If you live in Michigan, chances are good that you’ve seen some beautiful lighthouses in your day. But have you ever had the opportunity to experience these gorgeous structures from the comfort of a boat while gaining fascinating insight into each spot’s history and significance? Well, you’re in luck: this day trip in the Great Lakes State will show you some of our most beautiful water-bound locations up-close and personal.
Shepler’s Mackinac Island Ferry and Lighthouse Cruises are docked at 556 E. Central Avenue in Mackinaw City — the last stop before you head to the Upper Peninsula.
While Shepler’s is well-known for its ferry services to Mackinac Island, many people are unaware that the company also offers a variety of fascinating and informative cruises that draw in hundreds of visitors each year.
If you’re seeking the perfect day trip, hop aboard one of the company’s boats and prepare to see the area’s lighthouses like you’ve never seen them before.
When you book your tickets, decide whether you’d like to experience the eastbound or westbound cruise. While both take visitors past stunning sights, they differ slightly and each offers its own unique points of interest.
On the eastbound route, your friendly tour guide will take you past the famous Round Island Light, Cheboygan Crib Light, Poe Reef Light, and more. Don’t forget your camera as you cruise alongside these Michigan beauties.
If you select the westbound route, prepare to check out The White Shoal Light, St. Helena Island Light, and the beautiful Gray's Reef Light, which was originally constructed in 1891. Talk about a historical tour!
Of course, both cruises will take you directly under a Michigan classic: The Mackinac Bridge. Each trip lasts approximately three hours round-trip, so sit back, relax, and enjoy the sights and sounds of our gorgeous freshwater monuments.
Shepler’s even offers specialty cruises throughout the year that will absolutely charm you. Get patriotic on a 4th of July Cruise, enjoy some one-of-a-kind stargazing on a Night Sky Cruise, or simply select an extended version of a basic eastbound or westbound lighthouse tour.
Cruises don’t begin again until June, but it’s never too early to start planning — after all, this is one day trip experience that you won’t want to risk missing out on. No matter how many times you climb aboard, you’ll always discover something new and beautiful on a Shepler’s Lighthouse Cruise.
Adult tickets for a Shepler’s Cruise begin at approximately $49.50, while tickets for children (ages 5-12) begin at $27.50. For more information about the cruise routes, schedules, and to book tickets, visit the company’s website here. Happy cruising!
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