Explore Our Guide
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.
Lost Creek Adventures & Outfitter
Sea Cave Kayak Trips - Half & Full Day Apostle Islands Kayak Camping Trips Kayak rentals SUP Rentals Paddling Workshops
Manitou Classic Sailing Charters
Enjoy the beauty of the Lake aboard a Classic Wooden boat--Manitou Sailing. Haul up the sails, take the helm or simply relax with the wind and the waves for company. Rides and weddings available
Living Adventure, Inc.
Living Adventure is Bayfield's foremost sea kayaking outfitter. Their beautiful private facility is located on the shore of Lake Superior and the gateway to the Apostle Islands.
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.
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 35 new and late model boats available!
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.
PMG Charters LLC
We will treat you right and get you where you want to be! Offering Custom Tours, Water Taxi, Kayaking, and Rentals in the Apostle Islands.
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.
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.
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 Kayaks
Kayak tours of Big Bay, expert instruction and sales on Madeline Island.