Getting to the Islands
Whether you prefer to take a narrated tour from the comfort of a cruise boat or would rather explore the hidden beaches of the islands, there are plenty of ways to get there.
Apostle Islands Cruises offers a variety of nonstop sightseeing excursions and island shuttles featuring stops at several islands. The most popular excursion trip is the 55-mile “Grand Tour” which lasts just over three hours and travels through the heart of the Apostle Islands archipelago. The daily shuttles provide boat transportation services to specific islands, where visitors can tour lighthouses, hike, picnic, bird-watch and explore natural and cultural areas. All cruises depart from the City Dock in Bayfield. Trips leave daily from late May to mid-October. Reservations are recommended.
There are multiple independent charter services, both powerboat and sailboat, that operate out of Bayfield and Cornucopia that offer water taxi service to the individual islands as well.
Guided kayak trips to the islands are provided by several local outfitters. Most of these trips are multiple day excursions and include gear and food. Kayak rentals are also available for experienced paddlers, but it is highly recommended that first-time paddlers join a guided trip. The weather conditions on Lake Superior can change dramatically, so be sure to check the forecast before setting out.
Trek & Trail
The original, and only Sea Kayak Company based in Bayfield. Offering guided sea kayak tours, rentals, shuttles, instruction courses, new & used boats, gear & apparel.
Apostle Islands Kayaking
Enjoy a new perspective on the Apostle Islands - join us on a unique, one-of-a kind kayaking experience!
Whitecap Kayak
Guided kayak trips on Lake Superior and in the Apostle Islands.
Animaashi Sailing Company
Daily sailboat rides May thru Oct. Half-day, all-day, and evening trips available. Couples, groups (up to six), walk-ons, and families with children welcome. Food/Drinks allowed.
Dreamcatcher Sailing
Daily hands-on sailing trips or just relax on one our boats! Great for families, groups & couples, Overnight Adventures available, too. Office in Howl Clothing & Adventure.
Madeline Island Ferry Line
Our ferries connect Bayfield and Madeline Island. The 25 minute trip runs every 1/2 hour during the summer. Walk, bike, or drive aboard. Relax and let the magic of Lake Superior weave its spell.
Apostle Islands Yacht Charters
Bareboat & Captained charters
Lost Creek Adventures LLC
Sea Cave Kayak Trips - Half & Full Day
Apostle Islands Kayak Camping Trips
Kayak rentals
SUP Rentals
Paddling Workshops
Apostle Islands Cruises
Scenic narrated cruises of Apostle Islands National Lakeshore. Lighthouse cruises and tours, island shuttles and sunset cruises. May to October. Reservations recommended.
Superior Charters & Yacht Sales
Sail the 'Caribbean of the North' on a captained or bareboat charter. Or, participate in an introductory, refresher, or advanced open water course. We have over 30 new and late model boats available!