Spring Itinerary
May - June
"Cherry Blossom Time and Watershed Appreciation" - while the exact date of "full bloom" varies, this cruise always explores the beauty that is Grand Traverse Bay on Northern Lake Michigan. Your cruise will immerse you in the agri-culture of the local fruit, the delightful Cherry. Menus aboard are cherry oriented, with hints of other local fruit.
Day 1 - Sail from West Grand Traverse Bay to Bowers Harbor, anchor in this secluded bay off Old Mission Peninsula. After lunch at anchor use the Balia's zodiac to explore Power Island and/or take a privately led land tour of an operating Cherry Orchard. Cocktails aboard the Balia are followed by a dinner on your own at the Boathouse restaurant.
Day 2 - After breakfast sail across Grand Traverse Bay to Sutton's Bay, followed by lunch on board. Spend the afternoon exploring the boutique stores and art galleries of Suttons Bay or take an optional tour of the Inland Seas (or their education center when completed). Dinner on own.
Day 3 - Sail to Omena to anchor for lunch. Then sail the rest of the day around the point of Old Mission Peninsula to anchor off of Haserot Beach. Tour Old Mission Lighthouse, stop in for an ice cream cone at the Old Mission General Store with a relaxing dinner onboard at anchor.
Day 4 - On to the quiet town of Northport. Afternoon Dinner is again on board the Balia this evening.
Day 5- Sail back to Traverse City with a final farewell dinner at Scott's Harbor Grill
Fall Intinerary
Mid Sept to late October
Harvest Time Touring the Fall Colors - This sailing itinerary features grape growing and the winery industry as well as that of apples.
Day 1 - Sail from West Grand Traverse Bay to Bowers Harbor, anchor in this protected bay off Old Mission Peninsula. After lunch tour the Grey Hare Inn Vineyard and experience wine tasting at several local wineries. Dinner on own at the Boathouse.
Day 2 - After a morning exploring Power Island by zodiac, sail across Grand Traverse Bay to Suttons Bay for a shopping excursion to local art galleries or more wine tasting at the excellent wineries of Leelanau Peninsula. Dinner on your own at one of several excellent restaurants.
Day 3 - Sail to Old Mission's Haserot Beach, tour of Old Mission Lighthouse and the areas fall colors with a hot apple cider at the General Store to warm you up before your return to the boat. Depending on weather alternate harbor for day 3 is Elk Rapids.
Day 4 - Journey on to the nautical town of Northport, where you'll enjoy a tour of Kilcherman's Christmas Cove Farms and their antique apples, along with an antique soft drink can collection. Dinner onboard at the marina.
Day 5 - Return to Traverse City for a farewell dinner at Scott's Harbor Grill.
