TRAVERSE CITY CATAMARAN FIELD GUIDE
Noon Cruise on the Nauti-Cat: Two Hours of Sun, Sails and West Grand Traverse Bay
A relaxed, two-hour midday catamaran sail from Traverse City that mixes sunbathing on the nets, panoramic bay views, and light hands-on sailing with an onboard cash bar.
Noon Cruise on the Nauti-Cat: Two Hours of Sun, Sails and West Grand Traverse Bay.
Aboard the Nauti-Cat’s Noon Cruise you settle into a broad, midday sail across West Grand Traverse Bay — a catamaran experience built for sunbathing on the nets, taking in sweeping city and bay views, and the occasional nudge from the crew to help raise a sail or learn basic navigation. The boat, in service since 1998, pairs low-effort leisure with memorable photo opportunities and a full onboard cash bar for beer, wine, mixed drinks and soft drinks.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
Sunbathing on the nets
The Noon Cruise is timed for midday light and is popular for relaxing and sunbathing on the catamaran’s nets — an easy, sheltered platform for soaking up the sun while the boat slips across the bay.
Panoramic Traverse City vistas
From the open water of West Grand Traverse Bay you get sweeping views back toward Traverse City — prime territory for wide, postcard-style photographs and a different perspective on the shoreline.
Hands-on sailing and a full cash bar
An experienced crew can involve guests in raising sails and basic navigation, while a full onboard cash bar serves beer, wine, mixed drinks and soft drinks for a relaxed, social atmosphere.
What the day feels like
What the Noon Cruise Feels Like
The two-hour Noon Cruise unfolds as an unhurried midday sail aboard the Nauti-Cat. Guests drift out onto West Grand Traverse Bay, spread onto the nets to sunbathe, lift their lenses for sweeping shoreline views, and — if they choose — join the crew for light, hands-on sailing tasks. The on-deck rhythm is social and relaxed, punctuated by photo moments and the convenience of an onboard cash bar.
THE SUNDECK
Sunbathing on the nets
The Noon Cruise is timed for midday light and is popular for relaxing and sunbathing on the catamaran’s nets — an easy, sheltered platform for soaking up the sun while the boat slips across the bay.
THE VIEW
Panoramic Traverse City vistas
From the open water of West Grand Traverse Bay you get sweeping views back toward Traverse City — prime territory for wide, postcard-style photographs and a different perspective on the shoreline.
THE CREW
Hands-on sailing and a full cash bar
An experienced crew can involve guests in raising sails and basic navigation, while a full onboard cash bar serves beer, wine, mixed drinks and soft drinks for a relaxed, social atmosphere.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this cruise suits — and who should consider alternatives.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
The Noon Cruise is a midday outing lasting approximately two hours.
A full onboard cash bar serves beer, wine, mixed drinks and soft drinks during the cruise.
Personal drink items are not allowed aboard.
The cruise runs aboard the Nauti-Cat catamaran, which has been operating since 1998.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
How long is the Noon Cruise?
The cruise lasts approximately two hours.
What activities take place onboard?
Expect relaxed sunbathing on the nets, panoramic views of Traverse City from the bay, and optional hands-on sailing opportunities led by the crew.
Is there a bar on the boat?
Yes — a full onboard cash bar serves beer, wine, mixed drinks and soft drinks.
Can I bring my own drinks?
No — personal drink items are not allowed aboard.
Will crew involve guests in sailing?
Yes — the experienced crew can involve guests in raising sails and basic navigation if guests want a hands-on element.
Who operates the Noon Cruise and how long has the vessel been in service?
The cruise is operated by Nauti-Cat aboard its catamaran, which has been operating since 1998.