Lake Express Ferry

The Great Lake Short Cut!

See lake michigan like you've never seen it before, skip the traffic, take the lake michigan fast ferry shortcut and avoid chicago traffic frustrations., the lake express provides fast and easy daily roundtrip service between muskegon, mi and milwaukee, wi. just 2-1/2 hours from coast to coast., avoid hundreds of miles of driving when you travel across lake michigan instead of around through chicago., you’ll enjoy unrivaled freedom as you move around our comfortable and modern passenger cabins and unforgettable sights as you cross the world’s 5th largest lake..

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Now Booking Summer 2024!

Great Lakes Marine Charters

Sail Into Something New

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Time To Escape Your “Normal” and Lean Into Adventure

Step aboard our intimate, active yacht experiences and discover pristine shorelines and horizons. Feel the gentle spray off the water, enjoy sun-soaked afternoons improving your mood and your health, and dive into new memories with the crew of the Athina. Find a new perspective along the stunning shores of Lake Huron and Lake Michigan.

Explore. Experience. Enjoy.

Our intimate trips aboard our catamaran “Athina” offer a distinct experience for everyone. From a pleasure cruise during the afternoon to corporate retreats, SUP excursions, kid’s activities or evening sunset cruises, we would love to be part of your memories. Find your adventure aboard the Athina, and allow yourself a little relaxation this season!

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Planning Your Sail

Our crewed yacht charters have staff that will guide you through everything from booking to ensuring your trip is one of a lifetime. Whether you want to learn how to sail, enjoy a glass of local wine you bring onboard by the light of the setting sun, or create a unique adventure, you’ll find our customer service and attention to detail unmatched. If you want to step outside of the ordinary and find something truly refreshing, you’ve come to the right place.

Testimonials

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-Augie & Dee

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810-858-0330 [email protected] Michigan, USA

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CHARTERS | SCHOOL | SALES

Join us the unsalted sailing flotilla.

June 22-26, 2024

We’re excited to explore the islands, anchorages and harbor towns in our area with the safety and comradery of flotilla-style sailing. 

catamaran lake michigan

MICHIGAN’S AUTHORIZED JEANNEAU DEALER

New models at our docks in st. clair shores and traverse city., yacht charters.

We continue to provide the best sailing charter fleet on Lake Michigan to cruise the harbors of Grand Traverse Bays, Little Traverse Bay, The Straits of Mackinaw, The Manitou Islands, Beaver Island, the Les Cheneaux Islands and beyond!

SAILING SCHOOL

Our passion is sailing and our goal is to share the knowledge and feeling of being under sail. Great Lakes Sailing Co. is an ASA Award Winning Sailing School with a 30 year history of introducing sailing to over 5000 sailors.

FEATURED YACHTS

Check out these new and used boats in-stock now and get sailing this summer! New Jeanneau models in stock and arriving soon. We have most Jeanneau models on display so give us a call to set up a time to meet us at our docks.

2024 JEANNEAU SUN ODYSSEY 440

2024 jeanneau sun odyssey 410, sail northern michigan.

The first thing people notice when arriving in Northern Michigan is the clear, teal and blue Caribbean-esque water . Navigation is very easy due to lack of tides and water depths exceed 700 feet in some areas, and within our sailing grounds are 45 anchorages, harbor towns and marinas available to cruisers.

12935 S. West Bay Shore Drive

Traverse City, MI  49684

[email protected]

231.941.0535

12935 S West Bay Shore Dr

Traverse City, Mi 49684

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The Boat – The Norra Dorr

sister bay boats - NORRA DÖRR

The Norra Dorr is a custom catamaran that was constructed in 2017 to offer Sister Bay Scenic Boat Tours on Lake Michigan. As the newest and largest tour boat in Door County, it boasts of 149-passenger capacity, making it an ideal option for group tours. The boat’s double-decker design features an upper sun deck, offering panoramic views of the lake, while the lower deck is fully enclosed, ensuring passengers’ comfort in all weather conditions.

The Norra Dorr is equipped with His & Hers bathrooms, snacks, and a non-alcoholic bar, ensuring passengers’ convenience while on board. A full surround sound system is installed to provide a fantastic audio experience to all passengers. With a top speed of 30mph, the Norra Dorr is perfect for getting around the western shore of Door County.

Furthermore, the Norra Dorr is wheelchair accessible, making it an inclusive option for people with disabilities. Sister Bay’s ample parking ensures that passengers have convenient parking options nearby. With its impressive features and excellent design, the Norra Dorr is a fantastic option for anyone looking to explore the beauty of Green Bay on a comfortable and modern tour boat.

> Daily Tours

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Parking Directions

Park in the lot directly across the street or @ 2272 Sunset Rd. in the city lot.

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Chicago's Premier Yacht Charter Service

Experience Lake Michigan with the ultimate comfort and style through our tailored charter services.

An Elevated Experience

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Charters & Rates

Whatever the occasion, do it in style.

Private Charters

  • Chicago River
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Day Charters

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Night Charters

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Sea Ray SLX 400 40ft

Winner of the NMMA Innovation Award, the SLX 400, coined “The Entertainer”, combines peak performance, superior comfort, incredible versatility and style, and state-of-the-art technology

  • Wet bar, 2 grills, refrigerator, wine cooler, microwave, 3 TVs
  • Fresh water washdown, deck shower
  • Platform (launch pad) that lowers into water
  • Bathroom with toilet and fresh water sink
  • Seating for 15 people
  • Sleeps 4 overnight
  • Stereo in cabin & cockpit, with bluetooth connectivity
  • Satellite radio & weather
  • Dual inboard-outboard MerCruiser engines
  • and much more...

Streamlined process

How it Works

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To confirm your booking, simply agree to the quote, sign the contract, and submit the corresponding deposit.

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City-Centered, Accessible Luxury

a curated experience

Our Concierge Service

Concierge Service

we strive to exceed expectations

Our Happy Clients

catamaran lake michigan

What a perfect day out on Lake Michigan! We felt like kings and queens and the boat was as classy as the service. Eleven out of ten experience. 

You won’t find more genuine hosts who want nothing less than the best experience for their guests. Whether it’s a slow cruise down the river or an anchored stay in the Play Pen, you’re sure to be charmed by the magic of the city. They think of everything so you don’t have to, a stress free experience. 10/10 would recommend.

We may be the Second City but Chi City Charters is second to none! Best boat on the lake, period!

We had the best time cruising along the Chicago River on Lock Leader. Our captain and crew were utter professionals and taught us a lot about Lake Michigan and Chicago. Highly recommended to see the city from a different view.

If you have any inquiries, please refer to our list of frequently asked questions (FAQs) provided below. In case you cannot find the answer you seek, please do not hesitate to reach out to us.

A bareboat charter, as defined by the United States Coast Guard (USCG), is an arrangement granting the Charterer (the individual renting the yacht) temporary ownership and use of a vessel for a specified duration. Under this agreement, the Charterer assumes responsibility for the vessel, their guests, hiring their own Crew, and providing their own food and beverages.

It is important to note that the Charterer may either operate the vessel themselves if they possess the required credentials or choose to hire their own Captain and Crew.

However, it is crucial to adhere to the maximum passenger limit of 12 individuals for a bareboat chartered vessel.

For bareboat charters, the maximum capacity is 12 passengers, excluding the Captain and Crew.

The hired Captain and Crew are not counted as passengers. So, to clarify, the Charterer can bring a maximum of 11 guests.

Please keep in mind that infants and children are included in the total capacity count. Your Captain will count as an additional person, and the Crew can range from 1 to 2 people, depending on your specific requirements.

Once your booking is confirmed, Chi City Charters will provide you with a selection of qualified and approved Captains who have extensive knowledge of the yacht.

Our Captains can offer valuable recommendations regarding the number of Crew members you may require, depending on your specific charter plan. They have a network of experienced Crew members who are familiar with the yacht, and they can enhance your charter experience by providing additional safety, assistance, and service throughout your journey.

Alternatively, Charterers are welcome to provide their own certified Captain. It’s important to note that Captains are independent contractors hired directly by the Charterer and are not affiliated with or employed by Chi City Charters.

The rate for Captains typically ranges from $80 to $250 per hour, depending on their skills, experience, and qualifications, and this does not include gratuity.

It is customary to show appreciation to your hired Captain and Crew by leaving a gratuity of 18-25% of the total charter price (excluding the Captain’s hourly rate). Payment and gratuity should be made directly to your hired Captain.

Captains usually accept cash or payment through peer-to-peer platforms such as ApplePay, Venmo, Zelle, and others.

At Chi City Charters, we accept all major credit cards, including ApplePay, Venmo, Zelle, direct deposit, and cash, providing you with flexible payment options.

However, please be aware that we are unable to accept payment on behalf of your hired Captain or Crew, as they are separate contractors hired directly by the Charterer.

We recommend discussing the preferred method of payment with your hired Captain to ensure a smooth transaction process that aligns with their payment preferences.

fun in the sun

Get ready for an unforgettable yacht experience on Lake Michigan! Use our booking app to find your desired date and time, and bring your perfect day in the sun to life.

Send us a message

Please allow 1 business day for follow up.

Nauti-Cat Cruises

  • Most Popular

CHAMPAGNE SUNSET CRUISE

Quick Details

  • Hour Glass Duration: 2 hours

Enjoy Traverse City’s Wonderful Sunsets

Looking for the best views of the day? Then check out our Champagne Sunset Cruise. Enjoy breathtaking scenery of Traverse City’s wonderful sunset. As we leisurely sail past some of the most beautiful homes along Old Mission Peninsula, you can lay back in the nets and watch the sun disappear. Once it starts to set, everyone enjoys a complimentary glass of champagne and we toast various events such as birthdays, anniversaries, or whatever moves you!

The Nauti-Cat sails on West Grand Traverse Bay, and depending on the wind speed, the catamaran can reach 14 knots. There are two heads (restrooms) aboard. You are more than welcome to bring food aboard. If you want to feel like a part of the crew, we can put you to work raising the sails, jibing, tacking, and navigating.

While on the Nauti-Cat, you get the best view of Traverse City, so bring your camera because these photos will be unforgettable!

What Is Not Included?

  • Snacks are not included, but you are welcome to bring your own food!
  • You can purchase beer, wine, mixed drinks and soft drinks at our on-board bar with cash or a credit card.
  • Please note that personal drink items are not allowed.

Meeting Location

  • 615 E Front Street (Traverse City, MI)
  • Directions: Click here

RELATED CRUISES

Happy hour cruise.

Get ready to soak up the sun and take the plunge on our happy hour cruise!

  • Users All ages

Noon Cruise

The sun is at its highest during our Noon Cruise, making it a favorite for sun-bathing and relaxing!

Lake Michigan yacht charters offering Great Lakes yacht rentals of a lifetime!

Escaping with one of our Lake Michigan yacht charters is awaiting for you aboard our luxury 68′ Chris Craft yacht named “Adeline’s Sea Moose” When you long for nothing more but an escape from it all… Adeline’s Sea Moose and her attentive crew come to the rescue to meet all your needs. You’re about to embark on a Great Lakes yacht rentals experience unlike any other… and best of all it’s absolutely fun-filled! Slipping out of your shoes and onto her deck, you’ll quickly realize there’s going to be something uniquely different about private Adeline’s Sea Moose Great Lakes yacht rentals. With the greeting and handshake of the Captain down to the warm smiles of the gracious crew, you’ll immediately start to know you’re in exceptional hands and headed for an incredible fun-filled time aboard your very own floating playground.

Lake Michigan Yacht Charters

Chicago Lake Michigan   boat   rentals  for parties

Adeline’s Sea Moose Chicago Lake Michigan boat rentals for parties offer a 68-foot luxury Chris Craft yacht and her attentive crew. Adeline’s Sea Moose Chicago Lake Michigan boat rentals for parties also offer a combination of luxury and versatility. It is easy to understand the popularity of the delightful aft-deck salon with a wet bar, whether for open-air dining or merely for the possibility of solitude with a good book. Above, the flybridge offers an ample seating or lounging area. Here, guests can enjoy the sun and cool drinks or gather for a sunset cocktail as a prelude to dinner.

Chicago Lake Michigan boat rentals for parties

When it comes to Lake Michigan boat rentals, go for our Private Yacht Rental!

There are Lake Michigan boat rentals, and then there is our Adeline’s Sea Moose private yacht rental Our alternative to Lake Michigan boat rentals will truly offer you the best memorable experience in Chicago AND even more, value when you consider… with Adeline’s Sea Moose, can have your extended family and friends aboard “your very own” 68 foot private yacht for food, drink, merriment and what surely will be a unique activity for all. There’s plenty of room to roam for the family for all and when the gathering is over, you and your select guests can continue to enjoy all the amenities the yacht has to offer for the rest of your time aboard.

Lake Michigan boat rentals

Best Lake Michigan  Chicago   boat   rental  for company events

Best Lake Michigan Chicago boat rental for company events

Lake Michigan Chicago   boat   rental  for birthday party

Ready for an epic cruise on your special day? Then you’re ready for an Adeline’s Sea Moose Lake Michigan Chicago boat rental for a birthday party. Your Lake Michigan Chicago boat rental for birthday party awaits you at J-Dock in Burnham Harbor. With our Lake Michigan Chicago boat rental for birthday party cruises, you get to combine all of the best elements of other parties and ditch the things that aren’t as great, like the large crowds of intrusive strangers. Take the delicious food, fun drinks, and your friends and relatives and sail away!

Lake Michigan Chicago boat rental for birthday party

(224) 601-0220

TEXT Only 312-500-7838

Adeline’s Sea Moose is a well-appointed 68-foot luxury Chris Craft 45-passenger Coast Guard-certified twin-engine yacht located at J-Dock Burnham Harbor Chicago . East of Lake Shore Drive at the end of Waldron Drive. The first dock north of the Harbormaster’s office.

Directions Docking Address J-Dock Burnham Harbor 1559 South Lake Shore Drive Chicago , IL 60605

Office Address Chicago Private Yacht Rental, Inc 4751 West Touhy Avenue Suite 101 Lincolnwood, IL 60712

Chicago Private Yacht Rentals Philanthropy Charitable Charters

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Best Chicago Boat Tours

Knock out charters.

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2-5 Hour Private Charters

Take a cruise tailored to your preferences. Spend some time anchored, sunning or swimming! Let us customize the perfect cruise for you. I don’t think we have ever said no unless it was illegal.

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Built to cruise the ocean, she plays on Lake Michigan with ease. With plenty of space, this boat has all the amenities and comforts of home. This boat is the pride of the Chicago Charter Boat fleet.

Special Chicago Boat Trips

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Marriage Proposals

You waited your whole life to meet this person and to ask what probably will be the most important question you ask in your entire life. They waited their whole life for you to ask this question.

catamaran lake michigan

Casino Package

We depart Chicago and head South to The Horseshoe Casino in Hammond. We drop you off right at the parking deck for some casino fun. We can either wait for you or help you arrange a Limo back to the city.

Architecture Tour

Discover Chicago’s architectural marvels from the comfort of a private boat tour. Glide along the Chicago River, enjoying expert commentary on iconic skyscrapers, historic landmarks, and innovative designs.

Contact Us or Book Direct Online to Make a Reservation

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Knock Out Charters is an award-winning company in Chicago. We want you to be as happy as we are to be enjoying Lake Michigan and the spectacular views of Chicago from both the Lake and The Chicago River...

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The Captain

Licensed Master Captain Chris Connor has been boating for over 40 years on a myriad of both Power and Sail boats. He has been on Lake Michigan for over 20 years, and the passion has not waned one bit...

Chicago Boat Trip Photo Gallery

Contact info.

  • Phone (312) 613-9799
  • Email [email protected]
  • Address DuSable Harbor 111 N. Lake Shore Drive Chicago IL, 60601

Book Direct

  • Cancellations less than 24 hours in advance, deposit will not be refunded.
  • Cancellations more than 24 hours, deposit will be refunded.
  • In the case of weather-related cancellations by Knock Out Charters, customers will be offered opportunity to re-schedule or be refunded their deposit.

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Trip duration, multiple days (less than 1 week), weekly trip show boats that have weekly prices. most weekly boats outside of the us are available only saturday to saturday., boat length: 5ft -, manufacturer, boat build year: -, weekly trip, price: $ - $.

Affordable Private Boat Charters

In addition to the best offers we have for boat and yacht charters in Lake Michigan, see also options available for rent in these nearby locations:

  • 19 boat rentals in Edgewater, Chicago, IL
  • 19 boat rentals in Lincoln Park, Chicago, IL
  • 19 boat rentals in Berwyn, IL
  • 19 boat rentals in Gold Coast, Chicago, IL
  • 19 boat rentals in West Loop, Chicago, IL
  • 19 boat rentals in Near West Side, Chicago, IL
  • 19 boat rentals in Lake Bluff, IL
  • 19 boat rentals in Streeterville, Chicago, IL
  • 19 boat rentals in Downers Grove, IL
  • 19 boat rentals in Rogers Park, Chicago, IL

Lake Michigan - a yachting playground perfect to explore with Sailo

Interested in renting a sailboat check availability in lake michigan, amazing yachting experiences happen on the right boat. search for it now, how much is it to rent a yacht in lake michigan, can i rent a yacht in lake michigan with a captain, together we protect our oceans.

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Our 2024 season in South Haven is delayed — but our location in Saugatuck is open. See more details here.

Our 2023 season in South Haven is delayed. Availability will be released as soon as possible.

TWO HOUR PRIVATE SAILING CHARTERS IN SOUTH HAVEN

Free cancellation.

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Private Charter

Best of the best

Ranked #1 tour in South Haven

360+ five-star reviews

Daily private sailing tours in South Haven for groups up to 6.

Set sail in South Haven. Private tours for groups up to 6 people.

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2 hours long

Day Sailing Cruise

$350 + tax

See more details

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Sunset Sailing Cruise

$395 + tax

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Welcome aboard!

Set sail on the Margaret Ann, a cozy and welcoming sailboat from the scenic lakeside city of South Haven, Michigan. Our two-hour sailing charters offer an unforgettable experience for groups up to 6 people as we sail along the shore of Lake Michigan.

Whether you're a seasoned sailor or a first-timer, our commitment is to provide a relaxing and enjoyable trip that will create cherished memories for all who embark with us.

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Private Charters Only

Our boat is your boat. You can even bring your own food and drinks on board.

Get directions

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Simple Booking

Easily book online with a free and easy cancellation policy.

See more info

DNR Certified

Our Captains, crew and sailing vessels certified to provide a safe and fun sailing experience.

Another Option: Tall ship sailing in Saugatuck

Just 18 minutes away in Saugatuck, you can sail onour 65 foot tall ship, the Schooner Serenity.

catamaran lake michigan

Daily Public Sail in Saugatuck

Up to 24 guests, us coast guard certified.

Make your next private event or leisurely outing on the water an unforgettable experience by chartering Schooner Serenity. With room for up to 24 guests and our professional captain and crew, you'll have everything you need.

$56 / person

Starting at $1,288, some recent reviews.

"So much fun!"

"So peaceful and beautiful! Our first time sailing and it was amazing! The captain and crew were the best- full of info and a great sense of humor. The boat is perfect for a family of 6. We enjoyed it so much and highly recommend!"

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September 2022

"Just the best!"

"We've done the larger sails out of South Haven, and they can be fun. But for a more intimate experience, we chose Sailing South Haven. Just my husband and I, and the captain and deck hand. The weather was perfect, and it was fun to get to pilot the sailboat for a bit. You can help as much (or as little) as you want. And of course, the BYOB is awesome. Definitely worth the price."

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August 2022

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"Must do in South Haven!"

"We had the absolute best time with Andy and Ann. They made us feel comfortable and safe and made sure we had an amazing tim. We kept saying this was the highlight of our weekend in South Haven - we will for sure be doing this again!!! Can't express enough how great this experience was - if you're thinking about booking, just DO IT!"

catamaran lake michigan

Jacqueline T.

"Amazing time sailing on Lake Michigan."

"My husband and I were in South Haven for our mini moon and decided to take a trip on Sailing South Haven for our last night and boy are we glad we did! It was such a wonderful experience, Captain Andy & Ann were awesome! They took us out and we had the most magical evening watching the sunset and enjoying the peace and quiet of Lake Michigan with champagne and snacks!"

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$59 / all ages

$68 / all ages

Our 2023 season in South Haven is delayed — but our location in Saugatuck is open.

See more details here.

catamaran lake michigan

Welcome aboard Chicago's largest chartering catamaran "Latitude Adjustment". With a spacious cockpit design and roomy interior, she's the perfect choice for any occasion. 

Catamaran sailing lessons, get local experience so you can rent a catamaran anywhere in the world.

There are very few Catamarans in Chicago, even fewer that are available for you to learn to sail. Our program is the only one in Chicago that offers  Catamaran Certification  that is accepted internationally.

You have 2 choices for Catamaran Lessons

Private Lessons up to 6 people.

 $600/hr- PURCHASE NOW

Join our Sailing Club and learn how to sail a wide variety of boats including this Catamaran, ALL SUMMER LONG!

New Sailor Special , three 3-hr. sails for $300.

Club Membership Sample (Sail with us & escape)

3-hr. Sailing: M-F 6:30pm, Sat/Sun 10, 1:30 & 6pm

PURCHASE NOW  ​

All of our Memberships allow access to Catamaran Sails

Catamaran Bareboating Memberships

3rd Coast Charters

3rd Coast Charters

Fractional sailing, (bareboating or rental), bareboating a vessel is the ultimate way to enjoy a warm and wonderful day on lake michigan with a large group of friends., you have 2 choices for catamaran bareboating, join our sailing club. with our club memberships, you will be able to take this vessel out with 12 other people and you can schedule as little as 3 hours on the water. , 1-time rental, contact us below for more information.

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PRIVATE YACHT CHARTER

The city of chicago at it's finest., welcome aboard, nothing beats the beauty of lake michigan on a summer day.  as vast as an ocean, clean and fresh, tranquil and mesmerizing, yet temperamental and tempestuous, lake michigan always provides it’s own adventure., are you looking to experience the best part of chicago this summer   join us for a private excursion along the beautiful chicago shoreline, on the 46 foot luxury yacht, “great laker.”  whether you’re seeking a relaxing afternoon in the sun, a sunset cruise, the chicago air and water show or celebrating a special day, we can custom tailor your time to create a truly memorable experience., choose from several lake michigan chicago area excursions..

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Swim in the calm waters of the Playpen or Monroe Harbor.

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Cruise the gorgeous Chicago skyline.

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Enjoy a glowing Chicago sunset.

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Make it a relaxing day in the sun.

catamaran lake michigan

Experience the annual Chicago Air and Water Show.

It’s your time.  mix it up.

Sailing Lake Michigan

231-547-0266

View the Schedule

Reserve a Seat

 231-547-0266

  • The Sunshine II

Charter Sailboat Rental

Our cruising yacht, “The Sunshine II”, finds her home in the heart of downtown Charlevoix on beautiful Round Lake. You will find her tied off right in front of the Kiosk at the water’s edge. The Sunshine II is a Coast Guard inspected catamaran built for blue water sailing. This amazing custom sailing catamaran is 40 foot long, 24 foot wide, which provides a smooth ride and plenty of room to relax and experience every aspect of sailing. We'll even let you trim the sails and steer!

Sunshine Charters offers the most unique sailing experience in the Charlevoix and Northern Michigan areas. Contact us today to book your next adventure on the Sunshine II and experience the beauty of Lake Michigan.

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Marine News from the Great Lakes

Discover a smooth ride on the great lakes with a power catamaran.

Published: Saturday, September 29, 2012 7:00 am By: Great Lakes Powercats

In the rough waters off Australia and South Africa, all rescue boats, police boats, and close to half of recreational boats are power catamarans. Along the east coast of the United States, power catamarans are fast becoming popular among fishing and cruising boaters who often venture out in rough conditions. Closer to home here in the Great Lakes, the Arnold Ferry service to Mackinac Island runs cats, and the Lake Michigan ferry is a catamaran, too.

Why? Because cats are safe, stable, fast, fuel efficient, and draw very little water.  But the biggest reason Aussies, South Africans and offshore anglers choose cats is they provide the smoothest ride on rough waters. When the waters are rough, smart boaters are turning to the catamaran’s stable ride and seaworthy safety. The ride and protection afforded by cats is so extraordinary, they can add an extra month of boating time to the Great Lakes boating season in the spring and the fall.

In the US, 85% of the power catamarans are built by the PowerCat Group under the Glacier Bay, World Cat, Carolina Cat and Livingston brands. They are all powered by quiet and efficient four-stroke outboard engines, and just one ride on a cat in rough water makes a believer out of boating enthusiasts.

catamaran lake michigan

Now, here is the great news: these cats are finally getting to the Great Lakes. Dave Gray and Joe Kostrzewa, from Traverse City, Michigan, have been partners in various ventures spanning over 40 years. They owned Power Cat Group cats in Florida for years and could not understand why the boats were not in the Great Lakes. To introduce cats to the Great Lakes, they teamed up with Brad Koster, the owner of EJ Mertaugh’s Boat Works in Hessel, Michigan, and working with Andrew Brown, President of the Power Cat Group, and formulated their latest venture: Great Lakes Power Cats, LLC.

Great Lakes Power Cats, LLC is now the exclusive Midwest distributor (including all of the Great Lakes and Canada) for the world’s largest power catamaran builder, the Power Cat Group. Great Lakes Power Cats represents four brands and 25 models of Glacier Bay, World Cat, Carolina Cat and Livingston catamarans ranging from 8’ to 34’.

The main goal of Great Lakes Power Cats is to develop the territory with quality dealers and representatives who can enthusiastically demonstrate the unique performance of these special vessels. The first dealer on board was Mertaugh’s in Hessel, Michigan. The next large dealer group to join was Jefferson Beach Marina, with locations in St. Clair Shores, Grand Haven and Charlevoix, Michigan, as well as Toledo, Ohio and Chicago, Illinois. In addition, Bay Breeze Yacht Charters out of Traverse City has become a representative and has a Glacier Bay 2770 available for demonstration and charter.  As the dealer network has grown, catamaran boats have sold well as Great Lakes boaters discover the ride and comfort that Joe and Dave experienced with their own boats on Florida’s Gulf Coast.

Joe and Dave know that the catamaran ride is key to making boaters into “believers.” Accordingly, Great Lakes Power Cats and its dealers have demo boats of various sizes available in the Michigan ports of Traverse City, Hessel, Grand Haven and St. Clair Shores. The group is continuing to expand the dealer and representative network, looking for top dealers in Northern Wisconsin, the East shore of Michigan, Canada, and Lakes Erie and Ontario.

You can reach Great Lakes Power Cats at 1-877-292-6543. Visit them at www.greatlakespowercats.com or www.powercatgroup.com to learn more about the cats or to schedule a sea trial.

1/5/24 - 1/30/2025

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Red flags flying at many Lake Michigan beaches

  • Published: Jun. 17, 2024, 1:12 p.m.

Breezy southerly winds have created hazardous swimming conditions at many Lake Michigan beaches.

As of Monday morning, according to the National Weather Service, Ludington State Park, P.J. Hoffmaster State Park and Grand Haven State Park were flying red flags.

The beaches were experiencing 2- to 4-foot waves combined with rip currents, leading to dangerous swimming conditions. Southerly winds have caused beaches from Grand Haven and north to experience these dangerous conditions. Beaches on the south side of piers will be vulnerable to structural currents.

For beachgoers trying to beat the heat, swimming is strongly discouraged today. If in the water, stay close to shore and away from the piers. Water safety devices are always encouraged.

Always check the warning system before entering the water. Michigan’s “ double red flag ” warning means swimming is closed.

Breezy conditions at the lake are also expected Tuesday, which may lead to dangerous swimming conditions once again. Things should calm down for Wednesday.

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