Having read some of the negative reviews for this experience, I can understand why some people weren't happy. I was told there is always a wait and 45 minutes was a pretty short one. The staff on ticket sales didn't seem interested in their customers. However, as adults, once we were on the ride we enjoyed it a lot. Our driver was amusing in part and informative in part. We didn't find anything to offend us or feel others might be offended. The fast parts of the journey were exhilarating and the ride was worth the money. Give it a go but be prepared to wait an hour before you start.
It was like doing an outdoor amusement ride. My wife and I had a blast doing this. It was educational, exciting and entertaining. Some might not like the dry humor of the driver but we enjoyed it. And there were some great views. We sat in the back row and had a great time. It was a little bumpy and wild but that added to the excitement of it.
We have taken dune rides twice and it was a fun experience both times. I would highly recommend it. The drivers were a little cheesy, mostly for the kids, but it was a fast and informative way to tour the dunes, see a great view and have a roller coaster ride in sand. Our first driver drove faster and was more fun so it probably differs w each driver. We didn't have a wait.
We may have just been lucky but my wife and I stopped by based on a sign we saw out on the highway. We got right on the next ride out with no wait. My wife has a handicap and the driver was very helpful in getting her on and off the ride. We both loved it and would do it again for sure!
My husband and I arrived about 1/2 hour after this attraction opened, on a Thursday morning in July. The reservation counter was hopping, but we were fortunate enough to get 2 seats in a dune buggy leaving in 1/2 hour. Other larger groups had a much longer wait, and some were NOT happy. The ride and scenery were terrific and our guide (Austin) very adept and knowledgeable. (We even enjoyed our flat tire incident, initially wondering if it was staged.) We liked hearing about the history of the Dunes and the interesting developments of the area throughout the years.
My friends and I had a blast on this tour. The vehicles go a lot faster than I thought they would, which made more exciting. A few cheesy moments but that's what makes it more fun for children. I would recommend heading over to do this tour if you're in the area.
Not from the area but have lived here long enough to say we are locals...... going to the Dune Rides is a must when visiting Lake MI/Saugatuck. It's a great reminder of the beauty of the dunes and the Lake and educates you on the history of the area. We were the only 2 people on the "ride" and had a blast. If your visiting Saugatuck, take the time for a dune ride. It's worth it.
Taking a ride on the dunes schooner is an adventure worth taking. It is suitable for all ages, and all will enjoy it. The views are spectacular, and the guidance tell interesting stories about the near and distant history of the place. Sometimes it's a little cheesy, but if you're in the area I recommend it.
Very fun dune ride for the whole family. Jokes where a little cheesy but entertaining. The views were very good of the dunes and Lake Michigan. They let you get out walk in the sand and take pictures. The history of the area was very interesting.
How to describe? A fast paced, humorous and informative ride through the sand dunes. The ride was a blast, the driver kept as laughing when he wasn't educating us and the entire route was filled with little extras to keep you smiling. Definitely worth the ride!