Why the Power Island Jet Ski Tour is Our Most Popular Experience

Overview: Explore Power Island on TC Watersports’ most popular guided jet ski tour. Safe, scenic, and packed with adventure — book now for an unforgettable ride across Traverse City’s most stunning waters!
Some experiences in Traverse City are more than just fun — they stick with you. That’s exactly what happens on the Power Island Jet Ski Tour. It’s not just the speed or the views. It’s the feeling of gliding across the bay, wind in your face, destination unknown, until suddenly — there it is.
A quiet, forested island rising from the water like a secret.
Power Island isn’t a place most visitors get to see up close. It’s tucked into West Grand Traverse Bay, and only accessible by boat or personal watercraft. That’s part of what makes this tour so special: it gives people the chance to explore something unexpected.
A Ride With a Reward
The route to Power Island is a mix of thrill and calm — open water stretches where you can pick up speed, and quieter zones where the scenery does most of the work. On a clear day, the water takes on that signature northern Michigan glow, shifting between green and blue as the shoreline fades behind you.
Reaching the island is the highlight. It’s not just a pass-by moment — you’ll actually stop and take it in. Step off the ski. Skip some rocks. Snap a few photos. Or just sit back and take a breather. It’s peaceful and wild at the same time.
What to Expect
This is a guided tour with a small group — up to 10 people max, riding in pairs or solo. It’s designed to be friendly for first-timers but still fun for those who’ve ridden before. A short safety briefing kicks things off, and the guides stay with you the whole time to offer tips, set the pace, and make sure everyone’s having a good time.
Each jet ski is equipped with a life jacket, fire extinguisher, and a small storage bin for things like sunglasses or a towel (though it’s not waterproof, so pack accordingly).
Why It’s a Favorite
Ask around, and you’ll hear the same thing: people just like this one. Some enjoy the scenery. Others are hooked on the freedom of being on the water. And more than a few have made it a yearly tradition while they’re in town.
At TC Watersports, we’ve seen the same faces come back summer after summer, sometimes with new friends in tow. There’s just something about this combination of motion, nature, and discovery that hits all the right notes.
A Note for Planners
If you’re thinking about trying the tour, know that it does fill up — especially on sunny weekends. Spots are limited to keep the group size small and the experience personal.
But whether it’s your first time exploring Traverse City by water or a return trip to your favorite island, there’s something grounding about making that journey again. Even when you know what’s coming, it still feels like a discovery.