FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions at Bay City Boat Lines

What types of events does Bay City Boat Lines offer?

Bay City Boat Lines offers entertainment cruises, river tours, dinner cruises, free history tours, and special events like the VIP Fireworks Experience.

Do I need to make advance reservations?

Advance reservations are recommended for most events to guarantee availability and ease of check-in.

Walk-ups are welcome for afternoon river tours. 

Evening cruises and free history tours must be reserved in advance.

Can I book a private charter with Bay City Boat Lines?

Yes, private charters are available for corporate events, weddings, and large functions from June through early October for groups of 50-150. Rates for parties of 50 guests or fewer are also available.

How can I purchase a gift certificate?

Gift certificates can be purchased by reaching out to Bay City Boat Lines directly through their contact information or by visiting this webpage.

Gift Certificates

When is the operating season for Bay City Boat Lines?

The operating season for Bay City Boat Lines is from May 15 to October 15.

Where is the Princess Wenonah moored?

The Princess Wenonah is moored at Wenonah Park in Downtown Bay City during the summer season.

For directions search for Bay City Boat Lines – Wenonah Park Dock or see this webpage

Dock Location

Where can I park?

Parking on city streets or in public visitor lots

Bay City now has pay-by-plate parking in some public lots during daytime hours

How can I sign up for event notifications?

You can sign up for event notifications by following Bay City Boat Lines on Facebook and Instagram, or by signing up for their email list through their website.

Are events canceled for rain or weather conditions?

We travel rain or shine. Weather cancellation is rare and limited to situations with extreme or dangerous conditions. The boat offers sheltered areas, and most of the boat can be enclosed in case of bad weather. 

We are not climate-controlled and recommend guests bring layers for comfort.

In case of cancellation, guests are notified by email and/or phone call. 

Are there any events suitable for group or date nights?

Yes, Bay City Boat Lines offers Carefree Cruisin’ Dinner Cruises and Rock the Boat Concert Cruises which are perfect for group outings, date nights, or casual evenings.

Are there age restrictions for boat cruises?

Yes, our Carefree Cruisin’ Dinner Cruises and Rock the Boat Concert are planned for ages 21 and up. Under 21 may attend with parent or guardian and must be identified as under 21. 

All ages are welcome on History Tours, Saginaw River Tours and private parties at the host’s discretion.

Children must be accompanied by an adult at all times. We recommend no more than three children per adult. 

Can I bring a group on free tours?

Free history tours are only available to individual households. We can not accommodate social groups. A limited number of tickets may be applied for by registered non-profit organizations whose main purpose is to provide necessary services other than social interaction.

Groups are welcome at all other events. River tours are especially well suited to large social groups looking for a tour. 

What is the capacity for private events on the Princess Wenonah?

The Princess Wenonah can accommodate groups of 50-150 guests for private charters.

Are there any activities focused on local history or wildlife?

Yes, Bay City Boat Lines offers Saginaw River Guided Tours and a limited-time series of Free Weekday Morning History Tours focused on local history and wildlife.

Is Princess Wenonah Handicapped-Accessible?

Princess Wenonah is exempt from ADA, but does offer limited access on the boarding level only.

Please note: restrooms are on the upper level and can only be reached via a stairwell with a handrail. Restrooms are small and not handicapped-accessible.

We have guests in wheelchairs join us on a regular basis as long as they can travel without access to restrooms while aboard.

Guests can contact us to discuss their specific needs before traveling. 

Are pets allowed onboard the Princess Wenonah?

Only service animals, not pets,  are allowed. Service animals are trained to perform a task for a human companion. Emotional support animals are not service animals.

Can I bring lunch or snacks aboard?

Sorry, no outside food or beverages is allowed. We do have a full range of beverages available. Public tours also have light snack concessions or a meal. Private parties may order catering from our in-house service.

We are celebrating a birthday. Can we bring a cake and decorations?

We do not allow birthday cakes or cupcakes, balloons, decorations, etc. on public events. If you have booked a private event, please contact us to discuss what items may come aboard.

How can I contact Bay City Boat Lines for more information?

Bay City Boat Lines can be contacted at 1-989-891-2628 ext 0 for general questions or ext 701 for private party information, or fill out the form below to send an email.