TRAVERSE CITY SAILING FIELD GUIDE
Two Hours at Dusk: A Quiet Sunset Sail Off Traverse City Aboard the Impulse
A two-hour, intimate evening sail in Traverse City aboard the impeccably maintained Catalina Impulse — this guide explains what to expect, what to bring, and meeting logistics for a calm, romantic outing.
Two Hours at Dusk: A Quiet Sunset Sail Off Traverse City Aboard the Impulse.
Experience a serene two-hour sailing adventure aboard the beautifully maintained Impulse, where evening breezes, bottled water onboard, and the chance to bring your favorite drinks and snacks set the stage for a quietly romantic sunset on the water under the watchful hand of Captain Ger, a US Coast Guard–licensed Master with 50 years of experience.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
Impulse — a modern, seaworthy Catalina
The Impulse is a 2006 Catalina C-310 (32'6" LOA, 11'6" beam) that’s Coast Guard certified to carry up to six paying passengers plus crew. Built with a 4,000 lb, 6'5" deep keel and a total vessel weight of 14,000 lbs, she offers cockpit cushions, stern rail seating, a protective dodger and sun awnings, and a luxuriously equipped cabin with a private head and electric refrigeration.
Captain Ger — skilled, seasoned, convivial
Your excursion is helmed by Captain Ger, a US Coast Guard–licensed Master Captain with more than 50 years of sailing and boating experience in Canada and the United States; he is known as a gracious, jovial host and is frequently likened to Jimmy Buffett.
Sunset, snacks, and the evening breeze
This intimate two-hour cruise invites you to bring drinks and finger foods while fresh bottled water is provided onboard; the outing is designed for tranquility and romance as you watch the sky transform at dusk, with options to request longer or expanded excursions by arrangement.
What the day feels like
How the afternoon unfolds
Boarding leads to a slow, deliberate departure into open water where the evening breeze cools the air and conversation softens. Guests settle into cockpit cushions or the stern rail with their drinks and snacks as the Impulse glides; for roughly two hours the focus is the turning sky, the hush of water on hull, and the steady competence of an experienced captain at the helm.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this outing suits and who should consider alternatives.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
You’re encouraged to bring favorite drinks and finger foods; small tote coolers work well. The operator provides bottled water, unbreakable cups and dishes, and blankets if needed. Dress in layers—the air over the water can be significantly cooler than on land—and wear secure-soled shoes if you prefer not to go barefoot. Bring swimsuits and towels if you expect to swim; there is room below to stow gear.
Cockpit cushions, a protective dodger and sun awnings increase comfort; refrigeration is available below and the cabin has a private head. Keep provisions simple—beer, wine, sparkling water and light snacks are recommended.
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; online booking is available and phone assistance is offered if needed.
What should I wear?
Barefoot is common aboard, but if you wear shoes choose ones with rubber soles and secure fit. Dress in layers because temperatures over the water are often about 10 degrees cooler than on land; bring a sweatshirt or jacket, and consider swimsuits and towels. Blankets are available if needed.
Are pets allowed on board?
Pets are not permitted aboard the vessel for the safety and comfort of guests; make boarding arrangements in advance and consult the operator’s list of local facilities.
Do you provide food and refreshments?
The operator provides bottled water and unbreakable cups and dishes; guests are invited to bring food and drinks—simple finger food and snacks, beer, wine, sparkling water and box juice work well.
What about the weather?
The captain monitors weather and will make decisions about cancellations or rescheduling about two hours before your excursion; if conditions such as fog, lightning, or high winds are deemed unsafe the trip may be rescheduled or refunded.
What is your cancellation policy?
Full refunds are offered for cancellations made 72 hours or more in advance; rescheduling options are available based on operator availability.
Should I tip the Captain?
Tipping is customary and should reflect your satisfaction; a 20% gratuity is described as an average if you are happy with the excursion.
How many people can be in our party?
The Impulse is Coast Guard certified for a maximum of six paying passengers plus crew; for larger parties the operator often coordinates with affiliates to arrange side-by-side sails.
Is the sailboat safe?
Yes. The Impulse meets or exceeds US Coast Guard regulations for construction, stability, safety equipment and electronics for passenger service, and the captain is a USCG-certified Master with many years of experience.
Where is the boat?
The boat meets passengers at 13501 S W Bay Shore Dr., along the seawall at the north end of Elmwood Marina just to the left of the launch ramps; guests are invited to arrive about 15 minutes early to drop off passengers and gear and free parking is typically available at the Elmwood marina lot with an overflow lot behind Subway when needed.