Featured image from Shipwreck Tours, Munising, Michigan

Driving time: 3 hours, 38 minutes

Mileage: 217 miles

The Great Lakes are not only stunningly beautiful but also hold a treasure trove of history beneath their waters. Poor weather conditions have turned these lakes into treacherous waters, claiming numerous vessels of all sizes over the years. Some of these shipwrecks are nationally famous, like the tragic story of the Edmund Fitzgerald, while others remain hidden, waiting to be discovered by adventurous souls. If you’re a history enthusiast and love uncovering hidden treasures, then embarking on a glass bottom shipwreck tour in Michigan is an experience you won’t want to miss. There are three main destinations in Michigan that offer these captivating excursions, and each one is worth exploring.

Stop #1: Alpena

Your journey begins in Alpena, the ultimate destination for underwater exploration and shipwreck diving in Michigan. Nestled on the shores of Lake Huron, this charming town is home to a national marine sanctuary, complete with glass bottom boat tours. The “Lady Michigan” will take you on a captivating journey through Lake Huron’s “Shipwreck Alley,” offering glimpses of two to five shipwrecks. However, this area is a sanctuary, concealing an estimated 200 shipwrecks, many of which remain undiscovered. The ones that have been located are often used for research, diving expeditions, and underwater technology testing. During the summer months, tours depart three times daily at 9:00 a.m., Noon, and 3:00 p.m. Tickets for adults are $39, $14 for ages 6-12, and kids under five can join the 2.5-hour cruise for just $1. An informative guide will narrate the tour, providing historical insights into the wrecks and the local area. Before or after your glass bottom boat tour, make sure to visit the free-entry Great Lakes Maritime Heritage Center. Stroll through historic Alpena, treat yourself to an ice-cream cone at Scoops, explore downtown shops, and perhaps enjoy a pint or two at Austin Brothers.

Stop #2: Cheboygan

Continue your adventure by heading north on U.S. 23, following the picturesque Lake Huron coastline. This scenic drive offers numerous beaches and roadside parks for leisurely stops and lunches. Your next destination is Cheboygan, where Nautical North Family Adventures has been providing shipwreck enthusiasts with an up-close look at Lake Huron’s wrecks since 2018. Their vessel, the “Yankee Sunshine,” takes you along the Cheboygan River, passing three lighthouses and skimming over three shallow water shipwrecks. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can even add snorkeling to your tour, with gear provided. Adult tickets are $29, children aged 6-12 are $14, and those under five years old can join for $5. Discounts are available for seniors and military personnel. After the tour, consider exploring the town for some delicious food and shopping. Don’t miss the fantastic farmer’s market on Wednesdays and Saturdays from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. if you’re in town on those days.

Stop #3: Munising

To reach your final destination, leave Cheboygan and drive 20 minutes north to the majestic Mackinac Bridge, spanning five miles across Michigan’s two vast peninsulas. Crossing this iconic bridge is an experience in itself. Once you reach the Upper Peninsula side, it’s just a short drive to Munising. This town is renowned for its breathtaking waterfalls and serves as the gateway to Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore. Munising is also home to the only glass bottom shipwreck tour on Lake Superior, operated by Shipwreck Tours. These tours run seven days a week until September 30, rain or shine, with five tours daily during July and August. The website proudly describes the tours as “fully narrated, educational, and entertaining.” During the two-hour tour, you’ll explore two historical shipwrecks—the Bermuda (sank in 1870) and Herman H. Hettler (sank in 1926). Along the way, you’ll cruise by the Grand Island’s East Channel Lighthouse, colorful rock cliffs, caves, beaches, and pristine wilderness. Tickets for adults are $38, seniors over 62 are $34, children are $14, and those under five can join for just $1. Weekends tend to be busier, so if possible, plan your visit during the week. It’s advisable to bring a jacket or sweatshirt, as it can be much cooler on the water than expected. Conveniently, all three glass bottom shipwreck tour companies offer online booking, allowing you to secure your tickets well in advance. With multiple tours departing daily, you’ll have a better chance of securing a spot on your preferred day of exploration. Don’t miss this extraordinary opportunity to delve into Michigan’s fascinating shipwreck history and witness the hidden wonders beneath the Great Lakes.