Before Detroit was a glimmer in the imagination of European explorers' minds, the river flowed along banks rich in millennia of Native American history. Later with its new name, the Rivière Détroit witnessed the fierce battles of the Ottawa and the British. It saw Ransom Eli Olds’ factory burn in 1901, generations board four-story boats destined for Boblo Island, and the skyline of Detroit rise, fall, and rise again. It has hosted dignitaries, visionaries, rockstars, military fleets, and millions of families over the centuries. Dripping with history from prohibition smuggling to the pleasure yachts of industrial titans, the Detroit River is an irreplaceable part of the city’s history. Detroit History Tours is honored to invite you to join us for a legendary sail on board the eighty five foot long tall ship, The Appledore IV. With a seventy six foot mast and over 3,500 square feet of sails, The Appledore IV has majestically sailed the Great Lakes for nearly forty years.
On board you’ll be greeted by the Captain and crew of this beautiful sailing vessel, along with your history tour guide. You will depart from the Port of Detroit and sail up the river and under the Ambassador Bridge as our award winning guides share the stories of the city's skyscrapers, the wars for control of the river, and the secret hiding spots of mischief makers.
Together with the crew you’ll raise the mainsail, cut through the waves, and learn the history of tall ships on Michigan waters. We will glide past Belle Isle State Park to see the shining beacon of the Livingstone Lighthouse, learn the history of Belle Isle’s bridges, and glimpse the anchor of the ill fated Edmund Fitzegarald before heading back to dock with a set of once in a lifetime memories.
The captain has extended an invitation for you to bring your own alcoholic drinks and snacks on-board, however, no glass bottles or glassware may be used.
Parking is at the ticket holders expense. There are several choices but the two most convenient are Port Authority Parking and The Miller Garage.