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rakiura
rakiura
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5 out of 5
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Superior Sailing with Superior Charters

  • November 21, 2008
  • Rated 5 of 5 by rakiura from Madison, Wisconsin
Superior Sailing with Superior Charters

What do cheese, the Green Bay Packers, and fantastic sailing all have in common? Wisconsin!

Some of the best sailing in North America can be found in Wisconsin's Apostle Islands National Seashore. Sometimes called "The Caribbean of the North", sailing the 21-island archipelago located on the south shore of Lake Superior offers a Northwoods wilderness experience without the hassle of having to portage a canoe or carry a backpack. Sailing is one of the most relaxed ways to see the islands, since you don't have to conform to the schedule of a tour boat company, nor do you have to paddle a sea kayak.

One gateway to sailing the Apostles is Superior Charters, located just south of Bayfield. This family-run charter company offers an assortment of sailboats for both bareboat and captained charters.
Their helpful staff seems well-organized, and the boats are very clean upon arrival. The company allows pre-boarding of your vessel the evening before the start of your charter, which provides an opportunity for you to get familiar with the boat prior to setting off to the islands.

Typically there is a 2-day minimum charter length, although it's likely you'll want to stay out longer. There are plenty of sea caves, beaches, lighthouses, and hiking trails to visit, and there's no need to rush once you're on island time.

Although Lake Superior shares the clear waters and tree-covered islands of the Caribbean, there's quite a temperature difference. Even during late summer, the water temperature may never exceed 60 ºF. Be prepared for changing weather conditions and challenging sailing. A calm, waveless morning can quickly change into a blustery 30-knot wind with 7-foot seas. Thick fog can set in at any time, requiring careful attention to navigation. As the National Park Service likes to point out, "The Lake is the Boss."

From journal Exploring the Caribbean of the North

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