Michigan’s Upper Peninsula is renowned for its stunning natural beauty, pristine lakes, lush forests, and rugged coastline. One of the best ways to experience the splendor of the UP is through boat tours, offering front-row access to this watery wonder. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, history buff, or adventure seeker, there’s a boat tour for everyone in your travel party. Let’s embark on a journey to discover the top boat tours on the Upper Peninsula of Michigan. Please note that most boat tours are offered from mid-spring through early Fall.
Whether you are planning a trip to the UP or the shores of Lake Michigan, be sure to get our complimentary Vacation Guide. It is packed with our top picks for regional attractions, outdoor adventures, and the best places to stay!
Upper Peninsula Boat Tours for Your Itinerary
Pictured Rocks Cruises
Munising, MI
Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore, along Lake Superior’s southern shore, is a treasure trove of unforgettable landscapes. Explore the towering sandstone cliffs, colorful rock formations, and pristine beaches. Pictured Rocks Cruises offers narrated tours that take visitors on a memorable journey along the shoreline, providing close-up views of iconic landmarks such as Chapel Rock, Miners Castle, and Lover’s Leap. Choose between a sunset cruise or a daytime tour. Then, decide if you want the classic cruise or a tour that includes Spray Falls. Make your reservations online.
Glass Bottom Shipwreck Tours
Munising, MI
Step back in time to the industrial ages of American shipping history with an exciting excursion on Lake Superior with Glass Bottom Shipwreck Tours. Immerse yourself in the natural underwater museum of the lake, where you’ll encounter a rare gem: a fully intact wooden sailing ship dating back to before the Civil War. Resting just a few feet below the lake’s surface, this remarkable relic offers a fascinating glimpse into the past.
During the two-hour boat tour, you’ll explore two shipwreck sites, marvel at towering rock cliffs and intricate caves, and visit a historic lighthouse. Along the way, soak in the breathtaking beauty of Grand Island and Munising Bay. Keep an eye out for majestic North American Bald Eagles, which are often spotted nesting along the shoreline. Reservations are highly encouraged and can be made on their website.
Isle Royale Ferry Service
Cooper Harbor, MI
Isle Royale National Park, situated in the northwest corner of Lake Superior, is a remote wilderness paradise known for its pristine forests, abundant wildlife, and secluded hiking trails. It is a fantastic place for a day trip. The Isle Royale Ferry Service provides transportation to the island, offering passengers a scenic cruise across Lake Superior. During the 3.75-hour trip, travelers can enjoy panoramic views of the lake and surrounding landscapes, with opportunities to spot wildlife along the way. Experience the tranquility and solitude of Isle Royale’s remote wilderness aboard the ferry.
Keweenaw Adventure Company
Copper Harbor, MI
Kayaks are boats, too!! For adventure on the water, Keweenaw Adventure Company offers kayak tours of the Keweenaw Peninsula’s stunning coastline. Paddle along Lake Superior’s shores, explore secluded coves and hidden beaches, and marvel at the rugged beauty of Michigan’s northernmost reaches. Experienced guides lead participants on memorable kayak adventures, providing insights into the area’s natural history, geology, and ecology. Discover the magic of the Keweenaw Peninsula from a unique perspective on a kayak tour with Keweenaw Adventure Company. Five guided tours are available, ranging from 2.5 hours to a full day on the water.
Soo Locks Boat Tours
Sault Ste. Marie, MI
The Soo Locks, located in historic Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan, are a marvel of engineering and a vital transportation link between Lake Superior and the lower Great Lakes. Soo Locks Boat Tours provide educational excursions that traverse the locks, allowing passengers to witness firsthand the process of raising and lowering ships between different water levels. Learn about the Soo Locks’ history, operation, and significance while enjoying scenic views of the St. Marys River and surrounding landscapes. If you prefer, they also offer a lighthouse cruise.
Book an Upper Peninsula Vacation Rental
After you have decided which of these boat tours on the Upper Peninsula of Michigan is right for you, it’s time to book a vacation rental for your stay. Are you ready to embark on an adventure and create memories that will last a lifetime in this spectacular region of the Wolverine State? Select one of our UP vacation rentals, and have a comfortable home away from home while exploring the great outdoors.
From whitewater rafting and fishing to exploring UP State Parks, there is something for everyone. At the end of a long day of adventure, be sure to check out our favorite restaurants and breweries on the UP. And if you choose a vacation rental on the water, you can enjoy your own boat tour right outside your door.
Start your search for the ideal vacation rental on the UP today!
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What should I bring on an Upper Peninsula boat tour?
A: Most boat tours provide the essentials, but it’s always a good idea to pack a few comfort items. Bring a light jacket or sweatshirt—Lake Superior breezes can feel chilly even in summer. Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat help protect you from the sun, and closed‑toe shoes are recommended for boarding and moving around the boat. If you plan to take photos of the shoreline, lighthouses, or shipwrecks, make sure your phone or camera is fully charged and/or a battery pack.
Q: When is the best time of year to take a boat tour in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula?
A: Late spring through early fall (typically May–October) is ideal for boat tours. This is when the weather is most comfortable and tours operate on a full schedule. Summer offers the warmest temperatures and the calmest waters, while fall provides stunning views of changing leaves along the shoreline.
Q: Are Upper Peninsula boat tours family‑friendly?
A: Yes! Most boat tours are designed to be enjoyable for all ages. Families often enjoy tours that explore shipwrecks, lighthouses, and shoreline formations because they offer a fun mix of education and sightseeing.