Pre-Conference Tour: Star of Saugatuck (optional)
Set Sail for Adventure in Pure Michigan!

Sunday, October 19, 2025

https://saugatuckboatcruises.com/

Requirements: Must be a full conference registered attendee or registered guest to purchase tickets. 

$75 per person ticket price (inclusive of boat and bus fees)

Ticket registration will open late June.

Looking for the ultimate way to soak in the beauty of the Great Lake State? There’s no better way than cruising one of the Great Lakes themselves! Join us for a delightful day trip to the charming town of Saugatuck and a scenic, narrated cruise on the sparkling waters of Lake Michigan aboard the Star of Saugatuck – an authentic, old-fashioned sternwheeler paddleboat!

The adventure begins as you hop aboard and drift along the peaceful Kalamazoo River, gliding past cozy cottages, grand lakefront homes, and untouched natural beauty. With the paddlewheels gently churning and the breeze in your hair, you’ll cruise into Lake Kalamazoo, catch postcard-perfect views of Saugatuck, and—weather permitting—venture into the majestic open waters of Lake Michigan!

Beyond the cruise, you’ll have time to explore Saugatuck’s delightful downtown—think boutique shops, cozy cafés, and sweet treats—Then we’ll head back to Grand Rapids for a great week.

Agenda:

  • 11:45 AM - Bus arrives at Amway Grand and boarding begins
  • 12:00 PM - Bus departs Amway Grand
  • 12:45 PM - Arrive at Saugatuck and unload bus at 428 Butler Street (Town Square)
  • 12:45 - 2:45 PM – Explore the Town and eat lunch (On your own. Expense separate from tour ticket)
  • 2:45 PM - Board boat
  • 3:00 PM - Boat leaves Saugatuck dock
  • 4:30 PM - Boat arrives back in Saugatuck dock
  • 4:30 - 5:00 PM - Free to explore
  • 5:00 PM - Board Bus: 716 Water Street, Saugatuck
  • 5:15 PM - Bus leaves for Amway Grand
  • 6:00 PM - Bus arrives at the Amway Grand in Grand Rapids

Amenities: There are restrooms at the dock and also on the boat. There is beverage service on the boat: $8 mixed drinks, $5-$6 beers, $2-$3 non-alcohol beverages.  Snacks range from $2-$9. CASH ONLY!! They cannot run credit cards on the boat.  There is an ATM onsite. 

Important Notes/Reminders: Boat cruises rain or shine, unless there is lightning. The lower level is wheelchair accessible. Seating is assigned based on availability. Shirt & shoes required, pants too. NO outside food or beverages allowed, not even water. Walking required - It is a 6 minute walk (.03 miles) to the dock. The restaurants will be a short walk in any direction. The length of the town is .5 miles… so its never very far, but still requires a degree of mobility.

Restaurant Recommendations:

  1. The Barge (waterfront) on the north end of town
  2. The Butler (waterfront) on the south end of town
  3. Phil’s on Butler Street, not on the water

There are many small shops with ice cream, treats and beverages.