Discovery Cruises Weddings

Welcome to Traverse City's Only Floating Event Center

As we navigate the beautiful waters of West Grand Traverse Bay on the most unique event venue in Traverse City – our team of experienced event planners can assist both of you as you vow to navigate life together. With the beautiful emerald waters of the bay as your backdrop, we can offer you and your guests an event atmosphere that is truly unlike any other. Morning, afternoon or evening private cruises are available to set the perfect tone for romance on your special day.

Wedding parties can be as varied as the couple tying the knot, so we are here to offer personalized service in assisting you with all aspects of your event. All events are fully customizable so you will have the ability to choose your own caterer, food and beverage, minister, flowers, audio/visual, entertainment, decorations and more! All to make this the most special day of your life! And, because of the open layout of both decks on our vessel we have the versatility to offer an array of seating arrangements and event set ups. The Discovery is the perfect venue not only for weddings but for rehearsal dinners, bachelor and bachelorette parties, wedding receptions, bridal luncheons, engagement parties and more. No longer worry about rain or too much sun, because we’ve got you covered! Both decks on the Discovery vessel are covered but still offer 360-degree views. And for those perfect weather days, there is an outdoor observation area on the second deck perfect for saying “I do”.

Seating Capacities / Occupancy

The maximum capacity of the Discovery vessel for weddings is 100 passengers. The vessel can be confirmed for events ranging in size from 1-100 guests, however, guest numbers will vary dependent on the type of function and seating arrangements required. In most cases, due to space restrictions because of tables, chairs, dance floors etc. the maximum capacities more commonly max out below 100 guests. The different configurations for seating on each deck are versatile and vary from theater style for wedding ceremonies on the upper deck to table seating for meal functions on both lower and upper decks to cocktail reception set ups with dance floors and entertainment. Please contact our  event planners to discuss various possibilities designed for your specific event and more accurate and precise occupancy possibilities.

                                                                          Private wedding charter rentals include:

• Exclusivity to the vessel just for your event which will include the Captain and Crew
• Flexibility to set your own cruise time (based on availability)
• Request for your own cruising route (limitations apply)
• Ability to choose your own caterer, entertainment and décor
• Tax and Fuel
• Sound system with CD Player or iPod/MP3/phone hook-up for music
• Wireless microphone
• Access to (2) flat screen TVs for computerized slide shows, DVDs or videos
• Versatile deck set ups to include chairs, various size tables, buffets etc.
• Restrooms
• 110 Volt Power
•  Events coordinator to assist with your pre-planning and on-site coordination

Rates

Catering

Due to the special requirements of food preparation and serving meals with limited facilities, we highly recommend that the catering company you select sends a representative to inspect the vessel to be better prepared for serving logistics and limitations. The Discovery Cruises event manager must be informed of the catering company or any other vendors that you will be using for your event and an appointment must be scheduled for any vendors needing a site inspection.  Catering companies are in very high demand in Traverse City so we recommend that if you will be utilizing a caterer for your event, that you contact them in sync with booking your cruise date to ensure they are available for the same date and time.  If you prefer to not have a catered event but would like food available on a cash basis for your guests, Discovery Cruises can provide access to our snack bar during your event with prior arrangements made.  Your event planner can also share additional creative food options available for any event!  Please be aware that Discovery Cruises will charge a $250.00 service/cleaning fee for all outside catered events.

Wedding Officiant

We are honored to host weddings on board the Discovery and are happy to have Captain Harley (who is also an ordained minister in the Universal Life Church) officiate the wedding ceremony or you can bring your own officiant to perform the ceremony. We have a few ceremonies that are our favorites but each of our wedding couples can customize the vows to meet their personal style. There is a $350.00 charge to Discovery Cruises if you would like to use the services of our Captain for your wedding ceremony.

Reach Out with Questions!

So, now that you may be considering our unique venue for your special event, you probably have questions. We would love to hear from you! When you are ready, please take a moment to provide us with some information about your upcoming event. This information will help us prepare ahead of time so when we contact you we will be able to provide more detailed answers to your questions and offer more possible options and ideas to start the planning process. If you prefer to speak with us directly instead, no problem... please call us at 231-943-1183.

Request More Wedding Information

Other Important Documents (Coming Soon)

• Directory of Services
• Charter Terms and Conditions
• Bar Packages
• Equipment Rentals & Rates