TRAVERSE CITY SAILING FIELD GUIDE
Jet-Stream Seats: Watch the Traverse City Airshow Aboard the Impulse
A four-hour, all-ages July outing aboard the Impulse to view jets performing directly over Grand Traverse Bay while you picnic; this guide lays out logistics, what to bring, and operator details.
Jet-Stream Seats: Watch the Traverse City Airshow Aboard the Impulse.
Experience the airshow from the water aboard the Impulse, a 2006 Catalina C-310 operated by Seaside Sailing Excursions & Charity Charters LLC. Jets perform directly over Grand Traverse Bay, and the vessel offers a comfortable, stable platform for an up-close spectacle away from the shore crowds. Bring a picnic and your favorite beverages and settle in for an uninterrupted four-hour outing under a captain with decades of nautical experience.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
A Front-Row Seat Over Grand Traverse Bay
During the show the jets perform directly over Grand Traverse Bay, and the Impulse positions you on the water for unobstructed viewing—away from shoreline crowds and noise.
Comfortable, Certified, and Seaworthy
The Impulse is a 2006 Catalina C-310—a modern, well-equipped 32'6" sailing vessel certified by the U.S. Coast Guard to carry up to six paying passengers plus crew; she features cockpit cushions, a protective dodger and sun awnings, a fully plumbed cabin and electric refrigeration.
A Veteran Captain and Easygoing Atmosphere
Your captain is a U.S. Coast Guard–certified Master with 50-plus years of nautical experience in Canada and the U.S.; he is known for being a gracious, friendly host and maintains safety and comfort aboard every excursion.
What the day feels like
What the Excursion Feels Like
You meet at the marina, step aboard the Impulse, and head out into Grand Traverse Bay for a four-hour excursion timed around the airshow. On board, the crew readies seating and shade while you settle with a picnic and beverages. As the jets run their routines above the bay, the boat holds position for clear viewing; after the show the Impulse returns to the marina.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this excursion suits—and who should plan differently.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
This is a special-event excursion held in July; the outing lasts approximately four hours and is appropriate for all ages.
Meet at 13501 S W Bay Shore Dr., at the north end of Elmwood Marina along the seawall; arrive about 15 minutes early. Free parking is typically available at the Elmwood Marina lot, with an overflow lot behind the Subway at 10977 E Brewery Creek Ln.
Bring a picnic lunch, beverages, a small tote cooler if desired, swimsuits and towels, layered clothing (it can be about 10°F cooler on the water), and shoes with rubber soles if you prefer not to go barefoot. The operator provides bottled water, unbreakable cups and dishes, and blankets if needed.
The Impulse is certified to carry up to six paying passengers plus crew; bookings are accepted last-minute but advance reservations are recommended to secure a date.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
Do I need to book in advance?
Last-minute reservations are welcome, but advance booking is recommended to reserve your date; booking online is easy and the operator can be called with questions.
What should I wear?
Guests often go barefoot aboard; if you wear shoes choose rubber-soled, secure-fitting footwear. Dress in layers because the air over the water can be about 10 degrees cooler than on land; bring a sweatshirt or jacket, swimsuits and towels as desired.
Are pets allowed on board?
Pets are not permitted aboard the vessel for the safety and comfort of all guests; the operator can provide a list of local boarding facilities.
Do you provide food and refreshments?
The operator provides bottled water, unbreakable cups and dishes; guests are invited to bring food and drinks—finger foods and simple picnic items work best and small tote coolers are recommended.
What happens if the weather turns bad?
The captain monitors weather and waits until about two hours before the excursion to make decisions; if weather poses a threat (fog, lightning, excessive winds) the excursion may be rescheduled or refunded. If underway and the captain returns to port due to threatening weather, you will be refunded for unused time or offered a discount on a future excursion.
What is the cancellation policy?
Full refunds are offered if you cancel 72 hours in advance; rescheduling is available based on operator availability.
Should I tip the captain?
Tipping is customary; a 20% gratuity is average if you are satisfied with the excursion.
How many people can be in our party?
The Impulse has a U.S. Coast Guard–certified maximum capacity of six paying passengers plus crew; for larger parties the operator can coordinate with affiliate vessels to sail side-by-side.
Is the sailboat safe?
Yes—the Impulse meets or exceeds U.S. Coast Guard regulations for construction, stability, safety equipment and electronics for passenger service, and is operated by a Master Captain certified by the U.S. Coast Guard with many years of experience.
Where is the boat located?
The boat meets guests at 13501 S W Bay Shore Dr., along the seawall at the north end of Elmwood Marina in Traverse City, Michigan.