Sturgeon Bay Working Waterfront Past & Present

Discover Sturgeon Bay’s Working Waterfront – Past & Present

The Working Waterfront Past and Present tour is a captivating journey from the 1880s to today! Join us as we explore the winds of change that have shaped the Sturgeon Bay waterfront over the last century and a half.

From horse and buggy, steam engines, and sailboats to the mid-century boom in shipbuilding—commercial, military, and pleasure craft—our knowledgeable narrators weave rich stories of the past while showcasing the modern-day mix of commercial industry, the U.S. Coast Guard, city parks, museums, and a bustling waterfront filled with marinas, hotels, and restaurants.

Experience a remarkable blend of history and innovation. Our tour features large onboard monitors displaying historical photos of shipbuilding and other key moments in Sturgeon Bay’s working past. You’ll cruise by iconic sites such as Fincantieri/Bay Shipbuilding, the former Palmer Johnson yard, the historic Peterson Builders yard, and many other fascinating landmarks.

If you’re a boat nerd or a history buff, this tour is for you! And don’t worry—we make it fun for the whole family, helping learners of all ages earn their First Mate Status!