Discover the Wonders of Door County at the Festival of Nature with Shoreline Boat Tours

Explore Door County’s Natural Wonders by Water: Shoreline Boat Tours at the Festival of Nature

Every spring, nature lovers, conservationists, and adventure seekers flock to Door County for the much-anticipated Door County Festival of Nature. This incredible event, organized by local conservation groups including The Ridges Sanctuary, offers an exciting lineup of guided hikes, expert-led discussions, and immersive experiences that celebrate the unique ecology and rich history of this remarkable region.

As proud partners of The Ridges Sanctuary and advocates for environmental education, Shoreline Boat Tours is thrilled to play a part in the festival. These Festival of Nature Field Trips provide participants with an opportunity to experience the stunning coastal landscapes, maritime history, and geological wonders of Door County from the best possible vantage point—the water!

Baileys Harbor Coastal Tour

Set sail aboard Hope, a retired U.S. Navy boat built to military safety standards and operated by skilled captains with extensive maritime knowledge. This tour will take you along the breathtaking Lake Michigan shoreline, offering unparalleled views of the rugged cliffs, pristine waters, and historic lighthouses that define the beauty of Baileys Harbor. 

Choose between a sunset tour, where you’ll witness the sky painted in breathtaking hues over Lake Michigan, or an afternoon excursion, perfect for soaking in the coastal scenery under the bright sun. While you cruise, our expert narrator and first mate will bring the landscape to life with fascinating stories from the past and present, including:

• Shipwrecks—Learn about the maritime mishaps and legendary wrecks that lie beneath these waters.
• Lighthouses—Get a close-up view of some of Door County’s most famous beacons, each with its own tale to tell.
• Geology and Geography—Uncover the secrets of the ancient rock formations and the dynamic forces that continue to shape the shoreline.
• Environmental Changes—Gain insight into the region’s ecological evolution and the conservation efforts protecting its future.

This engaging and educational tour is perfect for families with children ages 5 and up, as well as anyone looking to experience the majesty of Lake Michigan’s wild coastline from a fresh perspective.

Sturgeon Bay Maritime Overview

For those interested in the storied maritime heritage of Door County, our Sturgeon Bay Maritime Overview aboard Gratitude, a sturdy 40 x 12 foot Navy Liberty Launch, is an ideal choice. This trip offers an in-depth exploration of the region’s commercial and navigational history, combined with the natural beauty of the waters surrounding Sturgeon Bay.

Highlights of this tour include:

• Fincantieri Shipyard—Get an up-close look at one of the Great Lakes’ most important shipbuilding facilities, where both historic and modern vessels are crafted.
• Shipwrecks at Bullhead—Discover the underwater remnants of maritime history as we discuss how these wrecks came to rest beneath the waves.
• Door County Shipping Canal—Travel through this vital waterway that connects Green Bay with Lake Michigan, offering stunning views of both the Sturgeon Bay Coast Guard Station lighthouse and the iconic Red Shed lighthouse at the canal’s entrance.
• Fishery and Commerce—Gain a deeper understanding of the local fishing industry, past and present, as well as the vital role of Door County in Great Lakes trade and navigation.

Like the Baileys Harbor tour, this adventure is suitable for families with children ages 5 and older, making it a fantastic way to introduce young minds to the history and ecology of Door County.

Why Join Shoreline Boat Tours for the Festival of Nature?

The Door County Festival of Nature is a celebration of everything that makes this region so special, from its rare boreal forests to its pristine shorelines. By joining a Shoreline Boat Tour, you’ll gain access to expert storytelling, breathtaking views, and a newfound appreciation for the delicate balance between nature, history, and human influencein Door County.

As one of the only boat tour companies offering narrated scenic tours through both Baileys Harbor and Sturgeon Bay, we take great pride in providing unique, educational, and memorable experiences for visitors of all ages. Our partnerships with local conservation organizations like The Ridges Sanctuary ensure that our tours are not only entertaining but also deeply informative, shedding light on the important work being done to preserve Door County’s natural beauty for generations to come.

Reserve Your Spot Today!

Spots for these exclusive Festival of Nature field trips are limited, so we encourage you to reserve your tickets in advance. Whether you’re a lifelong Door County enthusiast or visiting for the first time, these tours offer a rare and unforgettable glimpse into the region’s most captivating coastal landscapes and maritime heritage.

To learn more about our Festival of Nature tours or to book your seat, visit Door County Festival of Nature. We can’t wait to welcome you aboard and share the beauty, history, and wonder of Door County with you!

Experience the Festival of Nature from the Water—Join Shoreline Boat Tours for an Unforgettable Journey!