Great Lakes Sailing Co. Traverse City & Bay Harbor, Michigan
Customized Charter Experiences

Your Charter.
Your Adventure.

Not sure where to start? Tell us what you're looking for — the islands, the wineries, the hiking trails, the hidden anchorages — and we'll put together a custom itinerary just for your crew.

Start Planning
Simple Process

How It Works

Four quick steps and we'll get back to you with a suggested itinerary and quote tailored to your crew.

1

Tell Us the Basics

Dates, duration, boat size, and whether you'd like a captain.

2

Describe Your Crew

Couples, singles, kids — we'll match you with the right boat and experience.

3

Pick Your Vibe

Island hopping, wine tasting, hiking, off-grid anchorages — or a mix of it all.

4

We'll Be in Touch

Our team reviews your preferences and reaches out with a custom plan and quote.

Sample Itineraries

Need Inspiration?

Here are a few of our favorite themed adventures. These are starting points — every itinerary is customized to your crew, your pace, and the conditions.

🏝️ 5–7 Days

Island Hop

Over 50 islands in our cruising range. Explore remote anchorages, charming island towns, and some of the most spectacular scenery on the Great Lakes.

Sample 5-Day Route

Day 1Northport to Manitou Island
Day 2Manitou Island to Beaver Island
Day 3Beaver Island to High / Garden Island
Day 4High / Garden Island to Northport
Day 5Northport to Power Island to Traverse City

Extended 7-day version available — reaches Mackinac Island.

🍷 4–6 Days

Wine, Beer & Distillery

Northern Michigan is one of the country's premier wine and craft beverage regions. Taste your way along the coast from the water.

Sample 5-Day Route

Day 1Traverse City to Omena
Day 2Omena to Charlevoix
Day 3Charlevoix to Boyne City
Day 4Boyne City to Charlevoix
Day 5Charlevoix to Bower's Harbor to Traverse City

Shorter 4-day version stays closer to Traverse City.

🚴 5 Days

Hike, Bike & Paddle

Combine world-class sailing with shore-side adventure. Bike trails, hiking paths, and paddling opportunities at nearly every stop.

Sample 5-Day Route

Day 1Traverse City to Suttons Bay — bike rental at marina
Day 2Suttons Bay to Old Mission — hiking trails nearby
Day 3Old Mission to Charlevoix — famous Mushroom House walking tour
Day 4Charlevoix to Petoskey — Bear River Trail from the marina
Day 5Petoskey to Northport

Bike rentals, kayak, and SUP rentals available at multiple stops.

What Happens Next

We Do the Heavy Lifting

You tell us what you want. We put it together.

Personal Response

A real person from our team reviews your submission and gets back to you — no automated replies.

Custom Itinerary

We'll suggest a route matched to your preferences, timeframe, and the best conditions for your dates.

Transparent Quote

You'll receive clear pricing based on your boat selection, duration, and any add-ons like a captain or extras.

Design Your Charter

Answer a few quick questions and we'll be in touch with a custom itinerary and quote.