TRAVERSE CITY SAILING FIELD GUIDE
Bespoke Sailing Aboard the Impulse: Private Charters on Traverse City Waterways
Private, customizable charters on the 2006 Catalina C-310 Impulse that let you design proposals, birthdays, or quiet hours on the water.
Bespoke Sailing Aboard the Impulse: Private Charters on Traverse City Waterways.
Set off from the Elmwood Marina and slip into the cool sweep of Traverse City’s waters aboard the Impulse, a meticulously maintained Catalina C-310. These custom-designed excursions are built around your occasion—proposal, anniversary, small wedding or simply a private day at sea—while a seasoned Master Captain handles navigation and safety so you can focus on the moment.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
A stable, comfortable Catalina built for celebrations
Impulse is a 2006 Catalina C-310 (32'6" length, 11'6" beam) with a deep 6'5" keel and a full complement of cabin comforts—private head, electric refrigeration and cockpit seating—offering a safe, stable platform for intimate gatherings of up to six paying passengers.
Tailor every detail to your event
These charters are explicitly offered for proposals, anniversaries, birthdays and other milestone events; the operator will help arrange photographers, entertainment or an officiant so the excursion becomes a crafted moment rather than a generic ride.
Experience and easygoing stewardship
Captain Ger is a US Coast Guard Master Captain with more than 50 years of nautical experience in Canada and the U.S.; he is described as a gracious, jovial host who prioritizes safety while creating a relaxed onboard atmosphere.
What the day feels like
What the charter feels like
Board at the north end of Elmwood Marina and, after a brief orientation, the Impulse moves off into the cool, open water where the Captain trims sails and sets a relaxed rhythm for the day. Whether you request a two‑hour stretch or a full day afloat, the trip is flexible—entertainment and refreshments can be added, and the crew will stow gear below in a roomy cabin while you circulate between cockpit cushions and stern‑rail seating.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who gets the most from a custom sailing charter
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
Charters are available in durations from two up to eight hours with tiered pricing for each duration (see operator rates for exact pricing by hour).
Dress in layers—the air over the water is often cooler than on land. Bare feet are common but if you prefer shoes bring rubber‑soled footwear that fits securely. Bring swimsuits, towels and small tote coolers for food and drinks; blankets are available onboard and there is room below to stow gear.
The operator provides bottled water, unbreakable cups and dishes; guests are invited to bring additional food and beverages (finger food recommended).
Meet the boat at 13501 S W Bay Shore Dr., along the Elmwood Marina seawall; arrive about 15 minutes early. Complimentary parking is usually available at the drop‑off location or overflow lots as noted by the operator.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
Do I need to book in advance?
Last‑minute reservations are sometimes accepted, but advance booking is recommended to reserve the date; online booking is available and phone assistance is offered for questions.
What should I wear?
Bare feet are common aboard, but if you wear shoes choose rubber‑soled, secure footwear. The air can be about 10 degrees cooler over the water—bring layers, a sweatshirt or jacket, swimsuits and towels; blankets are available onboard.
Are pets allowed on board?
Pets are not permitted aboard for the safety and comfort of all guests; the operator can provide a list of local boarding facilities.
Do you provide food and refreshments?
Bottled water is provided; guests may bring food and drinks in small coolers. The crew supplies unbreakable cups and dishes—keep catering simple with finger foods, beer, wine or sparkling water.
What about the weather and cancellations?
The Captain monitors weather and will make decisions about cancellations roughly two hours before an excursion; trips may be rescheduled or refunded if conditions (fog, lightning, high winds) are unsafe. If underway and forced to return early, you will receive a refund for unused time or a discount on a future excursion.
What is your cancellation policy?
Full refunds are provided for cancellations made at least 72 hours before the scheduled excursion; rescheduling is available subject to operator availability.
How many people can be in our party and is the vessel safe?
The Impulse is Coast Guard certified to carry up to six paying passengers plus crew and meets or exceeds USCG regulations for vessels in passenger service. The Captain is a USCG‑certified Master with extensive experience.