BAY CITY GUIDED TOUR FIELD GUIDE
Two Hours Aboard the Princess Wenonah — Bay City’s Saginaw River Guided Tour (Adult $28 · Child $15)
A guided, two-hour river cruise from historic downtown Bay City with live commentary, wildlife viewing and planned passages past the USS Edson and the Saginaw River Rear Range Lighthouse.
Two Hours Aboard the Princess Wenonah — Bay City’s Saginaw River Guided Tour (Adult $28 · Child $15).
Leave the riverfront at historic Downtown Bay City for a paced, two-hour cruise aboard the Princess Wenonah. A live guide points out local sights and wildlife as the boat works downriver — weather and traffic permitting — toward the USS Edson and the Saginaw River Rear Range Lighthouse, getting close to Saginaw Bay before returning upriver. The trip is family-oriented, includes seating for every guest and on-board concessions.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
Downriver to the Bay — Lighthouse & Warship Views
Weather and river traffic permitting, the cruise travels downriver past the USS Edson and to the Saginaw River Rear Range Lighthouse, bringing passengers close to Saginaw Bay before returning upriver.
Live Commentary and Local Context
A live tour guide narrates points of interest and wildlife viewing along the river, highlighting things to see and do in Bay City throughout the two-hour cruise.
Relaxed Cruise with Refreshments
Seating is provided for all guests and a concession stand offers snacks, water, soft drinks, beer and wine; both cash and cards are accepted at the snack bar.
What the day feels like
What the Two-Hour Cruise Feels Like
Board from the riverfront near Wenonah Park and settle in for a measured two-hour loop. The Princess Wenonah carries guests past industrial and natural stretches of the Saginaw River while a guide points out landmarks and wildlife. If conditions allow, the vessel continues seaward past the USS Edson toward the Saginaw River Rear Range Lighthouse and along the edge of Saginaw Bay before a return upriver; on occasion the operator may route the trip upriver instead.
THE ROUTE
Downriver to the Bay — Lighthouse & Warship Views
Weather and river traffic permitting, the cruise travels downriver past the USS Edson and to the Saginaw River Rear Range Lighthouse, bringing passengers close to Saginaw Bay before returning upriver.
THE GUIDE
Live Commentary and Local Context
A live tour guide narrates points of interest and wildlife viewing along the river, highlighting things to see and do in Bay City throughout the two-hour cruise.
ONBOARD AMENITIES
Relaxed Cruise with Refreshments
Seating is provided for all guests and a concession stand offers snacks, water, soft drinks, beer and wine; both cash and cards are accepted at the snack bar.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this trip suits — and who should plan accordingly.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
Bring a print or digital copy of your confirmation/tickets and a photo ID if requested. Dress in layers or bring a jacket for cooler conditions on deck.
A concession stand sells snacks, water, soft drinks, beer and wine; the snack bar accepts cash and cards.
All passengers must have a ticket regardless of age; infants two and under ride free but require at least one adult ticket to be selected.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
Where do we board the cruise?
Boarding is along the riverfront near Wenonah Park and the Doubletree Hotel in historic Downtown Bay City; downtown parking maps are provided by the operator.
How long is the cruise?
The tour is two hours long.
Will we see the USS Edson and the lighthouse?
Weather and river traffic permitting, the planned route travels past the USS Edson and to the Saginaw River Rear Range Lighthouse and close to Saginaw Bay; occasionally the trip may be routed upriver instead.
Are restrooms available?
Yes—restrooms are located on the upper deck, but there is no handicap access to them.
Can I bring my own food or drinks?
Outside food, beverage and coolers are not permitted; a concession stand aboard sells snacks and beverages.
What are the age and ticketing rules?
Adult fares apply to ages 11 and up, children ages 3–10 have a child fare, infants two and under ride free (one adult ticket must be selected first), and a senior fare is available for ages 60+. All passengers must have a ticket regardless of age.
What happens if it rains?
Events run rain or shine; severe weather cancellations are extremely rare.