About this Experience
What you'll do:
You and your group will board a private pontoon on Harsen's Island and spend two hours cruising Lake St. Clair's calm channels, with the freedom to drop anchor, swim, paddle, or simply drift with music playing and drinks in hand.
Boat options: Choose a 23-foot tritoon for up to 10 guests or a 16-foot pontoon for up to 7, both fully equipped for a self-guided cruise on Lake St. Clair.
Add kayaks or paddleboards: Rent paddle gear to go alongside your pontoon rental, so the group can split up, explore, and reconvene at anchor.
Marina store stocked for you: Pick up ice, beer, wine, seltzers, snacks, or bait and tackle from the on-site shop before you push off from the dock.
Made-to-order food: Place a food order at the marina before departure and fuel up properly rather than relying on chips and a cooler.
Flexible hours: Rentals run from 8 AM to 7 PM, so you can catch the morning calm, a midday swim, or that late-afternoon golden-hour light.
Book this pontoon rental for your group if you want a day that actually feels like a getaway, not just an activity. The island setting and calm water do most of the work.
Why you'll love it for your bachelorette or birthday group:
Private floating party: Your pontoon is yours alone, so there is no sharing the dock, the playlist, or the vibe with strangers.
True island escape: Harsen's Island sits off the Detroit-area shoreline and genuinely feels removed from the city, even though it is an easy drive and ferry ride away.
Cold drinks, no planning stress: The marina stocks beer, seltzers, wine, and snacks on-site, so your group does not need to haul a full cooler from home.
Bachelorette-ready setup: This is one of the most-booked party boat rentals in the Detroit area for bachelorette groups specifically, and it earns that reputation.
Kayak add-on for the adventurous half: Not everyone wants to lounge the whole time, and the paddleboard and kayak rental option gives the active crew something to do while others relax on deck.
About this experience partner:
Middle Channel Marina, formerly Minnich's Marina, is a family-run marina on Harsen's Island offering pontoon boat rentals, kayak rentals, and on-site dining for groups visiting Lake St. Clair. The new ownership has updated the facilities while preserving the low-key island character that regulars have always come for. They cater especially to group outings, bachelorette parties, and birthday celebrations looking for a private, self-directed day on the water.
Additional information:
Location: Harsen's Island, MI, accessible by ferry from the mainland
Rental capacity: Up to 10 guests on tritoon rentals, up to 7 on standard pontoons
Rental hours: 8 AM to 7 PM
On-site supplies: Beer, wine, seltzers, snacks, ice, bait and tackle, and made-to-order food available for purchase
No pets allowed
Best for: Bachelorette parties, birthdays, family outings, and small group getaways
Book This Experience
Visit the experience booking site to check availability and book your experience.
LocationDetroit, MI
7858 Middle Channel Dr, Harsens Island, MI 48028, USADetroit, MI
Reviews
Frequently Asked Questions
What types of boats can I rent?
You can rent pontoons, fishing boats, kayaks & paddleboards, and even houseboats for overnight stays.
What is the fuel policy?
Boats come with a full tank of gas; you pay for what you use. Refueling must be done at the marina only.
What is the security deposit policy?
A credit card is required on file for a security deposit at check-out. For example: pontoon/tritoon boats require a ~$1,500 deposit.
What happens if the weather turns bad?
For safety, the marina reserves the right to cancel or reschedule rentals in unsafe conditions (e.g., small craft advisories). If cancellation is from their side due to weather, you may receive a voucher for a future rental in the same season — not a cash refund. But note: you cannot get a refund if you return early because of weather.
What is included with the boat rental?
Life jackets (adult and kids), dock lines, fenders, anchor, fire extinguisher, throw cushion, paddle/ oars (depending on the craft).
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How do I get to the island?
Harsens Island is accessible by car ferry. The ferry runs frequently and takes only a few minutes to cross. It is $15 cash for a round trip.




















