Description of the Grand Lady
Overall Length: 105’
Width: 26’
Height: 20’
Average Draft: 22"
Displacement: 70 tons
Propulsion: Twin Stern-wheels 12’ diameter 100 horsepower per wheel
Maximum Capacity: 150 Passengers + crew
The Grand Lady is constructed in the style of the steamboats that served the communities along the Grand River during the 1800’s. Although she is a modern vessel, she has many of the characteristics which made the early steam powered riverboats so successful on the Grand.
With her shallow draft, the Grand Lady can operate along the full length of the lower Grand, from the Lakeshore Railroad Bridge at mile 37.7 in Grand Rapids, to the mouth of the river at Grand Haven, including Spring Lake.
One of the main features of early riverboats was the giant paddlewheel. The Grand Lady has two identical stern paddlewheels, which may be operated independently. This allows her to be easily maneuvered in the narrow channels and sandbars of the river. The paddle wheels also allow her to operate in very shallow water (as little as 2 ½ feet), where a modern vessel would be grounded.
Cruises depart from the dock at Grandville for both one-way and round-trip tours. Cruising time from Grandville to Spring Lake is approximately 5 hours. Food is available as well as live music and bar facilities. Both open cruises and charters are available. Typical events include parties, weddings, school groups, historic tours as well as a full schedule of dinner, lunch, brunch and sightseeing cruises.
The main cabin will seat up to 80 passengers and the upper deck has a seated capacity of 65. The upper deck can be reached by three staircases; two at the front of the main cabin and one at the stern. The lower deck, main cabin and restrooms are fully handicapped accessible and ramps are provided for boarding and debarking.
Both decks and pilothouse are designed for Michigan’s unpredictable weather. With a cruising season from May 1st through October 31st, the Grand Lady can provide a comfortable experience, regardless of the season.