Lake Mendota Heritage Tours: Featuring Don Sanford

Lake Mendota Heritage Tours: Stories from the Water

Discover Lake Mendota through the eyes of the people who know and love it best.

Step aboard for an unforgettable two-hour journey across Madison’s most iconic lake as local historians, storytellers, environmental leaders, longtime captains, authors, and lake experts bring Lake Mendota’s history, mysteries, and beauty to life.

Each intimate Heritage Tour is led by a featured guest presenter sharing their unique perspective—from Indigenous history and hidden landmarks to legendary lake stories, environmental restoration, shoreline history, famous figures, sailing culture, Clean Lakes efforts, and the moments that shaped Madison.

This isn’t a scripted sightseeing cruise. It’s a rare opportunity to experience the lake through personal stories, deep local knowledge, and a shared love for one of Madison’s greatest treasures.

With just 10 guests per tour, these experiences are intentionally small, conversational, and immersive—giving you the chance to ask questions, connect with presenters, and see Lake Mendota in an entirely new way.

Whether you’re a lifelong Madisonian, new to the city, or visiting for the first time, you’ll leave with a deeper connection to the lake and the stories that make Madison special.

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Featuring Don Sanford. 

See Madison from a different point of view this summer with Lake Mendota historian Captain Don Sanford, author of On Fourth Lake: A Social History of Lake Mendota.

Don will offer several fun narrated cruises on Lake Mendota aboard the Marshall Boats pontoon boat. During this cruise, Don will take you out for a deeper look at some of the fascinating people, places, and events that have shaped the shoreline of Lake Mendota as we know it today. You’ll discover there’s plenty of history hiding in plain sight if you just know where to look.

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$37.50 per person | Limited to 10 guests per tour

Your experience includes:

• A relaxing 2-hour guided pontoon tour of Lake Mendota
• A featured local storyteller, historian, or lake expert
• Beautiful lake views and hidden points of interest
• Light snacks and refreshments onboard
• Opportunities for questions and conversation

A portion of all Heritage Tours will be given to the CLA or an organization of the guest’s choosing. Please reach out to admin@madisonboats.com for financial support.