Blast the Horizon: A 150HP Bennington Tritoon for Twelve on Saugatuck Waters

On the glittering bend of the Kalamazoo River in Saugatuck, Michigan, the Premium 23' Bennington Tritoon turns a lake day into a full-throttle celebration. This 23-foot tritoon pairs a stout 150HP outboard with a roomy deck layout and an upgraded sound system so the party’s soundtrack keeps pace with wakes and wind. Up to twelve people can spread out across plush seating, sunpads, and a raised helm, making it ideal for everything from laid-back cruising to tubing runs and weekend bashes.

The boat is built for stability and speed on the river and Lake Michigan bays: triple inflatable pontoons dampen chop while the wide beam keeps the platform steady whether you're anchoring at a sandbar or carving an open-water arc. Key features include a generous foredeck for sunning, integrated speakers, and onboard storage for coolers, towels, and water toys. Bring a floating swim mat or reserve one of the operator’s toys to turn a stop at a shallow sandbar into an impromptu swim party.

Saugatuck’s shoreline is famously dune-carved, with soft sugar sand, exposed beech and oak stands along riparian edges, and the occasional heron or bald eagle patrolling the river mouth. The Kalamazoo River delivers sheltered channels for exploring, quick access to Oval Beach’s broad shoreline, and quiet offshoots that invite tubing, swimming, and birdwatching. Local history shows Saugatuck’s roots in 19th-century shipping and lumber; today the town’s galleries and cafés make for a lively after-boat scene.

This trip is a standout because it merges comfortable, large-group boating with the region’s coastal variety: you can idle among river marshes at dawn, race a tubing tow at noon, and drift for sunset with the big dunes as your backdrop. For groups, the Tritoon’s capacity and stability mean photographers can frame action without losing footing, and parents can spread out while watching kids play from a shaded cockpit.

Practical notes: up to 12 passengers; confirm operator requirements for a captain or rental qualification. Pack a cooler, reef-safe sunscreen, and a dry bag for devices. Bookings are typically available by the hour or day; add-ons include floating mats, water toys, and bagged ice. Whether you want adrenaline, a relaxed family float, or a sunlit social on the water, this Bennington delivers a versatile platform to own a Saugatuck day.

Expect variable currents near the river mouth and adjust throttle when transitioning to open water; life jackets are available but bring child sizes if needed. Reserve early on summer weekends—Saugatuck fills fast—and ask about local no-wake zones around private docks. If you prefer a guided option, inquire whether a licensed captain can be added. After returning, stroll downtown for fresh fish, local wine, and sunset views from the pier to finish the day.