Themed & Specialty Soo Locks Boat Tours | Sault Ste. Marie, MI
Experience the thrill of the Soo Locks with a cruise you’ll never forget!
Start your Upper Peninsula adventure on the St. Marys River with one of our themed and specialty cruises filled with family fun, local history, Great Lakes freighters, and exciting maritime experiences. Whether you’re here for dinner cruise, live music, storytelling, hands‑on learning, or seasonal celebrations, every cruise offers something memorable and unique, Sault Ste. Marie.
WE ARE EXCITED TO ANNOUNCE - DINNER CRUISES ARE BACK!
Looking for a unique dining experience in Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan? Enjoy an unforgettable evening aboard Original Soo Locks Boat Tours as you dine on the waters of the St. Marys River while taking in spectacular views of the Soo Locks, Great Lakes freighters, the International Bridge, and the historic waterfront.
Our approximately 2.5-hour Dinner Cruise features great food, light narration, subtle background music, and a relaxing atmosphere that's perfect for couples, families, visitors, and groups looking for one of the most unique things to do in Michigan's Upper Peninsula.
Guests will enjoy an evening meal while cruising the St. Marys River, passing through the Soo Locks, traveling beneath the International Bridge, and experiencing the sights and sounds of one of North America's busiest waterways.
Dinner Cruises are available for motor coach groups, private charters, corporate outings, family gatherings, reunions, and special events. Whether you're celebrating a special occasion or planning a group outing, our crew can help create a memorable experience tailored to your needs.
Dinner Cruises are open to the public on select dates throughout the season. Please call for available dates, times, pricing, group accommodations, menu options, and reservations.
Reservations are required at least 48 hours before the cruise. Cancellations are honored up to 24 hours before departure and must be made by 4:00 PM on the day before the cruise.
Pricing
- Adults: starting at $65
- Children: $40
- Bus & group discounts available
- See our Schedule Page for Times & Updates
- Reservations by phone required.
Call 906‑632‑6301 to book your Dinner Cruise.
Spring Boatnerd Cruise - Sunset Cruise
Saturday, May 29th, 2027
Departure Time: 4:30 PM Adults $30, Kids $10
Set sail on a 2½–3-hour Spring Boatnerd Cruise, scheduled in the evening for the perfect chance to enjoy calm river views and, when the weather allows, an amazing sunset on the St. Mary’s River. Our carefully planned routes bring you up close to Great Lakes freighters—a perfect experience for photographers, families, Boatnerds, and Ship Junkies alike. Whether we catch one freighter or several, there’s no better place for thrilling entertainment and a little Freighter Chasing than while cruising through the Soo Locks and along the St. Mary's River.
Enjoy a fun, relaxed atmosphere featuring:
- Prime freighter viewing just yards away
- Light appetizers, pizza, and soft drinks courtesy of our generous sponsors
- Special guests sharing maritime stories and ship facts
- Games, local prizes, and giveaways
- A nicely heated main cabin for those cool spring evenings
- Topside viewing available—bring an extra layer to stay comfortable
- Fun for the whole family, with something for every age
Freighter traffic can vary, and while it’s rare not to see a ship, being on the water with fellow Boatnerds is half the fun. After all — we’re in the same boat!
Our Boatnerd Cruises fill up quickly, so we recommend reserving your tickets early. Bring a friend, bring your camera, fun for all ages! — the more Boatnerds on board, the better!
TROPICAL CRUISE
June 19, 2027, All-Day Event
Join us for a Tropical Summer Kickoff Cruise in your best Hawaiian shirts, sundresses, sarongs, and floral hats! Let's have some fun and kick off the summer together!
ENGINEERS WEEKEND - FRIDAY JUNE 25th - SUNDAY JUNE 27th
Friday, June 25th - Engineers Day Appreciation Special
ADULTS TICKETS $28.00 CHILDREN TICKETS $10.00
Easy Online Tickets! Use promo code ENGINEERSDAY
Tickets are good throughout Engineers Weekend only!
This is an all-day event.
Departure Times 10am, 11am, 1pm, 2pm, 3:30pm, & 4:30pm
Engineers Day is one of Sault Ste. Marie's most popular annual traditions, celebrating the history, engineering, and people behind the world-famous Soo Locks. Visitors can enjoy exhibits, family activities, local vendors, community events, and unique opportunities to learn about one of North America's busiest shipping corridors on the Great Lakes.
In recent years, access to parts of the Soo Locks has occasionally been limited because of construction, security requirements, and operational needs. Even when some areas are unavailable, visitors can still enjoy excellent views from the Soo Locks Visitor Center, Canal Park, observation areas, community exhibits, local vendors, and the many festivities that make Engineers Day a favorite Sault Ste. Marie tradition.
To help celebrate this special event, Original Soo Locks Boat Tours plans to continue offering our Engineers Day Appreciation Special. It's a unique opportunity to experience the Soo Locks from the water while enjoying close-up views of Great Lakes freighters and lock operations.
Details for the 2027 Engineers Day Appreciation Special will be announced as they become available. Please check back for updates.
Engineers Day has become a full Engineers Weekend — a three‑day maritime celebration for the whole family. The weekend also coincides with the International Bridge Walk, Little Sailors Day, and a variety of activities throughout downtown Sault Ste. Marie. [originalso...ktours.com], [saultstemarie.com]
Saturday, June 26th - Little Sailors Day
KIDS RIDE FREE!
10 a.m. to 3:30 p.m
All-day event, no reservation needed, first-come, first-served.
Calling all aspiring Little Sailors! Join us for a full day of hands‑on fun at Original Soo Locks Boat Tours, where kids ages 5–17 ride FREE (two kids per adult). This family‑favorite event transforms the waterfront into a lively maritime playground filled with learning, laughter, and unforgettable adventures.
This event brings families and the local community together for one big day of maritime discovery, giving kids and young adults a chance to explore our region’s rich maritime industry and history in a fun, interactive way.
Some of our main features include:
- Kids Ride FREE on the Soo Locks Boat Tours (two kids per adult)
- Tour the Soo Marine Supply Boat Ojibway
- Michigan National Guard with boat rides & live demonstrations
- A chance to win a ride out to a freighter on the Western Great Lakes Pilot Boat
- Many more interactive stations, partners, and surprises throughout the day
Kids can enjoy a full lineup of sailor‑for‑a‑day activities:
- Throwing life rings
- Handling lines like a crew member
- Learning water safety
- Designing fleet flags
- Meeting our captains and crew
- Winning prizes and taking home souvenirs
Special Guests & Community Partners May Include:
- Interlake Steamship Company
- Western Great Lakes Pilot Association
- Soo Locks Children’s Museum
- Michigan National Guard
- U.S. Army Corps of Engineers
- Sault Tribe Law Enforcement
- Many other local organizations and community partners
Additional fun throughout the day includes:
- Face painting
- Build‑your‑own sundae bar
- Games, demonstrations, and interactive displays
Held during Engineers Weekend, this event adds even more excitement to a perfect time to visit Sault Ste. Marie. Last year, over 1,000 visitors joined us — and this year promises to be even bigger and better!
Don’t miss this unforgettable family event! Little Sailors Day is the perfect chance for kids to explore the water, learn new skills, and enjoy a fun‑filled maritime adventure.
For more info: Little Sailors Day
Cruise With a Cause
Soo Locks Children’s Museum Charity Cruise
Sunday June 27th
Join us for a family fun-filled Fundraising Event! Let's make this special!
Departure Time 4:30
Join us for a heartwarming, family-friendly fundraising cruise as we come together to support the Soo Locks Children’s Museum—a brand‑new space dedicated to creativity, hands‑on learning, and inspiring young minds right here in Sault Ste. Marie.
As we sail the St. Marys River, you’ll enjoy prime views of Great Lakes freighters, beautiful waterfront scenery, and the one‑of‑a‑kind experience of being in the Soo Locks. It’s the perfect way to wrap up Engineers Weekend with your family, your friends, and your community.
Best of all?
This event is by donation, and 100% of the proceeds go directly to the Soo Locks Children’s Museum to help spark curiosity and imagination for generations of young explorers.
Check back soon for more details and exciting plans for this event!
2027 TWIN SAULTS - FIREWORKS CRUISES — JULY 1st & 4th
Celebrate two incredible nights on the St. Marys River as Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan, and Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario, lights up the sky with their annual Canada Day and 4th of July fireworks shows. These back‑to‑back evenings are some of the most exciting events in the Twin Saults, and there’s no better way to experience them than on the water.
Our special discounted fireworks cruises make it easy for families to enjoy the celebration from the best vantage point — right on the river, where the fireworks reflect across the water and the views stretch across both cities. Whether you join us for July 1st, July 4th, or both, you’ll enjoy an unforgettable night of music, glow‑sticks, summertime fun, and the best views of the fireworks in Sault Ste. Marie.
Canada Day - July 1st
Departs at 9:15 PM $18 Adult, $12 Kids
Celebrate Canada Day with a DYNAMITE night on the water!
Enjoy an approximately 1½‑hour cruise as we take in a gorgeous summer sunset, watch the river come alive with excitement, and then settle into the middle of the action for Canada’s spectacular fireworks show over the St. Marys River.
Come celebrate with our Canadian friends — Sault, Ontario, really puts on quite a show! You’ll have unbeatable views as we gather along the Southwest Pier of the Soo Locks, with the best views on the water. Enjoy great music, glow sticks, light‑up accessories, and a fun, festive atmosphere. Dress up in anything bright and celebratory—light‑up hats, glow necklaces, fun glasses, flashing stickers—and enjoy an unforgettable night on the river!
Key Notes
- Approx. 1½‑hour tour with fireworks viewing
- Music, glow accessories, and a fun Canada Day atmosphere
- Snacks & drinks available onboard
- Limited seating — reserve early for the best views
- Cancellations must be made at least 24 hours before the event for a refund
Independence Day - July 4th
Departs at 9:15 PM $18 Adult, $12 Kids
Get ready to HAVE A BLAST with our smoking‑hot 4th of July offer!
Enjoy an approximately 1½‑hour cruise as you take in the beautiful summer sunset, watch the river come alive with holiday excitement, and maybe even catch a freighter passing by before the fireworks begin. We’ll settle right into the middle of the action for an unforgettable fireworks show over the St. Marys River.
Celebrate Soo Locks style with great music and festive red, white & blue touches. Dress up with light‑up hats, glow necklaces, fun glasses, stickers — anything spirited and bright — as we park alongside the Southwest Pier of the Soo Locks to enjoy the fireworks with the best view on the water!
Key Notes
- Approx. 1½‑hour tour with fireworks viewing
- Music, glow accessories, festive 4th of July atmosphere, and the best views on the water
- Snacks & drinks available onboard
- Limited seating — reserve early for the best experience
- Cancellations must be made at least 24 hours before the event for a refund
Now Offering Premium Firework Dinner Cruises!
Fireworks Dinner Cruises — July 1st & July 4th
Departs at 7:00 PM $75 Adult, $45 Kids
Take your celebration to the next level with our Premium Dinner Fireworks Cruise, offered on both July 1st and July 4th. Enjoy a relaxing evening on the beautiful St. Mary’s River with locks & sunset views, a delicious catered dinner, and early boarding before the standard fireworks cruises depart. After dinner, we’ll transition seamlessly into the fireworks portion of the evening as we take prime position along the Southwest Pier of the Soo Locks — the best viewing location on the river. This enhanced experience provides extra time to unwind, enjoy the scenery, and fully appreciate the festive atmosphere. It’s the perfect way to combine a peaceful river cruise with a front‑row fireworks show, creating a memorable holiday evening you’ll be talking about long after the last spark fades.
Firework Dinner Cruises Includes:
- Early 7:00 PM departure
- Freshly prepared catered dinner
- Reserved seating
- Music and a relaxed summer atmosphere
- Gorgeous sunset views on the St. Marys River
- Full fireworks viewing from the best spot on the water
- Approx. 2½–3‑hour experience
Seats are limited — this is our most exclusive holiday offering.
Call For Reservations: (906) 632‑6301
SUPERHERO DAY
July 10, All-Day Event
Calling all superheroes! Suit up, set sail, and save the day! Unleash your inner Avenger for an epic adventure on the St. Mary's River. Unite with family and friends for a bold journey through the incredible Soo Locks and experience a day of heroism, bravery, and super-sized fun!
July Boatnerd Cruise - Sunset Cruise
Saturday, July 17th, 2027
Departure Time: 7:30 PM Adults $30, Kids $10
Set sail on a 2½–3-hour July Boatnerd Cruise, timed for the warm summer evenings when the St. Marys River is alive with activity. With comfortable temperatures and long daylight hours, this cruise is perfect for Freighter Chasing, photography, and enjoying the Soo Locks in peak-season style.
Our carefully planned summer route brings you up close to Great Lakes freighters, giving Boatnerds, Ship Junkies, families, and first-time visitors unforgettable views and photo opportunities. Whether we see one ship or several, there’s no better place for warm-weather maritime fun than out on the water.
Enjoy a lively, summer atmosphere featuring:
- Prime freighter viewing just yards away
- Light appetizers, pizza, and soft drinks courtesy of our generous sponsors
- Special guests with ship stories, maritime history, and Q&A
- Games, local prizes, and giveaways
- Topside viewing at its best in the warm summer breeze
- Fun for the whole family, with something for every age
Freighter traffic can vary, and while it’s rare not to see a ship, being on the water with fellow Boatnerds is half the fun. After all — we’re in the same boat!
Our Boatnerd Cruises fill up quickly, so we recommend reserving your tickets early. Bring a friend, bring your camera, fun for all ages! — the more Boatnerds on board, the better!
WESTERN CRUISE
July 17, 2027, All-Day Event
Yeehaw! Saddle up and mosey on down to the hoedown cruise. Don’t forget your hat and boots, and be ready to say 'Howdy' to the crew. Step aboard for a rootin'-tootin' adventure filled with Western tunes played between our engaging narrations. Perfect for all ages, this cruise promises a delightful journey through time. Put on your cowboy hat and prairie dress, and do the sidestep with us on a rootin'-tootin' adventure, celebrating the iconic sounds and styles of the Wild West.
Great Lakes Discovery Cruise
TBD 2027
Original Soo Locks Boat Tours and Inland Seas Education Association are proud to partner to bring you the Great Lakes Discovery Cruise
Are you curious what lies beneath the surface of the Great Lakes? Have you ever wondered what it means to be a scientist, sailor, or steward of the Great Lakes? Join us on a Great Lakes Discovery sail for a three-hour, hands-on adventure aboard the 77-foot schooner Inland Seas to find out!
Throughout this adventure, you’ll act as a scientist by collecting fish, plankton, and organisms from the bottom of the lake using REAL scientific equipment. You’ll also get to try your hand at some on-board water chemistry and learn how scientists monitor the health of the Great Lakes. During your sail, you’ll help raise the sails and even try your hand at steering the ship!
This program is appropriate for learners of all ages, so bring along your family and friends, and we’re sure everyone will learn something new and feel more connected to the Great Lakes.
Reserve Your Tickets Online Now
PIRATE DAY
JULY 24, 2027 All-Day Event
Ahoy, mateys! Get ready for a swashbucklin’ adventure like no other! Join us for a day of pirate fun as we sail down the river and hunt for hidden treasures. Dress up in your finest pirate attire and dive into the action! Prizes and riches to be had! Yo-ho-ho! Don’t miss out on the fun! So gather your crew and join us for an unforgettable pirate adventure on the river.
Rock Around the Locks - George Snider
Saturday, July 24, 2027
Departure: 7:30 PM
Tickets: $50 per person
Enjoy a 2½-hour sunset cruise through the Soo Locks featuring live music from The Gentleman George Band & the Sugar Island Gang! Your ticket includes hors d'oeuvres, pizza, soft drinks, raffles, prizes, and unforgettable views of the St. Marys River.
• Live Music • Lock Tour • Sunset Cruise • Prizes • Pizza • Complimentary hors d’oeuvres
Departing from Original Soo Locks Boat Tours, Dock #1, Sault Ste. Marie.
Proudly sponsored by the Sugar Island Historical Society & Gentleman George Products. Reserve early—seats are limited!
Reserve Your Tickets Online Now
GROOVY 1960s
July 31, 2027 All-Day Event
Peace, love, and rock ‘n’ roll! Dig up your psychedelic patterns, bell-bottoms, mini skirts, and go-go boots for a swinging good time. Step aboard and be transported back to the colorful 60s era, where every moment is filled with lively 60s music played between our engaging narration. Perfect for all ages, this tour promises a delightful journey through time, celebrating the iconic sounds and styles that defined the 60s. Who wouldn't want to dress up like the 60s?
THE 70'S FLASHBACK
AUGUST 7, 2027 All-Day Event
Channel your inner dancing queen and groove through the Soo Locks! Go full 70's in your disco sequins, oversized sunglasses, flowing sleeves, and high-waisted flares. Come glammed up and glitter-ready for a far-out cruise on the St. Mary's River!
BACK TO THE '80s
AUGUST 14, 2027 All-Day Event
Sail back in time for the ultimate 1980s costume cruise! Let that retro big hair reach sky high! Dig out your neon, leg warmers, and scrunchies! Take a chill pill and do some maxin' and relaxin' to some rad 80s tunes. You'll have a totally bodacious time as the Soo Locks meet the boom box!
COSTUME DAY
AUGUST 21, 2027 All-Day Event
Dress up in whatever sparks joy for you! Spooky, silly, glamorous, cozy, classic, or out of this world! This is a theme cruise like no other-no categories, no pressure. Just show up in whatever feels the most fun! Choose your look, claim your vibe, and ride it through the Soo Locks.
Celebrate the NFL Season Kickoff!
TBD 2027
Show off your love for your NFL team by wearing your team's colors! Participants will receive discounted tickets. Don't miss out on this exciting opportunity to celebrate the start of the season in style!
906 Day
Sept 6, 2027 All-Day Event
Welcome to da UP, Eh! Dress like a Yooper on our honorary day of the year. Join us in celebrating the unique spirit of the Upper Peninsula! Come in your best Yooper outfit and get a discount on your ticket!
Rock Around The Locks with One Can Short
Friday, September 11, at 5:30 PM
Set sail on a musical adventure with Original Soo Locks Boat Tours during Rock Around the Locks! On Friday, September 18, at 5:30 PM, enjoy a live performance by One Can Short as you cruise through the Soo Locks on a relaxing 2 to 2.5-hour tour.
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Classic rock, country & oldies on the water
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Scenic sunset views of the Soo Locks
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Complimentary hors d’oeuvres
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Tickets: $45 per person
Departing from Dock #1 at 1157 E Portage Ave, Sault Ste. Marie,
Reserve Your Tickets Online Now
Don’t miss your chance to unwind, groove, and enjoy one of the best summer experiences in the Sault!
Fall Boatnerd Cruise - Sunset Cruise
Friday, September 17, 2027
Departure Time: 5:30 PM Adults $30, Kids $10
Join us for the Fall Boatnerd Cruise, our last Boatnerd adventure of the season! This special 2½–3-hour evening cruise combines freighter excitement with the beauty of autumn on the St. Marys River. As the leaves begin to change, the shoreline comes alive with color — creating an unforgettable backdrop for freighter photography and evening ship‑spotting.
Our carefully planned fall route brings you up close to Great Lakes freighters, offering incredible views during one of the most scenic times of year. Whether we spot one ship or several, the mix of freighters, fall colors, and crisp, fresh air makes this cruise a guest favorite.
Enjoy a cozy, autumn atmosphere featuring:
- Prime freighter viewing with colorful fall scenery
- Light appetizers, pizza, and soft drinks courtesy of our generous sponsors
- Special guests sharing maritime stories, facts, and Q&A
- Games, local prizes, and giveaways
- A nicely heated main cabin to keep you comfortable on cool fall evenings
- Topside viewing available—just bring a warm layer for the fresh autumn air
- Fun for the whole family during one of the most beautiful times on the river
Plus, fall is your last chance to enjoy many downtown Sault Ste. Marie shops before they wind down for the season—perfect for making a full day of your visit.
Freighter traffic can vary, and while it’s rare not to see a ship, being on the water with fellow Boatnerds is half the fun. After all — we’re in the same boat!
Our Boatnerd Cruises fill up quickly, so we recommend reserving your tickets early. Bring a friend, bring your camera, fun for all ages! — the more Boatnerds on board, the better!
Bark Around The Locks - Chippewa County Animal Shelter
Saturday, October 2, 2027
Departure Time 5:00 PM - Donation Pet Supplies or $5 Minimum
Set sail for a cause! Join us for Bark Around the Locks – a benefit cruise for the Chippewa County Animal Shelter!
Sponsored by Original Soo Locks Boat Tours and Sault Sainte Marie Dominos Pizza!
Sat, October 3, 2026 • 5 PM
(Please arrive 15 minutes early)
Enjoy a cruise on the St Mary's River and Pizza courtesy of Dominos Pizza!
Original Soo Locks Boat Tours ~ 1157 East Portage Ave ~ Sault, MI 49783
Admission = Pet Supplies Donation OR $5 cash
Most Needed Items:
Cat food
Dog food
Clay cat litter
Laundry soap
Dishwasher soap
Bleach
Paper towels
Soft dog treats
Soft pate cat food
Help shelter pets & enjoy a night on the water!