you don’t want to.
Single and tandem flights and even triples are available. Each flight lasts 10 to 12 minutes and there’s seating for up to 6 guests on the boat, so a trip with a full boat typically lasts about an hour.
READ MORE: Outdoor Activities on Mackinac Island Top 12 Mackinac Island Attractions for Teenagers
Sip N Sail Cruises
For a sunset party on the water, a Sip ‘n Sail cruise off Mackinac Island is the way to go. The 81-foot Isle Royale Queen III supports large groups with a full-service cash bar, live entertainment, restrooms, heated cabins and multiple viewing areas on deck as you enjoy an incredibly scenic 90-minute cruise out to the Mackinac Bridge and back.
While the Sunset Cruise is the most popular Sip ‘n Sail, you can book a variety of other trips including happy hours and Sunday mornings, too.
Private charters also are available, and Sip ‘n Sails often host events for Mackinac Island weddings such as bachelor and bachelorette parties.
READ MORE: Mackinac Island’s Top 9 Things to Do for Couples Top Things to Do for Girls Weekend on Mackinac Island
Mackinac Island Sailing Tour
Set sail from Mackinac Island State Harbor aboard a stunning 50-foot Columbia 50 sailboat for a private charter experience like no other. Windy Escapes Charters operates daily from mid-June through the end of September, 9:00 AM to sunset, their sailing charters accommodate up to six passengers—perfect for couples, families, or small groups.
In addition to standard excursions, they also offer custom charters tailored to your unique interests, 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.
Mackinac Island Boat Tour
For a waterborne tour with a historical flair, book a seat on Mackinac Island’s Ugly Anne. Captain Chris West and his wife, Heather, found the old lobster boat in a New England shipyard and restored it for use off Mackinac Island.
There’s room for up to 30 people to enjoy hearing stories and first-hand accounts of all things Mackinac Island on one of two personalized tours: a sunset cruise or a late afternoon ride. Both trips take you out to the Mackinac Bridge and back and last about an hour.
The Ugly Anne is available for private charters and wedding parties, too.
READ MORE: Things to Do on Mackinac Island for History Buffs
