Exploring the Caribbean of the North

Emerging from the clear waters of Lake Superior are the colorful golden red arches of the Apostle Islands sea caves. You'll find the caves on the outer shoreline of several of the islands. The delicate, arching caves were formed by the weathering action of Lake Superior's wind and waves on the sandstone shoreline. Oxidized iron in the rock gives the caves a burnt orange, rusty color. Some of the caves feature a rippling pattern in the rock, formed by the same weathering action, nearly a billion years ago.

Because the caves are located at the base of steep cliffs that drop straight into the lake, they are accessible only by boat. Perhaps this limited access is what makes them special, as they offer a place to enjoy the solitude and powerful beauty of the Apostle Islands and Lake Superior.

During periods of extremely calm weather, it's possible to paddle into the caves to explore their beauty and intriguing sounds. Sea caves can be both seen, and heard. The action of the waves pouring through the caverns causes the caves to sound deep, percussive notes.

Devil's Island and Sand Island are home to some of the most dramatic and colorful sea cave formations. Getting to Devil's Island by kayak typically entails a multi-day expedition. Self-supported or guided kayak tours to the island can be arranged though outfitters in Bayfield, including Trek and Trail (trek-trail.com) or Living Adventures (livingadventure.com). Because Devil's Island is exposed to weather from the open lake, arranging a visit to the caves requires a combination of good weather, a knowledgeable guide, and solid boating experience.

If your time is limited, consider visiting the caves on Sand Island, or the caves east of Meyers Beach. Sand Island is much closer to the mainland compared to Devil's Island, and the shoreline surrounding the caves offers more protection from the weather. Meyers Beach is accessible from the mainland, and the caves are a one-mile paddle from the parking lot.

Boating on Lake Superior is a serious endeavor, and you should only venture out into the lake with an experienced guide or captain. Even if you already have extensive boating experience, it is advisable to check with the National Park Service, local kayak companies, or sailing charter operators prior to getting on the water. A sudden change in the weather can turn a relaxing paddle to the sea caves into a fight for survival, as the steep, rocky shoreline of the cave area offers no protection from wind or waves.

For more information about boating in the Apostle Islands, be sure to check out the National Park Service's web site at: http://www.nps.gov/apis/planyourvisit/gettingaround.htm

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."