Notice: This attraction is no longer in business. For a boat tour that does operate inside Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore we suggest taking the Manitou Island Transit.

Original post >>

See the Dunes from a new perspective

The Sleeping Bear Dunes and the National Lakeshore are still the number one reason visitors flock to this area in the summer. Now there’s a whole new way to appreciate them; from the water.

 

The Sleeping Bear Dunes Cruise opened their doors this month in Frankfort to a warm welcome. After rumors of their arrival as early as last fall I was anxious to see this business arrive in town from their home in the Upper Peninsula. I stopped by their office this week to learn more about it.

The Miner’s Castle is docked on the Betsie Bay in the heart of Frankfort, Michigan. Across the street, about a block from the docks in the old Firestone building, is the office where passengers check in.

The narrated tour of the coastline takes you from Betsie Bay in Frankfort, past the well known Point Betsie Lighthouse, the mouth of the Platte River and up to the Scenic Overlook in Empire. Along the 2 hour and 45 minute trip you’ll learn about the Legend of Sleeping Bear, and experience this unique geological area from a different point of view. The captain entertains the passengers with tales of shipwrecks and even murder in a small community by the shore. Meanwhile, panoramic views abound as you cruise a quarter mile from the ever changing shoreline.

Passengers travel in comfort on the Miner’s Castle, no matter the weather. Sit inside the enclosed cabin, or enjoy the breeze on the deck or second-tier seating above the cabin. Restrooms are available, as are snacks and sodas, but no alcohol is allowed. Right now they are not licensed to serve alcohol on board. You can however bring a lunch. In fact, Crescent Bakery, a local restaurant, has created a special menu for cruise passengers and will deliver right to the boat.

Looking for a new way to appreciate the Sleeping Bear Dunes? Then check out the Sleeping Bear Dunes Cruise in Frankfort. They sail daily from June through October. There is a 2pm sail, and a sunset sail starting at 7pm in July. Group rates and private charters are available for weddings, family reunions, corporate retreats and more.

Traveling with your pets? Sleeping Bear Dunes Cruise will kennel them for FREE while you sail! No more worries about leaving them home or waiting in a hot vehicle.