WINDSOR BOAT TOUR FIELD GUIDE
A Day Aboard the Macassa Bay: Windsor to Historic Amherstburg and Back
A round-trip cruise from Downtown Windsor that combines a commentated Detroit River passage, complimentary onboard refreshments, and a three-hour onshore visit to historic Amherstburg.
A Day Aboard the Macassa Bay: Windsor to Historic Amherstburg and Back.
Adventure brief
A Day Aboard the Macassa Bay: Windsor to Historic Amherstburg and Back
Step aboard the Macassa Bay in Downtown Windsor for a scenic, commentated cruise along the Detroit River that delivers you to Historic Amherstburg for a three‑hour onshore visit—ample time for lunch, shopping and a stop at Fort Malden—before a leisurely return sail to Windsor.
Located in Windsor, Ontario, the Macassa Bay cruise offers a compelling day on the water that balances sightseeing, history, and relaxation. Departing from Downtown Windsor, this three-hour cruise seamlessly combines scenic views of the Detroit River with engaging commentary about the area's rich maritime history. As you glide past the skyline, you’ll see the imposing silhouette of Detroit across the water, while the boat’s open decks provide ample space to soak in the scenery. During the voyage, enjoy complimentary coffee and pastries, setting a comfortable tone for your adventure.
A highlight of the cruise is the stop in Amherstburg, a charming town famous for its role in the War of 1812 and historic sites like Fort Malden. Visitors can disembark to stretch their legs and explore local eateries or visit the fort, which offers a glimpse into early 19th-century military life. The return sail is leisurely, allowing passengers to complete the full circle of this scenic journey, which beautifully showcases the area’s blend of natural beauty and historical significance.
This cruise stands out as a top choice for anyone looking to combine leisure with insight into the local heritage. Windsor Premier Cruises ensures a comfortable, well-guided experience that’s perfect for families, history buffs, or anyone seeking a memorable water-based outing in Ontario. Embodying the region’s maritime spirit, their thoughtfully curated trips make any day trip to Amherstburg truly special, leaving guests with stunning photos and stories to share.
Route Schematic
Itinerary route schematic
Key stops and timing along the Windsor–Amherstburg round trip.
Boarding at Dieppe Gardens (Windsor)
Boarding begins at 10:15 AM at Dieppe Gardens with departure at 10:45 AM from the Canada flag area.
Passage along the Detroit River
A roughly two‑hour sail features live commentary highlighting historic areas along the Detroit River.
Arrival at Kings Navy Yard Park (Amherstburg)
The vessel arrives at Kings Navy Yard Park in Amherstburg where passengers disembark for a three‑hour visit (arrival listed at 12:45).
Return boarding and cruise to Windsor
Boarding in Amherstburg is at 3:30 PM with departure around 3:45 PM for a roughly three‑hour return cruise to Dieppe Gardens, arriving around 6:45 PM.
The published schedule establishes specific boarding and departure times and a three‑hour onshore period in Amherstburg; consult the operator for exact departure points and any day‑of changes.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
A commentated passage along the Detroit River
The cruise features live commentary that points out historic areas along the Detroit River as the Macassa Bay makes the outward and return passages between Windsor and Amherstburg.
Three hours to explore Historic Amherstburg
After arriving in Amherstburg, passengers have a three‑hour onshore window to dine at local eateries, wander the downtown shopping district and visit Fort Malden.
Complimentary coffee and pastries at boarding
All passengers receive complimentary coffee and a pastry at the start of the cruise.
What the day feels like
What the day feels like
The day is paced as a relaxed river journey: morning boarding in Windsor with complimentary coffee and pastry, a roughly two‑hour sail to Amherstburg with interpretive commentary, a three‑hour onshore interlude to eat and explore, then an afternoon boarding in Amherstburg for a commentated three‑hour return sail to Windsor.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who gets the most from this cruise.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
Selected dates in the season include Thursday, July 3; Thursday, July 31; and Thursday, August 31. The total outing is listed at approximately 7.5 hours including both sail legs and the three‑hour onshore period.
Morning boarding is at Dieppe Gardens (10:15 AM; depart 10:45 AM from the Canada flag). Amherstburg boarding for the return is at the Kings Navy Yard (3:30 PM; depart roughly 3:45 PM), with an expected arrival back in Windsor around 6:45 PM.
Passengers have a three‑hour drop‑off period in Amherstburg to visit local eateries, the downtown shopping district and Fort Malden before reboarding for the return.
All passengers receive complimentary coffee and a pastry at the start of the cruise.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
How long is the entire outing?
The total duration is listed as approximately 7.5 hours, including both sail legs and the three‑hour onshore period in Amherstburg.
When and where do I board in Windsor?
Boarding in Windsor is at Dieppe Gardens; boarding begins at 10:15 AM and the vessel departs at 10:45 AM from the Canada flag area.
How much time will I have in Amherstburg?
Passengers are given a three‑hour onshore period in Amherstburg to eat, explore the downtown district and visit Fort Malden.
Are refreshments provided?
Yes. All passengers receive complimentary coffee and a pastry at the start of the cruise.
When is the return departure from Amherstburg?
Boarding in Amherstburg is scheduled for 3:30 PM with departure around 3:45 PM for the return cruise to Windsor.
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: 2026-08-28T00:21:53.440Z
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.