Door County Historic Cottage Row & Strawberry Islands Cruise

Exploring Door County’s Coastal Charm: A Review of the Cottage Row & Strawberry Islands Cruise

If you’re seeking a way to combine scenic beauty, wildlife sightings, and a touch of local history, the Door County Historic Cottage Row & Strawberry Islands Cruise offers a delightful experience. While we haven’t personally taken this cruise, the detailed reviews, official descriptions, and our own understanding of what makes a good boat tour in this region help paint a clear picture of what travelers can expect.

This cruise promises a lively, informative journey that balances stunning vistas and engaging stories. We love how it features beautiful shore homes along Cottage Row, a historic and visually captivating area, and the chance to see white pelicans and cormorants at the Strawberry Islands — a rare treat for nature lovers. Plus, the stop at Eagle Bluff Lighthouse for photos is simply a bonus.

One thing to consider is that, at just 1.5 hours, the tour is relatively short — perfect for a quick sightseeing fix, but perhaps not enough for those wanting an in-depth exploration. Also, with no food or drinks included, you might want to plan for a snack before or after. This tour is ideal for visitors looking for a light, scenic excursion that mixes history, wildlife, and picturesque views — especially suited for families, first-time visitors, or anyone wanting a gentle cruise experience.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Beautiful Shore Homes: Get a close-up view of historic cottages along Cottage Row, a favorite Door County feature for over a century.
• Wildlife Watching: Spot white pelicans and cormorants, especially when exploring the Strawberry Islands, making it a must for bird enthusiasts.
• Historic Landmarks: Learn about local landmarks like Chambers Island, Svens Bluff, and Camp Menagha, gaining insight into the area’s past.
• Photo Opportunities: Stop offshore of Eagle Bluff Lighthouse for memorable pictures of one of the region’s iconic beacons.
• Expert Guides: Narration by lively, knowledgeable guides enhances the experience, making history and wildlife come alive.
• Good Value: At $45 per person for 90 minutes, it offers a substantial taste of Door County’s scenic and historic appeal.

An In-Depth Look at the Cruise Experience

The Itinerary: What You’ll See and Do

The cruise begins at Fish Creek Scenic Boat Tours’ office, where a check-in 15 minutes early ensures a smooth start. Once onboard, you’ll cruise along the shoreline, marveling at the impressive homes along Cottage Row. These cottages, some dating back over a hundred years, are a testament to the area’s long-standing appeal as a summer retreat for wealthy Chicagoans and locals alike. The guides do a good job of weaving stories about these historic structures, which adds an enriching layer to what might otherwise be just pretty houses.

Turning west into open waters, you’ll head toward the Strawberry Islands. Here, the chance to spot white pelicans and cormorants is a highlight. These large, distinctive birds are most visible during warmer months, and their presence signals a healthy ecosystem. The islands themselves are scattered and rugged, offering a natural contrast to the more cultivated shoreline.

As the boat threads between Adventure and Little Strawberry Islands, you’ll learn about Chambers Island—famous for its lighthouse and as a historical hub—and what makes it uniquely significant. Although the tour doesn’t include a visit to the lighthouse itself, the stop nearby allows for excellent photo opportunities.

The return leg features a stop offshore of Eagle Bluff Lighthouse. This classic lighthouse offers an excellent vantage point for photos, especially if the weather cooperates. Many reviews mention the impressive views and the chance to capture memorable images of this historic beacon.

The Human and Natural History

One of the tour’s strengths lies in its storytelling. Guides share tales about Svens Bluff—a historically significant area—and Camp Menagha, a girls’ summer camp from the 1900s. Learning about these sites provides context that elevates the simple act of sightseeing into an understanding of the area’s social fabric.

From the reviews, it’s clear that knowledgeable guides make a real difference. “Our guide Ben was knowledgeable and provided a full journey of narration,” says one traveler, highlighting how storytelling can turn a routine boat ride into a memorable experience.

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Wildlife and Scenic Beauty

The wildlife sightings are a definite draw. Watching white pelicans soar overhead and cormorants perched on rocky islands offers a window into local ecosystems. The scenery along the cobblestone shores of Peninsula Park and the surrounding water is simply stunning, especially on a clear day. The contrast between the lush greenery and the rugged shoreline makes for memorable views.

Practical Considerations

The 90-minute duration strikes a good balance — long enough to see a variety of sights without feeling rushed. Children are welcome but must be accompanied by adults, and the tour might not suit those prone to seasickness, as some reviews mention rough waters.

Since food and drinks are not included, travelers should bring essentials like sunscreen, hats, water, and a camera. The boat is described as clean and modern, adding to the comfort. The tour runs most afternoons, but it’s wise to check availability and book in advance, especially during peak season.

Pricing and Value

At $45, the tour offers reasonable value considering the scenic vistas and educational content. It’s a relatively short experience, but one packed with sights and stories. The inclusion of live commentary makes it more engaging than a simple sightseeing cruise, and many reviews praise the friendly, professional staff for their informative narration.

What the Reviews Say

Feedback is generally positive. Travelers appreciate the knowledgeable guides and stunning views. One reviewer called the guide “normative and personable,” adding that it made the experience come to life. Another noted that even in bad weather, the captain handled things well, which speaks to the professionalism of the crew.

However, some found the narration a little inconsistent, with one reviewer mentioning too much detail about boat-building rather than local history. This highlights the importance of having a guide who can tailor the commentary to the group’s interests.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

This cruise is best suited for families, first-time visitors, or anyone wanting a gentle introduction to Door County’s landscapes and stories. It’s perfect for those who enjoy wildlife viewing, historic architecture, and scenic water-based excursions.

If you’re looking for an immersive, lengthy tour, you might find this a bit too brief. Conversely, if you want a relaxed, visually rewarding experience with a touch of education, this is ideal.

Final Thoughts

The Door County Historic Cottage Row & Strawberry Islands Cruise offers a wonderful snapshot of the region’s charm. It’s a straightforward, well-priced adventure that combines stunning scenery, birdwatching, and stories about local history. The knowledgeable guides and beautiful vistas make it a worthwhile outing for anyone eager to experience the area’s coastal beauty without a long commitment.

Though it doesn’t include food or a visit inside the lighthouse, the opportunity to see historic cottages and watch seabirds in their natural habitat provides a memorable, photo-worthy experience. Plus, the short duration makes it easy to slot into a busy itinerary.

If you appreciate a mix of natural beauty and storytelling, and you’re in Fish Creek or nearby, this cruise is a lovely way to spend an afternoon—and a good value for the price.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, children are welcome, but they must be accompanied by an adult. Keep in mind, the waters can be a little choppy, so it may not be ideal for very young children prone to seasickness.

Do I need to bring anything?
It’s a good idea to bring a hat, sunscreen, camera, and comfortable clothing. Since food and drinks aren’t included, you might want to bring a snack or water.

Can I see the Chambers Island Lighthouse?
No, the tour does not stop at Chambers Island Lighthouse, but you’ll learn about it and get good views of the area.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour can go ahead in light rain or overcast conditions, but rough waters might lead to rescheduling. Some reviews mention that captains handle rough weather well.

How long is the tour?
The cruise lasts approximately 1.5 hours, making it a perfect short excursion that won’t take up your whole day.

Is there parking nearby?
Yes, the tour check-in is at the Fish Creek Scenic Boat Tours office, which is accessible and convenient for those traveling by car.

In all, this cruise offers a balanced mix of scenic beauty, wildlife, and stories, making it a fine choice for travelers wanting a taste of Door County’s maritime charm.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby