CAPTAIN JOHN'S BOAT TOURS

Experience The
Lake Effect

Southwest Michigan and Northwest Indiana Boat Tours with your very own captain. Escape to the lake, explore new shores, and travel in style.
REQUEST TO BOOK

TOURS. EXCURSIONS. MEMORIES.

We believe the best way to experience Lake Michigan is on the water. A day out on the lake is the perfect escape. Whether you’re looking to unwind or celebrate an occasion, a ride along the coastline is the most idyllic setting.

  • Guided Tours
    Explore the lakeshore with the Captain as your guide, pointing out landmarks, wildlife and the story of this corner of the lake.

    Leisure Trips
    Relax with friends and family as you spend some time out on the water. Chart your course ahead of time or let the Captain guide you along the coastline.

    Sunset Cruise
    Set sail on the lake right before sunset to capture breathtaking views and share a special evening together with your people.

    Make It Your Own

  • Model: Cobalt A28 Bowrider
    Length: 28 Feet
    Engine: Volvo Penta 400 Engine
    Deck: Seagrass Carpeting For Sure Footing
    Year: 2012
    More Information

  • Minimum Trip Time: 2 Hours
    Hourly Rate: $225 Per Hour
    Maximum Capacity: 6 People
    Availability: Thursdays — Tuesdays
    Payment: Cash, Venmo, Zelle

    All trips are dependent on weather conditions. Refunds will be provided if we are not able to venture out onto the lake. Alternatively, another date can be scheduled if possible.

  • 400 W Water St, New Buffalo, MI 49117

TRUSTED GUIDE

MEET YOUR CAPTAIN

Captain John has been boating in and around New Buffalo for the past 30 years. He is a Coast Guard licensed captain and will do everything he can to make sure you have a safe and memorable experience.

With a rich knowledge of boating, local history and stories to tell, Captain John is the perfect guide to the area. His goal is to ensure you feel safe and secured while having a great time out on the open waters.

REQUEST TO BOOK

REVIEWS

WHAT PEOPLE SAY

  • “Would highly recommended taking a boat excursion with Captain John. He made everything so easy to organize our trip. John has such a wealth of knowledge of Lake Michigan and the surrounding area. We can’t wait to get back to New Buffalo."

    — CATHY W.

  • "Captain John was very easy to communicate with, he was on time, and very friends and knowledgeable of the area. My kids said this was the best part of their day in New Buffalo. Highly recommend!"

    — CHELSY N.

  • "Wonderful afternoon with Captain John. Very easy to book. Captain is super friendly, the boat was very clean and nice ride on the lake. We had the maximum number people on the boat and it was comfortable for all of us."

    — ROBIN K.

  • "We loved our boat tour with Captain John! He was very responsive during booking. Payment was easy. We very much enjoyed the boat ride. The kids were thrilled! He even picked up on specific interests and adjusts the tour to meet those interests. Captain John is very knowledgeable about the area. The boat was plenty large for our group and clean with shade and sun seating available. It was a wonderful experience.

    — JULIE B.

  • "Captain John was very accommodating. He asked for our input to make the trip our own. He explained the sights of interest. It was a great trip!"

    — TAMMY W.

YOUR BOAT

A SMOOTH RIDE

Embark on an incredible journey along the coastline of Southwest Michigan on The Lake Effect. Relax and unwind on the open waters with this steady and strong ride. The boat is very comfortable, child-friendly and have life jackets available.

  • People: Up To 6 People
    Storage: Cooler, Snacks & Drinks Allowed

  • Model: Cobalt A28 Bowrider
    Length: 28 Feet
    Engine: Volvo Penta 400 Engine
    Deck: Seagrass Carpeting For Sure Footing
    Year: 2012
    More Information

REQUEST TO BOOK

ROUTES

CHART YOUR CRUISE

  • Southwest Michigan

    From New Buffalo to Warren Dunes State Park, explore historical and breathtaking sights along the shore. Cruise along the coastline for a joyride or a guided tour with friends or family.

  • Northwest Indiana

    From New Buffalo to the Indiana Dunes State Park, embark on a cruise along local communities or stop for a cocktail at one of the Michigan City Harbor front venues.

  • Up The River

    If the lake is too rough for a comfortable ride, you can opt for a more tranquil and serene cruise up the Galien River and catch sights of the local ecosystem and wildlife.

  • Make It Your Own

    If you are looking for something a little different, contact Captain John to see what is possible.

LOCATION & PRICING

FINAL DETAILS

All trips begin at the docks of the New Buffalo Harbor. Once arriving, Captain John will share a quick lesson on boat safety and outline the trip. There is a minimum trip time of two hours. After departing from the harbor, Captain John will safely steer and guide you along your route. The nature of the trip will be determined while booking. From start to finish, the trip will be catered to your needs. Whether you are seeking an informational guide, a quiet ride, or a more fun-filled adventure, Captain John will be happy to provide and ensure your safety.

Minimum Trip Time: 2 Hours
Hourly Rate: $225 Per Hour
Maximum Capacity: 6 People
Availability: Thursdays — Tuesdays
Payment: Cash, Venmo, Zelle

All trips are dependent on weather conditions. Refunds will be provided if we are not able to venture out onto the lake. Alternatively, another date can be scheduled if possible.

Request to book.

When inputting your request, please include the required information. Captain John will reach out to you to finalize details, and set a time. If you have any questions, feel free to include them here as well.

For Direct Requests, Questions & Contact:

Captain John
Phone: 312.339.8873
Email: johnghartmann@gmail.com

Location:

400 W Water St
New Buffalo, MI 49117