Floating B&B's

I love to watch waves as they roll toward shore. The sound is so rhythmic and tranquil. That's why I like to find places to stay that are near one of Michigan's Great Lakes. A floating B&B (Boat and Breakfast) is a perfect way to enjoy the sights and sounds of a waterfront location. These unique lodgings are not common place. So, when I find one, I make note of it for a possible future overnight stay.

While the list is short, here are some Floating B&B’s in Michigan:

Sea Suites:

LOCATION: 219 North Union Street, Douglas, Michigan, USA

(269) 426-0381

Website:  Sea Suites

We have done a variety of cabin categories on cruise ships but this was our chance to stay overnight on a private yacht that is permanently docked near Lake Michigan.  In 2005, Pete and Sally (owners) had the unique idea of opening a floating B&B.  Sea Suites is a custom-built 105’ yacht with four staterooms. Each has a queen bed and private bathroom with a shower and marine-head toilet. 

Pete and Sally greet us at the door (as a courtesy, guests leave their shoes at the door – we had slippers with us). We have Room #3 with a view of a faux lighthouse. Our guest room has a number of lighting combinations and dimmer switches and a large ceiling fan over the queen size bed. Mirrors help to give the cozy room a sense of space.  

 Room 3 and Room View

At 9 am, we go down the hallway to the living/dining area where we have breakfast (waffles topped with fruit and whipped cream, yogurt, bananas, and orange juice/coffee).

Living Room

The Sea Suite has a partially covered Sky Deck that offers guests a great place to relax and enjoy the view. Unfortunately for us, the weather during our spring visit was to cold to use the rooftop Sky Deck … maybe another time we can get the full experience.

S.S. Badger:

Badger & Ludington Pier Light

LOCATION: 701 Maritime Drive, Ludington, Michigan, USA

(231) 845-9614 or (800) 841-4243

Website:  Badger Info

The 410’ long S.S. Badger began service in 1953 as a car ferry. Today, it still transports people and vehicles across Lake Michigan from Ludington, Michigan to Manitowoc, Wisconsin.

Near the end of the 2008 season, the Badger offered a limited number of private staterooms as a Bed and Breakfast option for guests sailing the next morning on the four-hour cruise to Wisconsin. So, we took advantage of this opportunity. Check-in was between 8-10 pm the night before our sailing.

Our stateroom was compact but functional. It had two twin beds against the side walls with a narrow aisle between the beds. The cabin had a toilet and sink but no shower. An added bonus of the B&B option allowed us to continue using our private stateroom during the four hour crossing.

Private Stateroom

During the evening, there was a feature-length movie shown in the movie lounge. Later, we shared some late-night snacks and refreshments (items we brought) with another couple we met onboard.

Included in the B&B package was a voucher for the breakfast buffet in the dining area. The mass-prepared buffet food was okay. Breakfast was available for purchase to those passengers doing the four-hour crossing. As a result, the dining area got a little crowded. For current information on sailings and the B&B option, please check their website by clicking on the link provided.

Badger docked in Ludington during the "off season"

In 2009, the S.S. Badger was listed on the National Register of Historic Places. On February 18, 2016, the U.S. Department of the Interior designated the S.S. Badger as a National Historic Landmark recognizing it for its “...exceptional value and in illustrating an aspect transportation technology in the mid-twentieth century.”

S.S. City of Milwaukee:

S.S. City of Milwaukee

LOCATION: 99 Arthur Street (aka US-31), Manistee, Michigan, USA

(231) 723-3587

Website:  SS City of Milwaukee B&B

Built in 1931, the S.S. City of Milwaukee is a 360’ long ship that transported passengers and rail traffic across Lake Michigan. In 1990, it was listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

Now serving as a Manistee landmark, this historic steamship is available for tours and offers a unique lodging opportunity on weekends from June through early September. We have not personally stayed overnight here but it is on my “check this out” list of places to stay.

MANITOU B&B:

I can't believe I don't have a photo!!

LOCATION: 13258 S.W. Bay Shore Drive, Traverse City, Michigan (USA)
(231) 941-2000

Website:  Manitou B&B

This tall-sailing ship is a replica of an 1800’s schooner. There are 11 private cabins below deck. Each has two built-in single bunk beds and electric lighting … or if the weather is pleasant – sleep on deck under the stars!

Whenever we visit Traverse City, we keep an eye on Grand Traverse Bay looking for the big white sails of a tall ship. Seeing one of these sailing vessels makes me wish I were there on deck feeling the breeze gently blowing my hair, feeling the warmth of the sun on my face, and feeling like … “I’m king of the world!”

This is another floating B&B that we haven’t had the opportunity to try yet. However, we did stop at the pier when the ship was docked to inquire about the B&B. We were allowed to come aboard and take a quick tour of the sailing ship. It’s modern but simple facilities are perfect for those wishing to experience a night (or more) aboard a windjammer. 

A floating B&B is a unique lodging experience. In the words of Mark Twain, “Twenty years from now you will be more disappointed by the things that you didn’t do than by the ones you did do. So throw off the bowlines. Sail away from safe harbor. Catch the trade winds.”

May all your travels be smooth sailing!

Looking for other unusual lodging opportunities?  I invite you to view my blog post on "Unique Lodging in Michigan" by clicking on the following link:
Denice's Blog Post - Unique Lodging in Michigan

Unique Lodging in Michigan

Over the years, we have spent many weekends enjoying Michigan’s natural beauty and recreational opportunities. While touring this beautiful state, we discovered some unique lodging options that offer an exciting alternative to traditional hotel rooms. From converted historic buildings to modes of transportation, here are some of our favorites (in no particular order of preference):

HENDERSON CASTLE INN:

Location:  100 Monroe Street, Kalamazoo, Michigan (USA)

(269) 344-1827

Website:  Henderson Castle

Built n 1895, this 11,000 square foot, Queen Ann style house is located on a hill overlooking downtown Kalamazoo.

The paved driveway goes up the hill to the parking area.  On the day we arrived, the late afternoon sun was casting a warm glow on the brick and sandstone exterior.  Despite the snow on the ground and the cold temperature, we climb a short set of steps to the gazebo.

 View of Castle from Gazebo

It's time to check-in.  We walk across the tiled floor of the front porch. One of the first things we notice are the beautiful glass doors. Henderson Castle is filled with antiques, crystal chandeliers,and warm wood accents.

 Front Doors

 Lobby Area

Main Floor Dining Room

At the stairway landing to the second floor is a beautiful stained glass window.

We stayed here the night of New Years Day.  So, the Castle still displayed its Christmas decorations. 

Our second floor guest room is the Italian Suite.  It was Mr. Henderson's private quarters.  Talk about luxury - the green marble floors are heated and the bathroom has a 13-head shower (still in the bathroom but no longer functioning - a Jacuzzi tub has been installed). The tower room has a king-size bed and sitting area.

Italian Suite

We explored the Castle's many rooms including some of the other guest rooms.  Each guest room has its own unique theme.  The French Room has an unusual ornate fireplace.  

French Room

Four of the guest rooms are on the third floor.  This area also has the ballroom, a community room with a large sectional sofa and TV, and the spa facilities (steam room and sauna).  

Ballroom

Next stop, the rooftop!  The view from here is great - especially at night when the stars and town lights are twinkling.  It's relaxing to sit in the hot tub and watch the view from this hilltop - rooftop vantage point.

Rooftop Hot Tub

The Henderson Park and West Main Hill Historic District is a Michigan Historic Site.

I may not be able to live like royalty but once in a while I can spend a night in the Castle where I can feel like a queen.  

RAMSDELL INN:

LOCATION: 399 River Street, Manistee, Michigan (USA)

(231) 398-7901

Website:  Ramsdell Inn

Built in 1891, this Victorian-style building was a bank in its former life. The three floors have been converted into a unique boutique hotel.

 Lobby & Gift Shop

The two floors above the lobby used to be offices. They have been converted into the 10 guest rooms (8 rooms and two suites - all with private baths). Keep in mind this is an old building and there is not an elevator – only stairs.

We stayed in the TJ Ramsdell Suite on the third floor.  

 Panoramic View of TJ Ramsdell Suite

Nook in Turrent & View from Nook

I love the preservation and redevelopment of this beautiful historic building from a bank to a hotel. In other words, it’s a place you can bank on to have a pleasant stay.

HEXAGON HOUSE B&B:

Hexagon House

Location: 760 6^th Street, Pentwater, Michigan (USA)

(231) 869-4102

Website:  Hexagon House

Built in 1870, this uniquely shaped (six-sided) house is relaxing retreat on three acres in the town of Pentwater. There are five guest rooms – four on the second floor and one on the main floor (the Cottage Rose Suite). We stayed in this room during our second visit here and I highly recommend it.

Cottage Rose Suite & Bathroom

Private Porch Area

The other four guest rooms are on the second floor. During our first visit here, we stayed in The Homestead Room. The second floor guest rooms have private doors that access the second floor porch.

Homestead Room & Porch

What I love about this B&B is its unique shape, outstanding service, and serene location.

THE CABOOSE INN:

Caboose No. 1

Caboose No. 2

LOCATION:   641 Conger Street, South Haven, Michigan (USA)

Guests check in at the Old Harbor Inn, 515 Williams Street, South Haven, Michigan, USA (about two blocks from the train depot).

(269) 637-8480

Website:  The Caboose Inn

Two refurbished cabooses (from 1920's) are located at the original train depot in downtown South Haven.  We stayed in Caboose #2.  Both cabooses have a queen size bed, small kitchenette area, screen porch, and an air conditioning unit.  

Inside Caboose No. 2 & Screen Porch

My hubby is a train enthusiast. So, it was inevitable that we would stay overnight in a caboose. The whistle of passing trains on the nearby tracks added to our train experience. We enjoyed eating our dinner in the screened-in porch area.  At night, we walked across the drawbridge and wandered around the waterfront.  When we returned, we were thankful for the A/C because we found the caboose got warm without it.

CHATEAU CHANTAL WINERY & INN:

Location:  15900 Re Devin, Traverse City, Michigan (USA)

Phone:  1-800-969-4009 or  (231) 223-4110

Website:  Chateau Chantal Winery & Inn 

In 1993, this French-style chateau opened as a winery and B&B. Ten years later, the building was expanded and the number of guest rooms increased from three to eleven (eight suites, two standard units, and Executive Apartment each with their own private bath and modern amenities). Room rates vary according to room choice, season/special events, and day of the week.

Chateau Chantal is a 65-acre estate located off Center Road (aka M-37) about 12 miles north of Traverse City in the Old Mission Peninsula. Rue Devin appears to be a wide paved driveway that goes up the hillside to the winery/inn. On the way up the hillside, you will pass by rows and rows of grape vines (about 38 acres of the property are dedicated to growing grapes).

The view from Chateau Chantal is one of the best in the Peninsula. From this hilltop location you can see both the East Arm and West Arm of Grand Traverse Bay.  

East Bay View

West bay View

We secured a reservation for the third weekend in May. Many of the guest rooms were named after painters. For instance, we stayed in the Cassatt Room which was named after Mary Cassatt (1844-1926) who was an American painter and printmaker.

Cassatt Room

In the morning, guests gather in the large Dining Room for a delicious buffet breakfast. During our visit, a gentleman by the name of Al provided background music on the grand piano. A corner of the dining room has a comfortable seating area with a fireplace and lots of games to play. 

Dining Room

Lounging Area

The staff at Chateau Chantal are superb, the view is great, and the accommodations are comfortable. I couldn’t ask for anything more.

If you don’t have time for an overnight stay, the winery’s Tasting Room is open to the public from 11:00ta.m.-5:00 p.m. There are indoor and outdoor seating areas to enjoy a glass of wine and the view. The Winery/Inn has handicap parking and an elevator.   

Tasting Room Seating Area - West Bay View

Old Mission Peninsula has numerous wineries to visit. If you are not into wine tasting, there are plenty of other things to see and do. I invite you to view my blog post on touring the Old Mission Peninsula by clicking on the following link:

Denice's Old Mission Peninsula Blog Post

BIRCH LODGE:

Lake Side - Porch

Porch View

Back View

Location: 21830 Birch Lodge Drive, Trout Lake, Michigan (USA)

(906) 569-3351

Website:  Brch Lodge

One of the things I enjoy finding and photographing are Michigan Historic Sites. That’s how I discovered the Birch Lodge. This historic structure was designated a Michigan Historic Site on November 20, 1987 and listed on the National Register of Historic Places on November 29, 1996. Imagine my delight when I discovered the Lodge is a Bed and Breakfast.

So what makes this place unique? Well, in its early years (about 1912-1917), this was a hospital and “Summer Resort Sanitarium” It was built on a 20-acre parcel of land along the shores of Trout Lake. Down a long hallway is an example of what a typical room might have looked like during that time.

Hallway in Side Wing of Lodge

Example of a room in the early years

According to Wikipedia, “The lodge was designed as a resort that combined outdoor recreation and medical health. When it opened, the lodge had cottages, a recreation room, boating equipment, and a dancing pavilion; it also boasted hospital facilities such as an operating room and a linen room. Six structures are on the property: the main lodge, three frame utility buildings that were once cabins, and two log cabins.”

Deborah (the owner) was very welcoming and gave us a tour of the lodge. It was built by Dr. Edgar D. Ford. Unfortunately, he died before the lodge opened in 1912. From 1918-1922, the building was used by the mounted State Constabulary (forerunner of the state police).  Their horses were housed in the barn behind the building. The next owners were Charles and Estelle Moore. They purchased the Birch Lodge with the idea of creating "a first class resort." Over the years, the lodge has had a number of owners with the most recent being the current owners who purchased the property in 2010.

Bill and Deborah (the current owners) have worked hard to restore the property into a lovely and relaxing place to stay. We spent the night in the second floor Lakeside Suite.    

Lakeside Suite

Another Guest Room

At 8:30 a.m., we arrive in the dining room for breakfast which consisted of omelets, hash browns, toast, and fresh fruit.

I don’t think there are any ghosts here but if you walk down that long hallway late at night ...

BIG BAY LIGHTHOUSE:

LOCATION 3 Lighthouse Road, Big Bay, Michigan (USA)

(906) 345-9957

Website:  Big Bay Lighthouse B&B

For more details on staying at Big Bay and other lighthouses, I invite you to view my blog post on “Lighthouse B&B’s” by clicking on the following link:

Denice's Blog Post - Lighthouse B&B's

SEA SUITES:

LOCATION: 219 North Union Street, Douglas, Michigan, USA

(269) 426-0381

Website:  Sea Suites

For more details about Sea Suites and other Boats & Breakfasts, I invite you to view my blog post on “Floating B&B’s” by clicking on the following link:   
Denice's Bog Post - Floating B&B's

If you are interested in discovering other great B&B's, I invite you to view my blog post on "Michigan B&B's" by clicking on the following link:

Denice's Blog Post - Michigan B&B's

I’ll keep updating this post as I find new and unique places to stay in Michigan.  In the meantime, safe travels!

Since opinions, preferences, and budgets vary, I recommend checking a trusted travel source for current reviews.