duck boat tours detroit

Detroit Duck Tours offers sightseeing on land and water

You might have seen them roaming around places like Boston, San Diego and Seattle, and now Detroit joins the roster as the latest American city to offer duck boat tours. The distinctive tour vehicles – resembling an ark on wheels – travel on both land and water, offering riders a combo bus tour and boat ride. 

Haitham Abu founded Detroit Duck Tour – which had a soft opening April 16 – with Noor Kestou in 2019 after finding two Pittsburgh duck boat tour vehicles for sale at auction. 

“I travel a lot, and I’ve seen stuff like this in other cities,” he said. “It shocked me with all that Detroit has, they didn’t have something like this.”

Abu, 25, grew up in Georgia after moving to the United States from Jordan at age 6. He worked and traveled extensively across the country as an adult, eventually moving to Detroit in early 2019 for a purchasing manager job. He said he had people visiting all the time and was always exploring and searching for things to do in Detroit.

The tours, he said, are meant not only to point out sites and to educate riders on the history of Detroit, but to also highlight the latest events and activities happening in the city, especially now that people are starting to go out more.  

“New businesses are showing up all the time, you don’t know what’s in and what’s out,” Abu said. “You need a company that kind of tells you what’s in Detroit, and that’s kind of where the whole idea for the business came from.”

The non-stop ride takes about an hour and a half and is currently all on land. The route takes riders through downtown, midtown, New Center, Eastern Market, the Riverfront, Belle Isle and the Heidelberg Project, pointing out sites like Campus Martius, the Guardian and Fisher Buildings, Comerica Park, Fox Theatre, the Detroit Institute of Arts, the Ford Piquette Avenue Plant and more. 

Abu said he aims to include the water component later this spring, which will add a boat ride from Belle Isle’s MacArthur Bridge to the Ambassador Bridge, discussing Detroit’s history and relationship with Canada, especially the Underground Railroad. The land tours will be offered year-round and the water route available during warmer months, he said.

“Finding locations wasn’t so hard,” he said. “It was [about] finding ones we couldn’t let go of, that we have to include.”

Abu said he also hopes to offer private and specialized tours that focus on specific aspects of the city, like arts and culture or industry, or seasonal for holidays like Halloween and Christmas. 

In addition to guiding riders through the city, the vehicles themselves offer a piece of Detroit, built by General Motors in the 1940s (and since updated). 

“You’re literally riding on a piece of history,” Abu said. “They’re built in Detroit, and they’re coming back to give tours around Detroit.”

Abu’s team currently includes two full-time and two part-time tour guides, as well as drivers, who specialize in their own unique part of Detroit, he said. While he worked with them on developing the route and topics to highlight, Abu said he is mostly letting them create their own scripts.

Lead tour guide Tyler Neeley, 25, grew up in Detroit and Southfield and said he is most excited to talk about the Heidelberg Project. He said he loves showcasing how a neighborhood in shambles was turned into a work of art and the power individual people have to make positive change.

He also said he is looking forward to taking visitors to downtown, showing off its parks and free attractions and how much it has changed in his lifetime. 

“I love the renovations and seeing the growth of it,” he said. “When I was a kid there weren’t too many things here.”

Driver Terry Bradley, 39, worked with Abu on creating the route over the winter and said he is most looking forward to showing off the beauty of Belle Isle. While he was born and raised in Detroit, Bradley said they thoroughly researched the city’s history, visited sites and spoke with local businesses, especially to learn about places that might not be as well known. 

He said he learned so much in the process, and the tour is great for both visitors and locals alike.

“I hope that if [riders] are from Detroit, they get a feeling of ‘My city is coming back to life,’” he said. “But for people who haven’t been here, they get to see the good side of Detroit and that it’s not everything you’re hearing about on the news.”

Abu, Bradley and Neeley agree that Detroit is so much more than its negative reputation, and they want to share its positives with the world. 

“Detroit has changed dramatically in the past five years, and no one’s talking about it,” Abu said. “I feel like it’s just a whisper, and we’re just trying to shout about what’s coming and what’s here already.” 

Detroit Duck Tours

Tours run seven days a week at 3 p.m. and 5 p.m., with an added 1 p.m. tour Fridays – Sundays.

Tickets: $24.99 for adults; $19.99 for veterans, seniors (65+) and children (3-11); and $8 for kids younger than 3.

Visit here .

Detroit Duck Tours

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DETROIT DUCK TOURS - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go

Diamond Jack's River Tours

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Diamond Jack's River Tours - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (2024)

Diamond Jack Detroit River Tours

Diamond Jack’s sightseeing tours are a great way to take in many popular and interesting attractions along the Detroit riverfront. Facilitated by one of our knowledgeable tour guides, each public tour includes detailed narration highlighting various points of interest and historic landmarks along the Detroit river.

Private Tours: Book Now for Spring/Summer 2024

At Diamond Jack’s River Tours, we pride ourselves on offering an exciting and affordable way to entertain your family, friends, and colleagues. For a one-of-a-kind riverboat experience on one of the busiest waterways in the world, you can make the Diamond Queen or Diamond Belle your own for a few hours or for a whole day. Give us a call to find out more. All aboard, Detroit!

Entertain Your Small Group On Board! Reserve for 2024 Now

Organizing a corporate party can seem like a daunting task, but with the help of Diamond Jack Detroit River Tours, you can be sure that any event will be a memorable one! Our private boat tours are a great way to see the sites of the Motor City at an affordable price. Make your next corporate party a successful one and call Diamond Jack’s River Tours today.

Diamond Jack Thanks You for a Fantastic Sailing Season!

Diamond Jack Riverboat Tours Summer Schedule Begins May 4, 2024! All Aboard Detroit!

2024 Public Tour Prices (per person)

Adults (13-59) – $25 Seniors (+60) – $20 Children (6-12) – $15 Children (5 and under) – $5

Handicapped accessible No wheelchair access for restrooms Snacks and beverages available on board No personal food/beverages to be brought on board

Check Out Our Special Summer Coupon Deal! Get Coupon

2024 Tour Times Boat Departing Times from DETROIT CULLEN PLAZA

Departure times for all dates shown below are: 1:00 PM 2:30 PM 4:00 PM 5:30 PM Arrive 30 Minutes Early for Boarding!

Diamond Jack Riverboat Schedule: May 6-28 — Saturdays & Sundays only --> May 4-26 — Saturdays & Sundays only May 30 - June 2 — No Tours During Grand Prix June 6 through September 1 — tours run Thursday through Sunday September 7-29 — Saturday & Sunday only *Departure times and routes subject to change  

Diamond Jack's does not accept reservations for its public river tours. All public tours are first come, first served. Masks are optional. No passports are required. Pay onboard. Boarding begins 30 minutes prior to departure. Please check with your host for the accurate dock location when attending private groups and charters.

Public Tour Dock Location 1340 Atwater, Detroit, MI 48207

Dock Directions

Tours & Charters

Detroit River Sightseeing Tours

Private Group & Event Charters

Reserve a spot for your Family Reunions, Corporate Party, School Field Trip, or fundraiser! We have hosted thousands of tours on the Detroit River with our fleet of distinctive charter boats. A Private Charter Tour is the perfect unique venue for your family, friends, co-workers or students. We look forward to cruising with you!

Public Sightseeing Tours

Diamond Jack's public sightseeing tours are a guided tour of popular and interesting attractions along the Detroit River. Our sightseeing tours allow people and groups to explore significant attractions in the region while enjoying a boat ride along the Detroit River. Our knowledgeable tour guides will give detailed narration of the various points of interest along the river.

Who is Diamond Jack?

Diamond Jack’s is a family-owned and operated riverboat tour business. We have been offering entertaining and affordable cruises to the residents of Detroit and its surrounding areas since 1991. Diamond Jack’s runs public sightseeing riverboat tours along the Detroit River and hosts private events on our two private charter boats.

We’re glad that you’re here! Diamond Jack's has deep roots in the Motor City, is a Pure Michigan company and a proud member of the Detroit community. Our goal is to showcase the city and state we love in a unique way. When you cruise with Diamond Jack's you’ll see Detroit from a whole new perspective. If you have a group or would like to charter one of our boats any day or night of the week, just call us at (313) 843-9376, or send us an email. We’ll get back with you right away.

Thank You for making last season a success! We appreciate your sailing with us! We look forward to seeing you again for your next private charter or public sightseeing tour.

Diamond Jack's River Tours

Charter Tours

Reserve a spot for your Family Reunions, Corporate Party, School Field Trip, or fundraiser! We have hosted thousands of tours on the Detroit River in our two charter boats. A Private Charter Tour is the perfect unique venue for your family, friends, co-workers or students. We look forward to cruising with you!

For any questions and to book now, use the button below to call us at (313) 843-9376 weekdays from 9AM – 4PM.

Contact Diamond Jack's

Our Address

PO Box 707, Lincoln Park, MI 48146

Office Hours: Monday—Friday: 9:00 a.m.—4:00 p.m.

(313) 843-9376

See Detroit Your Way

Our Sightseeing Tours

Daily van tours for one to six guests showcasing Detroit from Downtown to Local Secrets. We will go throughout the city to see the essentials. This usually includes visits inside several historic buildings throughout Downtown, Midtown, New Center, Lafayette Park, Eastern Market, The Detroit Riverfront, Belle Isle, and Corktown.

We can also include neighborhoods, parks, shops, and public art. Because this is a private tour we can customize it to your interests. See other tours ideas on our Tours page.

Contact us by calling 1-313-268-4415.

2 hour driving-tour

10:00am, 12:30pm, or 3:00pm

Enjoy the comfort of the tour-van throughout the entirety of the tour.

4+ hour walking/driving tour

Customize your starting time.

Drive to destinations in tour-van, walk around and inside key areas of interest.

Private Tours for up to six people.

$75 per adult

$40 per child (with an adult)

“This tour with JP is a must-do! Very knowledgeable, pleasant, and a terrific overview of the city. A comprehensive tour with much personal insight.” -Bridget

“Everything about JP and the tour is top notch. Even if you think you know Detroit JP will show you more treasures you never knew about that make up the city.” -Linda

“JP is knowledgeable, good company, and can customize a tour to fit whatever you’d like. I learned so much in one day. Highly recommend!!” -Mollee

Call us at 1-313-268-4415

Reservations.

Maria Kornacki

• The IT List

5 Boat Tours in Detroit to Keep the Summer Flow Going

Boat Tours in Detroit Help Create More Natural Fun! View the City From the Water This Season

• PHOTO ALOHA TIKI TOURS / DETROIT TIKI TOURS

Looking for something fun to do in Detroit? Look out to the water! Boat tours in Detroit are here for you to laugh, float, and splash your way through the city to make the most of this season. Have you had a look at other water activities in Detroit? There are several options both social and sports-related, but this list is great for gatherings like family reunions and team building, birthday parties, and more.

Your group just has to pedal. Bring your own snacks & drinks on board for a different type of team bonding. Detroitisit rounded up a list of the best boat tours in Detroit to add more excitement to this summer and look forward to next year.

DETROIT CYCLE BOAT

Boat tours in Detroit are big in the summertime, but get ready for an even bigger ride. Detroit Cycle Boat is a private charter that joins together all ages with friends, family, and co-workers. Detroit River looks extra glamorous up close and personal. Michigan’s beautiful summers and amazing waterways provide an exciting opportunity to enjoy the waters of Michigan. The newest boat, The Big Kahuna 2.0 Tiki Boat is the definition of a party. It’s the first and only 18 passenger tiki boats in the Midwest! This one provides a 2-hour tour for groups who don’t want to pedal that have a larger group! Click HERE to view their site.

Located at 11000 Freud St, Detroit, MI 48214. PHONE: (313) 710-5156

PHOTO TIKI BOATS DETROIT / ALOHA TIKI TOURS

DETROIT TIKI BOATS

The Motor City is always on the move. Get your gang together on a particularly hot summer day. You could go bar-crawling in Detroit or float on the water and let the drinks come to you. Boat tours in Detroit welcome you to test out the newest tiki bar ON the water. Now, you have no excuse to sit around and wonder what things to do in Detroit this summer. This “island getaway” raises the excitement level for bachelor/bachelorette parties, reunions, family gatherings, team buildings, and more. Click HERE  for more information. Up to 6 guests per Tiki. They also have St. Clair Shores Tiki Boats and Wyandotte Tiki Boat exploration.

Located at: 150 Saint-Jean St., Detroit, MI 48214. PHONE: 313-710-5156

DIAMOND JACK’S RIVER TOURS

Relax on the Detroit River these summer months. Take a two-hour tour of one of the world’s busiest international waterways, the Detroit River. This groovy cruise leaves twice a day from docks in two locations, The Upper Detroit River Tour departs from Detroit’s Rivard Plaza while the Lower Detroit River Tour departs from Bishop Park in Wyandotte. The ships Diamond Jack and Diamond Queen have sailed the Great Lakes for several years and are Coast Guard approved. Sail on by modern downtown Detroit for the Detroit tour and along the Canadian shore passing under the famous Ambassador Bridge. Boat tours in Detroit are still thriving because people love to view the city from the iconic river. Celebrate 31 years of the Detroit River tours! Click HERE for more information.

Located at 1340 Atwater St, Detroit, MI 48207. PHONE: (313) 843-9376

DETROIT PRINCESS BOAT

PHOTO DETROIT PRINCESS BOAT / DETROIT PRINCESS

The Detroit Princessriverboat awaits your openness to adventure. Docked on the DetroitRiver near Hart Plaza, the ship undertakes both private as well as public cruises and offers separate private charterers too. The cruises are generally two to three hours long, offering a scenic beauty of the DetroitRiver placed at your disposal. The shop specializes in a variety of cruises including moonlight cruises, fall color cruises, and dinner cruises. 1800 people can hop aboard the wondrously structured Detroit Princesses. Impress people by hosting parties, conferences, family outings, and a lot more! Click HERE for more information.

Located at 1 Civic Center Drive, Detroit, MI 48226. PHONE: (517) 627-2154

YACHT CHARTERS

What’s better than a yacht cruise? A yacht cruise where you can feast on a gourmet summer  meal with the wind in your hair. The Summer Cruise Series by Infinity and Ovation Yacht Charters is your go-to for extra special boat tours in Detroit that will make you feel like your life just got an upgrade for the day. The stunning skyline views along Lake St. Clair and the Detroit River are just as irresistible as the amenities. Dinners, an open bar, and live entertainment are included on some of the cruises. For all the romantics, consider taking your sweetheart aboard for a glimmering date night. These are typically adult-only cruises. Who knows? It could end up being your wedding venue! Boarding is at the Port Detroit Dock downtown. Click HERE  to book.

Located at:  400 Maple Park Blvd. Ste. 404    St. Clair Shores, MI 48081

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Tour Detroit

To some, city tours might conjure up images of buses crammed with fanny-packed rubberneckers. But in The D, where urban decay is being buffed away by innovation and opportunity, there's so much more to see beyond the bus window.

And buses aren't the only way to see and learn more about the area. There are multiple opportunities to experience the city with your own individualized twist. So follow your nose and taste buds on a gourmand's pilgrimage through the various bars and breweries in downtown Detroit.

Take in the array of architectural styles while whizzing by on a Segway two-wheel electric vehicle or paddle boat. Or give yourself a more physical challenge with a bike ride or walking tour. Whatever your speed, here's a roundup of some of the best-loved tours that will get you on the road to introducing – or reacquainting – yourself with the Motor City.

1 DAY | 1-3 HOURS

1. car, bus, bike and boat tours.

One of the best ways to experience Detroit is to get out in the fresh air, where the smells and sounds help paint a picture of the city today. In recent years, several local tour companies have sprung up to accommodate growing numbers of tourists and locals alike who are curious about the new face of The D.

Feet on the Street Tours provides walking, car and bus tours for an individual to groups of many. Tours are usually organized around a theme. Prohibition in Detroit explores Detroit’s role in Prohibition and the origins of the legendary Purple Gang. A public tour of Eastern Market includes sampling delicious cuisine along the way. Tours can be customized to your preference as well.

Want to add a workout to your tour? Take in the vistas of the city by bicycle. Wheelhouse Detroit is a local favorite where you can rent cruisers, comfort hybrid and road bikes, as well as kid-friendly bikes and accessories. Tours (starting at $25) include Eastern Market, Corktown, Grandmont Rosedale, southwest Detroit, Hamtramck, Belle Isle, historic churches and public art.

If you’re feeling a little lazy and want someone else to do all the pedaling, take a rickshaw tour with Rickshaw Detroit . You can arrange personalized tours with your pedicab driver.

On a fine summer day, climb aboard the top deck of one of the boats in Diamond Jack’s fleet. Tours include two-hour narrated cruises ($20) on the Detroit River, the world’s busiest international waterway, on Thursdays, Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays June through the first week of September. You’ll see the Detroit and Windsor skylines and glimpse some historical wonders along the river.

2. ART & ARCHITECTURE TOURS

The Detroit skyline is dotted with skyscrapers built during the pre-Depression era. In fact, Detroit is one of the only cities in the country so faithfully emblematic of this architectural style.

Names such as Albert Kahn, George D. Mason and Wirt C. Rowland are synonymous with Detroit architecture. Minoru Yamasaki, who later designed the World Trade Center, also got his start here, where he designed buildings including One Woodward Avenue.

To get a comprehensive glimpse of this work, your itinerary should include the vacant, but magnificent Michigan Central Depot; the Westin Book Cadillac Detroit hotel, built in the 1900s and given a $200-million renovation in 2008; the Chicago style-influenced Penobscot Building, which was designed by Rowland and Detroit sculptor Corrado Parducci; the golden orange art deco Guardian Building; and the Fisher and General Motors Building (Cadillac Place), both designed by Kahn and located in Detroit’s New Center area. Check out self-guided tours of Detroit’s historic commercial buildings, churches, estates and neighborhoods. Or contact one of the many bus or walking tour companies to arrange for an architectural tour. Preservation Wayne, Detroit’s oldest and largest architectural preservation organization, offers trips focusing on Kahn’s buildings, downtown skyscrapers and more. Detroit Urban Adventures also offers a tour titled Detroit’s Rise, Fall & Renewal that covers the old and the new.

A tour of the buildings that sprouted up during the city’s heyday will inevitably reveal a few heartbreaking examples of grand structures forgotten. For those with a fascination for urban decay, you can take a web-based tour of some of Detroit’s “fabulous ruins”.

For a more upbeat interpretation on the topic, feast your eyes on Detroit’s Heidelberg Project , which has transformed abandoned houses into works of art – a thought-provoking commentary on decay and rebirth. It was recently announced that the Heidelberg Project will be evolving from a one man art installation to a thriving arts and culture community that will lift the entire neighborhood.

After visiting the Heidelberg Project, you’ll want to continue to get inspired by the beautiful artistic imagination of other metro Detroiters and visiting artists who left their mark all around the city. Visit Joe Louis’ sculpted fist, snap a picture of the Spirit of Detroit statue (sometimes decked out in Detroit Tigers or Red Wings jerseys) or pause to appreciate Detroit’s Pewabic Pottery murals that brighten People Mover stations and Comerica Park.

Also get yourself over to the Detroit Institute of Arts , where you’ll marvel at Diego Rivera’s Detroit Industry fresco cycle, inspired by the grind and grit of the city’s manufacturing glory days of the 1930s. Both docent-guided and audio tours are available.

Another worthwhile stop is the Cranbrook Art Museum . While there, architecture fans should stop by the art deco Saarinen House , which was the home and studio of Finnish-American designer Eliel Saarinen from 1930 through 1950.

3. FOOD & WINE TOURS

A great way to get to know a city is through your stomach. Detroit, with its delectable spanakopita, pierogi and Coney dogs, does not disappoint. Foodies should make their way to Eastern Market, the largest historic public market in the U.S., which has been serving up vegetables, breads, cheeses and spices since 1891. Greektown is a treasure trove of great cuisine and another must. You might also want to add the two famous dueling Coney joints on your itinerary: American Coney Island and Lafayette Coney Island . You can then decide who has the best dog and take part in the lively debate that has been taking place between metro Detroiters for years.

In the mood to imbibe? Sample the latest craft brews on a Motor City Brew Tour, with guided bus transportation, tours at local breweries, beer samples and snacks.

The wine crowd will toast to the southeast Michigan Pioneer Wine Trail , which includes Burgdorf Winery in Haslett; Chateau Aeronautique Winery in Jackson; Cherry Creek Cellars in Brooklyn; Parma, J. Trees Cellars in Blissfield; Lone Oak Vineyard Estate in Grass Lake; Pentamere Winery in Tecumseh; Sandhill Crane Vineyards in Jackson (a favorite of our editor); and Sleeping Bear Winery in Parma. Make a weekend out of exploring these award-winning vintners by car and visit pioneerwinetrail.com for upcoming events.

4. HISTORY & MUSIC TOURS

The American Revolution. The Underground Railroad. Birthplace of the automobile. The Civil Rights movement. If you didn’t already realize it, The D’s a goldmine for history geeks.

The best way to explore Detroit’s historic sites is by taking a tour such as the ones offered by Preservation Detroit . The organization offers tours through the city’s Prohibition past, as well as Mt. Elliott Cemetery, which houses the city’s earliest settlers, founding families and other notable figures.

You can also take the self-guided historic sites tour available on experiencedetroit.com , which includes the Ford Rouge factory, Fort Wayne, Sainte Anne de Detroit church, Campus Martius , Motown Historical Museum and Ford Piquette Plant .

The Henry Ford Museum of American Innovation is a definite must for history lovers, particularly for those interested in the birth of the automobile and the man whose dream put the nation on wheels. See how the car transformed American life; check out architect R. Buckminster Fuller’s Dymaxion House; view Abraham Lincoln’s rocking chair (from the night of his assassination); and climb on board the bus where Detroiter Rosa Parks refused to give up her seat to a white passenger, sparking the 1955 Montgomery Bus Boycott. Separate from the museum but also a worthwhile stop, The Henry Ford’s Ford Rouge Factory Tour is the only Detroit automotive plant tour that is available to the public.

The city’s rich African-American history is underscored by the fact that it was a key stop along the Underground Railroad (Detroit’s codename along the legendary route was Midnight) and that Martin Luther King Jr. gave a first version of his I Have a Dream speech here.

The First Congregational Church of Detroit hid refugee slaves en route to Canada in its basement. It now houses the Living Museum and the Underground Railroad Flight to Freedom Program Tour, which gives groups of visitors a simulated experience of what it might have been like to be a runaway slave.

Visit the Charles H. Wright Museum of African American History to uncover more of the story of African-Americans in The D. Named for a Detroit physician committed to preserving black history, the museum houses the Harriet Tubman and Coleman A. Young collections, in addition to the permanent exhibit And Still We Rise: Our Journey through African American History and Culture which follows the journey of African-Americans across continents to present-day Detroit.

If you’re interested in Holocaust history, visit the Holocaust Memorial Center Zekelman Family Campus in Farmington Hills for guided tours, which may include an opportunity to speak with a Holocaust survivor.

The Detroit Historical Museum is one of the oldest and largest museums dedicated to metropolitan history in the U.S., encompassing more than three centuries of metro Detroit history. Check out an assembly line, a 19th century street scene and more. Rotating exhibits focus on various themes in Detroit’s past, such as major retailers, Vietnam veterans and the Underground Railroad.

The D is called Motown for good reason. Music lovers visiting the area will be richly rewarded when they fill their itineraries with historic sites and fill their ears with the sweet sounds that defined generations – and continue to influence music today.

No audiophile’s journey to Motown is complete without a visit to the Motown Museum , the unassuming little building that launched some very big careers. (Allow us to name-drop: Stevie Wonder, Smokey Robinson, the Temptations, Diana Ross, the Jackson 5… We could go on and on and on, but there isn’t enough space here.)

Catch even more Motown music fever with a Motown dinner cruise on the Detroit Princess riverboat. Docked in downtown Detroit, the Detroit Princess offers food, drink and live renditions of Motown favorites just about every weekend in the summer and fall.

Fast forward a few decades and you’ll find that The D is also the home of one of the most contemporary music forms, as the birthplace of techno music. The annual Movement electronic music festival celebrates the experience of electronic music every May in Hart Plaza.

Turn a few heads and class up your tour with a luxury vehicle – a limousine, luxury SUV or limo bus with Top Notch Bus and Limousine.

5. BEHIND THE SCENES TOURS & MORE

While you’re out and about, you’ll also want to check out the following behind-the-scenes tours at:

• Comerica Park
• The Parade Company
• Pewabic Pottery
• The Fox Theatre
• Morley Candy & Sanders
• Westview Orchards & Adventure Farm

Here are even more tours you may be interested in:

• Detroit Princess Riverboat
• Historic Indian Village
• Edsel & Eleanor Ford House
• Meadow Brook Hall
• Elmwood Historic Cemetery
• The GM Renaissance Center
• Historic Boston-Edison

Some tours require a minimum number of guests. Please call ahead for details.

Mentioned Attractions And Venues

Eastern Market Russell Street between Mack Avenue and Gratiot Avenue, 2934 Russell St. Detroit, Michigan 48207

Russell Street between Mack Avenue and Gratiot Avenue, 2934 Russell St. Detroit, Michigan 48207 (313) 833-9300 Website

Diamond Jack's River Tours 1340 E. Atwater St. Detroit, Michigan 48243

1340 E. Atwater St. Detroit, Michigan 48243 (313) 843-9376 Website

Detroit Institute of Arts 5200 Woodward Ave. Detroit, Michigan 48202

5200 Woodward Ave. Detroit, Michigan 48202 (313) 833-7900 Website Find A Room

Preservation Detroit 8801 Woodward Ave. Detroit, Michigan 48202

8801 Woodward Ave. Detroit, Michigan 48202 (313) 284-9278 Website

American Coney Island 114 W. Lafayette Blvd. Detroit, Michigan 48226

114 W. Lafayette Blvd. Detroit, Michigan 48226 (313) 961-7758 Website

Lafayette Coney Island 118 W. Lafayette Blvd. Detroit, Michigan 48226

118 W. Lafayette Blvd. Detroit, Michigan 48226 (313) 964-8198 Website

Charles H. Wright Museum of African American History 315 E. Warren Ave. Detroit, Michigan 48201

315 E. Warren Ave. Detroit, Michigan 48201 (313) 494-5800 Website

The Henry Ford 20900 Oakwood Blvd. Dearborn, Michigan 48124

20900 Oakwood Blvd. Dearborn, Michigan 48124 (313) 982-6001 Website

Motown Museum 2648 W. Grand Blvd. Detroit, Michigan 48208

2648 W. Grand Blvd. Detroit, Michigan 48208 (313) 875-2264 Website

Campus Martius Park 800 Woodward Ave. Detroit, Michigan 48226

800 Woodward Ave. Detroit, Michigan 48226 (313) 962-0101 Website

Ford Piquette Avenue Plant / Model T Automotive Heritage Complex 461 Piquette Ave. Detroit, Michigan 48202

461 Piquette Ave. Detroit, Michigan 48202 (313) 872-8759 Website

The Basilica of Ste. Anne de Detroit 1000 St. Anne St. Detroit, Michigan 48216

1000 St. Anne St. Detroit, Michigan 48216 (313) 496-1701 Website

Comerica Park 2100 Woodward Ave. Detroit, Michigan 48201

2100 Woodward Ave. Detroit, Michigan 48201 (313) 471-2000 Website

The Parade Company 9500 Mt. Elliott St., Studio A Detroit, Michigan 48211

9500 Mt. Elliott St., Studio A Detroit, Michigan 48211 (313) 923-7400 Website

Pewabic Pottery 10125 E. Jefferson Ave. Detroit, Michigan 48214

10125 E. Jefferson Ave. Detroit, Michigan 48214 (313) 626-2000 Website Find A Room

Ford House 1100 Lake Shore Road Grosse Pointe Shores, Michigan 48236

1100 Lake Shore Road Grosse Pointe Shores, Michigan 48236 (313) 884-4222 Website

GM Renaissance Center 100 GM Renaissance Center Detroit, Michigan 48243

100 GM Renaissance Center Detroit, Michigan 48243 (313) 567-3126 Website

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Join Us for an Unforgettable Celebration! Cinco De Mayo Cruise, Departing May 5th, 2024!

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2 hour Sightseeing Cruise of Detroit River

Quick Details

• User Ages: All Ages - Under 18 must be accompanied by an adult.
• Hour Glass Duration: 2 hours

Enjoy a relaxing 2 hour Commentated Sightseeing Cruise of the Historic Detroit River and Windsor and Detroit Waterfront!

Relax and enjoy a scenic cruise along the historic Detroit River. See some of the most iconic sights and skylines including Hiram Walker, Belle Isle, waterfront mansions, the Ambassador bridge, GM Renaissance Center while cruising along Windsor’s and Detroit’s shoreline. Learn about some of the region’s most unique and fascinating landmarks along the river.  Discover Windsor and Detroit’s role during the Prohibition Era.

Sightseeing Detroit River cruises are the most affordable way for visitors and local residents to get out on the water for an enjoyable, afternoon scenic tour of the Detroit River. We offer a full service bar. Snacks and beverages available to fit every budget. Food fare from Hotdogs to Burrata Cheese Ball with Blistered Grapes & grilled Rustic Bread. Budweiser to Specialty cocktails. Try our famous “Flirty Mermaid”.   0% beer and non alcoholic mocktails also available.

Boarding – 30 minutes prior to departure at the foot of Ouellette Street, located behind the Canadian flag.

• Chevron down Do I have to purchase tickets in advance?

Advanced purchase is highly recommended. To maximize the chance of getting the day and time you prefer, be sure to book well in advance.

• Chevron down Is the cruise narrated?

Yes, the cruise is narrated and throughout the cruise we will point out sites and highlights as we approach them.

• Chevron down Are there any stops along the way?

We will be viewing all of the beautiful sights from the boat and will not be stopping to get off the boat at any time during the cruise.

• Chevron down Can I bring my own food or beverages on the boat?

No, outside food and beverages are not allowed on board the boat.

For more queries, visit our FAQ page.

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Discover detroit's premier riverboat dining and entertainment experience celebrating 20 years on the detroit river.

2024 marks a significant milestone for Detroit Princess as we proudly celebrate two decades of cruising the Detroit River. We are so grateful to our community, this incredible city we call home, and the supportive corporate community that has played a pivotal role in our journey.

Planning an event in Downtown Detroit? From intimate gatherings to grand celebrations, the Detroit Princess Riverboat is the perfect venue for any size event, accommodating from 1 to 1000 guests with ease. Our riverboat is ideal for various private events, including corporate functions, weddings, family reunions, birthday parties, or just a fun night on the Detroit Riverwalk. To schedule your unique event, please call us at (313) 631-2628 or visit our Charter Cruise section to fill out our information request form. For exclusive offers and special pricing, visit our General Information page HERE to join our mailing list for last minute cruise specials and special pricing!

For reservations, directions, or information please call or email CJC Cruises and the Detroit Princess Riverboat at: Phone: (313) 631-2628 or (877) 338-2628 Email: [email protected]

Great Views!

Providing a wonderful view of the Detroit and Windsor skylines.

Multiple Entertainment Options

Motown shows, Murder Mystery Dinner Theater, Live Bands, DJ's, and more!

Cruise Dates

Many cruise dates and options available!

Bar Service Available

Several fully-stocked bars on board for purchase of hand poured cocktails, a quality wine selection and domestic/craft beers during public or private cruise events!

All Aboard!

Discover the ideal venue for your private events in downtown detroit.

Elevate Your Event on Detroit's Iconic Riverboat

Transform your special occasions into unforgettable experiences with the Detroit Princess Riverboat. Our venue is not just about the unique setting; it's about creating moments that last a lifetime.

Picture your dream wedding on the scenic Detroit River, where elegance meets romance. Our dedicated team will ensure every detail reflects your vision, from the decor to the dining.

Corporate Events

Impress your colleagues and clients with a corporate event venue that combines business and pleasure. Our spaces are perfect for conferences, team-building events, or casual networking sessions.

Celebrations

Family reunions, birthdays, holiday parties – whatever you're celebrating, we make it extraordinary. Our riverboat venue offers a festive and inviting atmosphere, perfect for making memories.

Customized Experiences<

We understand that each event is unique. That's why our staff is committed to personalizing your occasion, offering flexible options to suit your specific needs.

Every cruise season, we're here to assist you in planning an amazing and memorable experience. Let the Detroit Princess be the backdrop to your next great event, where the beauty of Downtown Detroit adds to your special day. Contact us to start planning today!

- Captain Scott

Come see the best views of Detroit!

Check out our upcoming cruises!

Sunset dinner cruise, lunch cruise, join us aboard.

Buy tickets for a cruise or create your own party!.

Let’s Party!

Welcome to Tiki Paradise!

Hula your way on board to Michigan’s first and only charter Tiiki boats! Aloha Tiki Tours takes the tiki bar to the water and allows you to sail away to paradise.

Capture major Island vIbes for your next gatherIng!

Throw the best party of the summer on the Detroit River, in St. Clair Shores, or Wyandotte. With multiple Tikis available at all locations, we can accommodate parties big and small!

THE PERFECT ISLAND-LIke GETAWAY FOR ANY OCCASSION:

Team Building

Bachelor Parties

Corporate Events

Birthday Parties

College Outings

Bachelorette Parties

Sporting Events

Family Gatherings

CHECK OUT OUR NEWEST BOAT: The Big Kahuna 2.0!

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• Calendar Daily , Year Round
• Hour Glass Approximately 1.5 Hours

90 Minute Duck Tour In South Beach

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