Fourth of July on the Straits: Fireworks Aboard the Kristen D

CHEBOYGAN BOAT TOUR FIELD GUIDE

Fourth of July on the Straits: Fireworks Aboard the Kristen D

A 3–4 hour patriotic cruise from Cheboygan aboard the Kristen D that sails under the Mackinac Bridge and positions guests to watch fireworks from multiple shoreline locations.

Fourth of July on the Straits: Fireworks Aboard the Kristen D.

Duration
3-4 hours
Location
Cheboygan
Operator
Plaunt Transportation Inc.
Category
Boat Tour
Robert Eric Crews
Founder & Editor, The Adventure Collective
Published Verified

Celebrate the 4th of July aboard the Kristen D as it cruises the Straits of Mackinac, running from Cheboygan to Bois Blanc Island before steaming toward and beneath the Mackinac Bridge; the outing ends with a panorama of fireworks visible from Mackinac Island, Mackinaw City, St. Ignace, and Cheboygan.

Highlights

Outing Highlights

THE ROUTE

Under the Mackinac Bridge

The Kristen D travels toward and passes underneath the iconic Mackinac Bridge, offering guests up-close photographic vantage points from the water before turning back toward Bois Blanc Island.

THE CELEBRATION

A Multi-Shore Fireworks Panorama

As night falls the cruise positions guests to see fireworks displays from multiple locations—Mackinac Island, Mackinaw City, St. Ignace, and Cheboygan—creating a layered, waterfront spectacle.

THE VESSEL

An Evening on the Kristen D

The experience is centered on the Kristen D, operated by Plaunt Transportation Inc., and designed as a festive holiday voyage through the Straits of Mackinac.

What the day feels like

What the Cruise Feels Like

The 3–4 hour cruise departs in the evening and covers a coastal loop: departing from Cheboygan (or Bois Blanc Island for island guests), sailing past Bois Blanc Island, running toward and beneath the Mackinac Bridge for photographs, and then returning to positions where multiple shoreline fireworks displays can be viewed before the boat returns to both landing points.

Suitability

Who it's for

Who this cruise suits — and who should plan elsewhere.

1
Holiday CelebrantsIdeal for people who want a festive, waterfront way to celebrate Independence Day with multiple fireworks vistas from the water.
2
PhotographersWell suited to photographers seeking unique compositions of the Mackinac Bridge and night fireworks from maritime vantage points.
3
Island Arrivals & DeparturesConvenient for guests launching from Bois Blanc Island thanks to a scheduled island boarding and return to the Township Dock.
4
Pet OwnersNot a fit for travelers who need to bring pets—animals are not permitted on the cruise.

Practical planner

Details to review before reserving

Timing & Duration

The cruise is a 3–4 hour evening outing on July 4th; exact boarding and sailing times depend on your embarkation point.

What to Bring

Bring warm clothes for the return trip as temperatures on the Straits can cool after sunset.

Logistics & Meeting Points

If joining from Cheboygan, depart from 412 Water St. and park in the Cheboygan City parking lot; if joining from Bois Blanc Island, board at the Township Dock and vehicles may be left in the Township parking lot. The vessel returns to both locations to drop off guests.

Reservations & Conditions

The trip is weather permitting and requires at least 40 reserved spots prior to 6/30/26 for it to take place.

Booking Notice

Review cancellation policies before reserving.

Frequently asked questions

Planning Your Outing

How long is the cruise?

The 2025 4th of July Fireworks Cruise runs approximately 3–4 hours.

Where does the boat depart from in Cheboygan?

If joining from Cheboygan the boat departs promptly at 6:00 pm from 412 Water St.; park in the Cheboygan City parking lot.

What if I'm joining from Bois Blanc Island?

If joining from Bois Blanc Island the vessel departs promptly at 8:00 pm from the Township Dock; vehicles may be left in the Township parking lot.

Will the cruise still run in bad weather?

The trip operates weather permitting.

Are pets allowed on the cruise?

No—pets are not allowed on the trip.

How many reservations are required for the cruise to operate?

The operator requires at least 40 reserved spots prior to 6/30/26 for the trip to take place.