STURGEON BAY BOAT TOUR FIELD GUIDE
Cutting the Wake in a Classic: 16' Tahoe Runabout on Sturgeon Bay
Rent a 16' Tahoe Runabout with a 60 hp Mercury outboard from Door County Boat Rentals to cruise Sturgeon Bay’s working waterfront, slip beneath three bridges, and stop for swims or a meal at Waterfront Mary's Bar and Grill.
Cutting the Wake in a Classic: 16' Tahoe Runabout on Sturgeon Bay.
Adventure brief
Cutting the Wake in a Classic: 16' Tahoe Runabout on Sturgeon Bay
Experience the simple, open-air pleasure of a classic Tahoe Runabout as you pilot a 16' craft powered by a 60 hp Mercury motor through Sturgeon Bay. The route threads beneath three bridges, skirts a working harbor, and offers easy anchor-and-swim stops and a laid-back landing at Waterfront Mary's Bar and Grill—ideal for families who want fishing, floating, or a casual day on the water.
Discover the excitement of exploring Sturgeon Bay aboard the classic 16' Tahoe Runabout powered by a 60hp Mercury motor. This private boating adventure with Door County Boat Rentals offers an ideal way to experience Wisconsin’s scenic waterways with freedom and ease. Whether you’re aiming to fish, float leisurely, or soak up the sun with family and friends, the Tahoe Runabout provides both comfort and performance. Glide under charming bridges, pass by rocky shorelines, and stop at local hotspots for refreshments or sightseeing. The compact size of the boat makes it perfect for navigating narrow channels while offering a smooth, responsive ride. With minimal boating experience required, this trip is accessible to both beginners and seasoned water explorers. Paddleboards, fishing rods, and coolers are optional extras to enhance your day on the water. Expect a laid-back but memorable outing where the fresh lake breeze, sparkling blue waters, and natural beauty combine for an unforgettable private adventure. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply seeking a unique waterborne escape, the 16' Tahoe Runabout delivers an authentic Wisconsin boating experience.
Route Schematic
Route & Stops
Typical outings cruise Sturgeon Bay, moving beneath bridges, past working docks, and stopping at clear spots for swimming or a bite ashore.
Under the Three Bridges
Navigate the waterway that passes beneath three bridges—a defining stretch of the bay.
Working Waterfront Passage
Cruise past Sturgeon Bay’s active harbor operations and boat traffic, a reminder this is a working maritime corridor.
Waterfront Mary's Bar and Grill
Pull alongside or shore up for food and a break at Waterfront Mary's—a recommended stop on the route.
Potawatomi State Park Outskirts
Drive around the park’s outskirts to find anchor spots for fishing, floating, or jumping in the water.
Operators restrict towing or pulling behind rentals and limit each boat to small groups; always follow the operator’s orientation and posted safety guidance.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
Classic Tahoe Runabout, modern power
The fleet are open‑bow 16' Tahoe Runabouts equipped with a 60 hp four‑stroke Mercury outboard, swim ladder and anchor—simple, nimble boats that handle cruising, swimming stops, and small‑group outings.
Three bridges and a working waterfront
The cruise routes take you beneath three bridges and past Sturgeon Bay’s active waterfront—an immediate reminder that this is both scenic shoreline and a working harbor.
Anchors up for swims and a waterside meal
Plan to drop anchor to swim, float, or fish, then mosey into Waterfront Mary's Bar and Grill for a break—this mix of on‑water downtime and a waterside stop defines the rental experience.
What the day feels like
What the day feels like
A rental day on a Tahoe Runabout is unpretentious and immediate: throttle up the 60 hp outboard, slip out of the harbor, pass under three bridges, and choose your own balance of cruising, casting, or anchoring for a swim. The boats are compact and straightforward, made for groups of up to four who want a flexible, hands‑on day on Sturgeon Bay.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this rental suits — and who should look elsewhere.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
Rentals run from short 2‑hour outings up to multi‑week bookings; each boat accommodates up to 4 people.
Swimsuits, coolers and snacks, sunscreen, sandals and hats are recommended for a comfortable day on the water.
Meet at 3662 N. Duluth Ave., Sturgeon Bay, WI 54235; arrive early for paperwork and orientation as requested by the operator.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
When should I arrive before my reservation?
Please arrive 20 minutes before your reservation start time for paperwork and orientation.
Are life jackets required for children?
Children under 12 are required to always wear PFDs.
Can I bring my dog?
Pontoons, speedboats, fishing boats, and tandem kayaks are dog‑friendly; an additional cleaning fee may apply for dogs.
Can I bring a grill or cook on the boat?
Grills are not allowed on rentals.
Are coolers and snacks allowed?
Coolers and snacks are welcome.
Can I tow a tube or skier behind the rental?
Towing or pulling behind any rental is not permitted, but the operator offers tubing and skiing charters with licensed captains.
How this guide was prepared
This field guide is synthesized using verified supplier specifications, route descriptions, and destination data. Some booking links may generate affiliate revenue for ADV Guides.
- Verified: 2026-08-10T12:52:55.863Z
Some booking links may generate revenue for ADV Guides or The Adventure Collective.
Availability, pricing, schedules and operating details can change.
Trip details and contextual sources were reviewed by ADV Guides Editorial.