Discover Traverse City’s Wineries in Style with the NON BUS Lincoln MKT Limousine Tour

Imagine cruising through the scenic Old Mission Peninsula in a sleek, private Lincoln MKT limousine—no crowded party buses, no uncomfortable third-row seats, just pure comfort and style. This 4 to 5-hour tour offers a chance to explore some of Michigan’s most celebrated wineries, including Chateau Chantal, Brys Estates, and Bowers Harbor, all while enjoying the company of your own group or a small, semi-private crowd. With pricing at $199 per person, it’s a surprisingly accessible way to indulge in the local wine scene without feeling rushed or lost in the crowd.

What makes this experience a real winner? First, the luxury vehicle elevates your day from standard sightseeing to a true VIP experience. Second, the personalized guidance from real wine connoisseurs, like Magic Mike, means you’re not just riding along—you’re getting expert recommendations, insider tips, and an authentic taste of Traverse City’s wine culture.

A couple of points to consider: this tour is most appealing to those who prefer premium, private transportation over group bus settings. If you’re seeking a more relaxed pace and meaningful wine tasting experiences, this could be a perfect fit. However, be aware that wines and food are not included in the ticket price, so you’ll want to budget for additional tastings or meals if desired. This tour is especially suited for couples, small groups, or wine enthusiasts who want to avoid the hustle and enjoy a tailored, intimate tasting adventure.

Key Points

Luxury Transportation: Travel in a Lincoln MKT limousine, skipping the typical bus for VIP comfort.
Personalized Experience: Guides are wine experts, offering tailored recommendations rather than generic tours.
Stunning Views: Enjoy panoramic vistas from high points like Chateau Chantal and along Grand Traverse Bay.
Flexible Group Sizes: Most groups are small, but larger parties may be split into multiple vehicles for a semi-private feel.
Wineries Visited: 4 top wineries on Old Mission Peninsula, including Brys Estates and Bonobo Winery.
Cost and Extras: $199 per person, with wine and food purchases billed separately at each stop.

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A Closer Look at the Traverse City Wine Tour Experience

What to Expect at the Start

The tour begins at 303 E State St in Traverse City, a convenient location for travelers staying downtown or nearby. From there, you’ll step into a luxurious Lincoln MKT limousine—a vehicle that screams sophistication but also offers plenty of space and comfort. Because this is a non-bus experience, the mood is more relaxed, allowing for easy conversation and enjoying the scenery.

The maximum group size of 18 ensures a relatively intimate atmosphere, but most groups tend to stay smaller—around 5 or 6—giving plenty of room to move around and chat with your guide, who is a real wine enthusiast. This personal touch means your experience is more about quality than quantity, with stops designed to maximize tasting and viewing opportunities.

Wineries on the Itinerary

The tour covers four wineries on the Old Mission Peninsula, renowned for their high-quality wines and stunning vineyard views. These include Hawthorne Vineyards, Chateau Chantal, Brys Estates, and Bowers Harbor Vineyards. Each stop lasts around 50 minutes to an hour, giving you ample time to explore, taste, and soak in the atmosphere.

Hawthorne Vineyards is appreciated for its reds and whites, and guests can buy flights or bottles during their visit. One traveler mentioned, “we loved the way the guide explained the wines and shared recommendations,” emphasizing the educational aspect of this tour.

Chateau Chantal, perched atop a high point, offers breathtaking views of East and West Grand Traverse Bay, which you’ll see from the winery itself. According to reviews, “the vistas are worth the trip alone,” and many appreciate the chance to sip wine while gazing across the landscape.

Brys Estates is especially popular—known for its “Froze” drink, a frozen wine slushie that gets rave reviews. One guest noted, “Brys was definitely a highlight, and I loved the relaxed atmosphere and friendly staff.”

Bowers Harbor is a historic winery, established in 1991, offering a taste of Michigan’s early wine-making days along with excellent wines.

Enjoying the Views and Local Flavor

Beyond the wineries, the tour includes a scenic drive along Grand Traverse Bay, where you can enjoy views of the water stretching 32 miles long, separated from Lake Michigan by the Leelanau Peninsula. It’s the kind of sight that makes you want to pause and soak in the fresh air and panoramic beauty.

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The Personal Touch and Flexibility

What sets this tour apart is the guides’ knowledge—they’re not just chauffeurs but passionate wine enthusiasts who can recommend wines based on your preferences. Guests frequently praise the “real wine recommendations” and “knowledgeable guides” that make the tour feel more like a curated experience than a cookie-cutter activity.

With group discounts and flexible stops, you can often customize your day. For instance, if you have a favorite winery or want more time at a specific stop, just let your guide know. This flexibility enhances the feeling of personalized service, making the experience feel tailored rather than generic.

Price and Value

At $199 per person, this tour provides a treat-yourself experience without breaking the bank. When you consider the luxury vehicle, expert guidance, and scenic stops, it’s a strong value—especially for those seeking a more refined, intimate wine adventure. Since wine tastings and food are not included in the ticket price, you’ll want to budget extra for additional tastings or snacks, but that also means you control your experience and spend according to your preferences.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for small groups, couples, or wine lovers who want an elevated, private feel. If you dislike the idea of crowded buses and prefer a more relaxed, personalized day, this tour is ideal. It’s also well-suited for those who value stunning scenery and expert guidance, making it more than just a transportation service.

Travelers looking for a luxury experience combined with scenic views and authentic wine tastings will find it particularly appealing. If you’re visiting Traverse City and want to enjoy the region’s vineyards without the hassle of driving, this tour offers a seamless way to indulge.

The Sum Up

For those seeking a comfortable, personalized wine experience on the scenic Old Mission Peninsula, this Lincoln MKT limousine tour hits the mark. It combines luxury transportation with expert guidance and breathtaking views, making it a memorable way to explore Traverse City’s wine country. While it may be slightly pricier than a typical group tour, the added comfort, flexibility, and intimate setting make it a worthwhile investment for connoisseurs and casual wine enthusiasts alike.

If you value stunning vistas, expert advice, and a touch of luxury, this tour is a top choice. It’s especially suited for travelers who want to avoid the chaos of buses and truly savor their wine journey in style.

FAQ

How many wineries will I visit?
You’ll visit four wineries on the Old Mission Peninsula, each offering tastings and views.

Is transportation included?
Yes, you’ll be transported in a luxury Lincoln MKT limousine, with most groups having a semi-private experience.

Are wine samples included in the tour price?
Yes, wine samples are included. However, additional tastings, bottles, or food purchases are separate.

Can I customize the stops?
While the main itinerary is set, guides are willing to accommodate preferences if possible, especially for larger groups.

What is the group size?
Most groups are small, often 5-6 people, but the maximum capacity is 18 travelers.

Is this tour suitable for non-drinkers?
Yes, non-drinkers can still enjoy the scenery and the guided experience, but tastings are part of the tour.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, most tours are booked about 10 days ahead, so planning early ensures you secure your spot.

This Lincoln MKT limousine tour offers a blend of sophistication, scenic beauty, and expert wine guidance—ideal for those wanting to truly indulge in Traverse City’s wine scene without sacrificing comfort.