TRAVERSE CITY SAILING FIELD GUIDE
Power Island: Sailing to Traverse City’s ‘Bahamas North’ Aboard the Catalina Impulse
A five-hour, family-friendly sailing from the southwest end of West Grand Traverse Bay to Power Island (aka “Bahamas North”), useful for planning a day of swimming, picnicking and relaxed island circumnavigation aboard a Coast Guard–certified vessel.
Power Island: Sailing to Traverse City’s ‘Bahamas North’ Aboard the Catalina Impulse.
In these protected waters, civilization seems miles away. Set sail from the southwest end of West Grand Traverse Bay toward Power Island—locally dubbed “Bahamas North”—where aqua-blue water runs so clear you can see golden sand 30 feet below. The excursion is deliberately unhurried: anchor for swims and picnics, or simply glide around the island and take in the passing shoreline. It’s family-friendly and structured to let you reclaim a little childlike wonder on the water.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
‘Bahamas North’: Clear water and shallow golden sand
Power Island’s nearshore shallows are famed locally for water so clear it reveals golden sand deep below. Guests can set anchor in these aqua-blue pockets to swim, snorkel or picnic in remarkably transparent water.
Impulse: a modern, seaworthy Catalina
The excursion is run aboard Impulse, a well-equipped 2006 Catalina C-310 (32'6" length, 11'6" beam). Coast Guard certified to carry up to six paying passengers plus crew, she offers cockpit cushions, stern rail seating, sun awnings and a fully plumbed cabin with refrigeration and a private head.
Captain Ger: experienced, convivial, safe
Your Captain is US Coast Guard–certified as a Master Captain with over 50 years of nautical experience in Canada and the United States. He’s known as a gracious, jovial host—adept at running safe, comfortable excursions for families.
What the day feels like
What the day feels like
The outing unfolds at a leisurely pace: depart the southwest end of West Grand Traverse Bay, settle into life aboard the Catalina Impulse and choose your tempo—anchor in crystalline shallows for a swim and picnic, or sail around Power Island and enjoy the changing views as the shoreline recedes. The day is designed to be relaxed, family-friendly, and customizable to how you want to spend your hours on the water.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this excursion suits—and who should plan differently.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
Bring your preferred drinks and snacks; small tote coolers work well. Swim suits and your own towels are recommended. Fresh bottled water will be provided on board.
The operator provides bottled water and unbreakable cups and dishes. There is refrigeration in the galley for keeping items cool.
Aboard tends to be cooler than on land—dress in layers. Many guests go barefoot; if you prefer shoes, bring rubber-soled, secure-fitting footwear. Blankets are available if needed.
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 preferred date.
What should I wear aboard?
Many guests go barefoot aboard; if you wear shoes choose rubber-soled, secure-fitting footwear. Dress in layers—the air over the water can be about 10 degrees cooler than on land. Bring swimsuits and towels.
Are pets allowed on board?
No. For the safety and comfort of all guests and crew, pets are not permitted aboard. The operator can provide a list of local boarding facilities.
Do you provide food and refreshments?
Bottled water is provided. Guests are invited to bring their own food and drinks—finger foods, snacks, beer, wine, sparkling water and boxed juice are all suggested. The boat supplies unbreakable cups and dishes.
What about the weather and safety decisions?
The Captain monitors weather and typically makes final weather decisions about two hours before an excursion. If conditions such as fog, lightning or excessive winds are unsafe, the trip may be rescheduled or refunded; if underway, you may be refunded for unused time or offered a discount on a future excursion.
What is your cancellation policy?
Full refunds are offered for cancellations made 72 hours in advance. Rescheduling is also possible based on availability.
Should I tip the Captain?
Tipping is customary and based on satisfaction; a 20% gratuity is average for a trip you enjoy.
How many people can be in our party?
Impulse is certified to carry a maximum of six paying passengers plus crew in accordance with US Coast Guard regulations. For larger parties, the operator works with affiliates to arrange side-by-side sailings.
Is the sailboat safe?
Yes. Impulse meets or exceeds US Coast Guard regulations for construction, stability, safety equipment and electronics for passenger service, and the Captain is a USCG Master with decades of experience.
Where is the boat and where do we meet?
Meet the boat at 13501 S W Bay Shore Dr., at the seawall at the north end of Elmwood Marina (just left of the launch ramps). Guests are invited to arrive about 15 minutes early to drop off passengers and gear; free parking is provided at the Elmwood Marina lot with an overflow lot behind Subway when busy.