Star of Saugatuck Cruises
Scenic paddlewheel boat cruises on the Kalamazoo River and Lake Michigan, offering stunning views and a relaxing experience.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Golden hour magic
Star of Saugatuck Cruises
Best Time
Golden hour magic
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Scenic paddlewheel boat cruises on the Kalamazoo River and Lake Michigan, offering stunning views and a relaxing experience.
"A relaxing and comfortable cruise with beautiful scenery and a great crew!"
🎯 Book Tickets Online
Secure your spot, especially for popular sunset cruises. Avoid disappointment!
💰 Cash for Snacks/Drinks
Refreshments are available, but it's cash-only on board.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Sunset Cruise
Lake Michigan
Witness breathtaking sunsets over Lake Michigan from the water. A truly magical experience.
Kalamazoo River Scenic Tour
Kalamazoo River
Glide along the picturesque Kalamazoo River, admiring charming homes and boats.
Lake Michigan Coastal Views
Lake Michigan Coastline
Experience the beauty of the Lake Michigan coastline and Saugatuck's charming waterfront.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Ahead for Peak Times
Weather Watch is Key
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Book Tickets Online
Secure your spot, especially for popular sunset cruises. Avoid disappointment!
💰 Cash for Snacks/Drinks
Refreshments are available, but it's cash-only on board.
🧥 Dress in Layers
Lake Michigan breezes can be cool, even on warm days.
👂 Listen to the Captain
Enjoy informative and humorous narratives about the area.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Book Tickets Online
Secure your spot, especially for popular sunset cruises. Avoid disappointment!
💰 Cash for Snacks/Drinks
Refreshments are available, but it's cash-only on board.
🧥 Dress in Layers
Lake Michigan breezes can be cool, even on warm days.
👂 Listen to the Captain
Enjoy informative and humorous narratives about the area.
📸 Capture the Views
Bring your camera for stunning photo opportunities.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Star of Saugatuck for its friendly crew, well-maintained boat, and beautiful scenic routes along the Kalamazoo River and Lake Michigan. The sunset cruise is a particular highlight, offering stunning views. Some guests note that refreshments are cash-only and that hearing the captain on the upper deck can be challenging.
"I'm a big fan of the Star of Saugatuck!
My wife & I have been on this cruise a few times and always enjoy everything about it! The crew is always on point, friendly, helpful and attentive. The boat is large, well stocked, clean, safe & well maintained.
The views along the way are beautiful, Saugatuck is a beautiful Michigan town, the boats and houses were fun to check out and we went out to Lake Michigan along the coast a bit. the water was like glass and the scenery was fantastic.
We will be back again soon. If you've never tried the Star of Saugatuck, I would definitely recommend you do."
Rob VanSuilichem
"Great tour. Very informative. Relaxing way to tour the lake. On time, 90 mins total. Few snacks to purchase, lots of drink options."
Dave Vesely
"Absolutely a must! Very nice leisurely ride, beautiful scenery. The Captain was great with his narratives on the area and a great sense of humor! Ride is 90 minutes long. Boat is roomy, has a 1st deck bathroom, they also offer snacks and beverages, including adult beverages. Besides several cruises during the day, the also offer a sunset cruise."
Carmen Vardich
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Star of Saugatuck Cruises depart from Water Street in Saugatuck, MI. Parking can be limited in peak season, so consider arriving early or exploring nearby public parking options.
Yes, there is parking available, but it can fill up quickly, especially during busy times. Arriving early is advised.
If you are staying in downtown Saugatuck, the cruise departure point is easily walkable.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Tickets can typically be purchased online in advance or at the ticket booth on Water Street. Booking ahead is recommended, especially for popular times.
Pricing can vary, but expect tickets to be in the range of $25-$40 per person for standard cruises. Sunset cruises might be slightly more. Check their official website for current pricing.
Most cruises last between 70 to 90 minutes, offering a good amount of time to enjoy the scenery.
Discounts are not always advertised, but it's worth checking their website or local tourism sites for any special offers, especially for groups or off-season travel.
Yes, you can often buy tickets on the day of the cruise at the ticket booth, but it's best to book in advance to guarantee your spot, particularly for sunset tours.
🎫 compass Onsite Experience
The sunset cruise is highly recommended for its beautiful views. However, the river cruises offer a relaxing way to see the local scenery.
You'll see charming waterfront homes, boats, the Kalamazoo River, and potentially Lake Michigan's coastline, weather permitting.
The boat has an upper and lower deck. The lower deck is enclosed and more accessible. The upper deck is open-air. It's advisable to inquire about specific accessibility needs when booking.
There are both enclosed lower decks and open-air upper decks. The upper deck offers great views but can be exposed to the elements.
The captain's narration is usually audible on the lower deck. On the upper deck, especially in the stern, it might be difficult to hear.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, snacks and a variety of beverages, including alcoholic drinks, are available for purchase on board. Remember to bring cash!
Typically, outside food and beverages are not permitted. It's best to check the cruise line's specific policy.
📸 📸 Photography
The open-air upper deck offers unobstructed views. The stern of the boat provides a unique perspective of the paddlewheel and wake.
Absolutely! The sunset cruise offers incredible opportunities for capturing stunning sunset shots over Lake Michigan.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider booking a daytime cruise to avoid potential fatigue for younger kids. The 70-90 minute duration is generally manageable for most children. The informative commentary can also be engaging for older kids interested in learning about the area.
❤️ Couples & Romantic Getaways
The breathtaking views of the sunset over Lake Michigan create a magical atmosphere. For a more intimate experience, consider sitting on the lower deck or securing a spot on the upper deck early. The relaxing pace of the cruise allows for conversation and connection.
🚶♀️ Elderly Visitors & Those with Mobility Concerns
It's advisable to inquire about specific accessibility needs when booking your tickets. The crew is known for being helpful and attentive, and they can assist with boarding and seating arrangements to ensure a pleasant experience.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Star of Saugatuck Experience
Cruises typically last between 70 to 90 minutes. The journey often includes a stretch along the Kalamazoo River, showcasing the picturesque waterfront homes and lush scenery, before venturing out onto Lake Michigan, weather permitting.
While the views are a major draw, the onboard amenities add to the comfort. Snacks and a variety of drinks, including adult beverages, are available for purchase, though it's important to note that these are cash-only.
Navigating Saugatuck's Waterways
Venturing onto Lake Michigan is a highlight for many, offering expansive views of the coastline and the vastness of the Great Lake.
For those interested in the history and local lore, the captains often provide engaging commentary. Listening to the captain's narratives can significantly enrich the experience, offering insights into the Saugatuck area's past and present.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit