apostle island cruises

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Apostle Islands Cruises

The grand tour.

The Grand Tour is our most popular tour, which travels 55 miles non-stop through the Apostle Islands National Lakeshore. See the Raspberry & Devils Island lighthouses and pass the impressive Devils Island sea caves. (Weather permitting.) The tour also takes you by the brownstone quarry and a historic fishing camp. The Grand Tour takes about 2.5 - 3.25 hours. 

Stockton Island Day Hiking

Explore the trails on the largest island in the Apostle Islands National Lakeshore. Bogs, dunes, lagoons, savannahs, and pine forests are yours to explore. Don't miss the singing sands on Julian Bay Beach. (4 hours in duration, 2 hours on Stockton.)

Lighthouse Tours

Step back in time while you explore these historically preserved structures on either Michigan Island or Raspberry Island. (4 hours in duration, 2 hours on the island.) 

Overnight Camping

Looking for a little adventure? Step aboard a camping shuttle to either Stockton Island or Oak Island. Please book both outgoing and returning tickets. 

*Campers must obtain a permit from the National Park Service before departure at recreation.gov or contact the Park Service headquarters in Bayfield. 

For more information on tours and rates, please visit the Apostle Islands Cruises website. 

Lighthouses

Learn about the country's most extensive collection of lighthouses along the Apostle Islands National Lakeshore.

Apostle Islands Cruise Service

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Apostle Islands Cruise Service - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (2024)

• Apostle Islands Cruise

Apostle Islands Travel Directory

Apostle Islands Travel Apostle Islands Cruise Raspberry Island Lighthouse Islands Sea Caves Boat Tour Meyers Beach Sea Cave Hiking Trail Winter Bayfield Ice Caves Apostle Islands Links Madeline Island Madeline Island Historical Museum Big Bay State Park on Madeline Island Cornucopia, Wisconsin Bayfield Wisonsin Travel Directory Bayfield Wisconsin Camping

On a Memorial Day Weekend we took the Grand Tour of the islands offered by Apostle Islands Cruise Service . Early in the season, this cruise departs at 10 am and returns to Bayfield at 1 pm. Later in the season, they also offer afternoon and evening cruises as well as specialty cruises focusing on various aspects like lighthouses, sunken ships, island land tours, etc.

We traveled on the "Island Princess" which will carry up to 140 passengers, with a maximum of 50 on the upper deck.

Dan, Jo and Donna enjoy the comfort of the lower cabin, sheltered from the wind and cool weather. The windows slide open for picture taking or a breeze during hot weather. > > >

< < < The upper deck passengers were bundled up for the cool air and the morning breeze. The first 50 tickets purchased have the option of seating in the upper deck.

Views of some of the Apostle Islands

< < < Honeymoon Rock at the north end of Basswood Island.

< < < Oak Island in the background, the second largest of the Apostle Islands.

Devil's Island Sea Caves Video

Raspberry Island

< < < A group of sea kayakers paddle their way to Raspberry Island. Apostle Island Kayaking is a popular recreational activity.

Raspberry Island Cruise A few years later the repairs to the lighthouse and grounds were finished and we took a cruise to the island and the Park Service's special Apostle Island Raspberry Island Lighthouse Tour (go here for photos and information on the tour) .

More ways to see the Apostle Islands

Operating out of Bayfield True North Sailing offers full and partial day charters for small groups to explore the Apostle Islands as well as scheduled trips around Madeline Island and the Bayfield Peninsula.

Other Apostle Island Boat Tours

Apostle Islands tours and water taxi service (for island campers) are also operated out of Cornucopia, Wisconsin by Good Earth Outfitters (see our link on the Cornie page) .

See photos from our 2016 Mainland Bayfield Sea Caves Boat Tour .

Raspberry Island & Apostle Island Links

Map of the Apostle Islands Apostle Islands National Park Website Raspberry Island Brochure Apostle Islands Cruise Service

See more links and a directory to SuperiorTrails Apostle Islands visitor pages

SuperiorTrails.com - Reinhold Development - 2023

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Group Trips

SEA CAVES, BOAT CHARTER, KAYAK TOURS AND BEACH SHOP

We use power boats to sightsee the sea caves, light houses and more in the Apostle Island National Lakeshore. Make a reservation to hold your spot.

KAYAK ONLY MADELINE ISLAND

These tours operate from Madeline Island and give you hours of paddling time in Bay Bay State park, along majestic sea caves and back to the Big Bay Lagoon to end the trip.

RESERVE YOUR TOUR

These tours are very popular and certain days in the summer book up well in advance. So as soon as you know you are visiting the area -- we recommend you make a reservation to hold your spot.

WELCOME TO ADVENTURE VACATIONS

More than just boats and kayaks.

PADDLE BOARD RENTALS & MORE

APOSTLE ISLANDS / MADELINE ISLAND AREA WEATHER FORECAST

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Discover the Apostle Islands and Fun in Bayfield this Year!

Stunning natural scenery, windswept beaches, eight historic lighthouses , nature-carved rock formations, marine wildlife, and intricate sea caves – this is Apostle Islands National Lakeshore . The Apostle Islands are a group of 22 islands in Lake Superior , off the Bayfield Peninsula in northern Wisconsin . Along the gorgeous Lake Superior shoreline is an array of natural animal habitats and old-growth remnant forests that make Apostle Islands one of the most beautiful outdoor spaces to explore. From 100-year-old lighthouses to extensive sea cave formations, there’s endless beauty when exploring the Apostle Islands National Lakeshore.

Apostle Islands are the Crown Jewel of Wisconsin

Bayfield – Charming Gateway to The Apostle Islands

Bayfield offers you wonderful opportunities to experience the Apostle Islands National Lakeshore . Fun at summer music festivals, take your pick at thriving fruit orchards and soak up the area’s history at the maritime museum in this harbor town. Bayfield hosts a variety of events during the seasons.

Bayfield forms a gateway to music, art, and the Northern wilderness of the Apostle Islands

Bayfield in B loom

The Spring Flower Festival is a wonderful place to take in the beauty, fragrance, and magic of Spring! Be dazzled by 50,000 blooming daffodils, roadside lupine and rolling orchards of apple blossoms bursting color during our week-long celebration of spring. Special events include a live broadcast of Garden Talk with Larry Meiller, Garden Tours and the annual Blessing of the Fleet. Bayfield in Bloom runs from May 31 – June 8, 2024.

Spring Flower Festival

Summer Concerts

All type of music can be enjoyed throughout the summer months. Local music and entertainment , classical performances , and a variety of concerts for all tastes. There’s even an open mic night for those wanting to share the stage.

Summer Concert Fun

Lighthouses Up Close

Step back in time to an era of maritime heritage and immerse yourself in the captivating history of Apostle Islands’ iconic lighthouses aboard an Apostle Island Cruise . Apostle Islands Lighthouse Tours . These experiences combine breathtaking scenery with fascinating stories as you explore Michigan Island Lighthouse and Raspberry Island Lighthouse . Tours available May 25 – September 29, 2024.

Iconic History of Apostle Island Lighthouses

Bayfield Festival of Arts

The community celebrates its connection to the arts during the annual Bayfield Festival of Arts weekend. Treasures can be found by the artists who are inspired by the Big Lake. Some choose to live here surrounded by the peace and beauty of the Northwoods; others visit seeking inspiration from the natural wonders of the Apostle Islands, sea caves and Lake Superior. September 7 – 8, 2024.

The Bayfield Apple Festival

More adventures await you! The Apple Festival is one of the best in the country! Celebrate the fall harvest in Bayfield, Wisconsin! Enjoy various apple orchard events and tours, live music, food and craft vendors, and the Spectrum Carnival.

Adventures For All Ages!

Children and adults alike can choose from a wide variety of activities. Bayfield has two wonderful playgrounds, East Dock Park Playground and Cooper Hill Playground. Bayfield Maritime Museum offers many interactive exhibits for kids to learn about the rich history of Bayfield and Lake Superior. Take an Apostle Island Cruises shuttle to spend time exploring beaches on beautiful Stockton Island , where the sand shines and nature flourishes. The island sports several hiking trails for those that like adventure.

Stockton Island Adventure and Beauty

Apostle Islands and Bayfield Experiences for Everyone

Enjoy a variety of guided boat tours filled with rich history while experiencing amazing views accessible by water during your Apostle Island Cruise . Immerse your senses in beautiful blooms, spend time getting sand between your toes, take an adventurous hike or relax at a fun outdoor concert. Make your own experience in Bayfield and the Apostle Islands this summer.

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Sailing adventures from Bayfield, Wisconsin in Apostle Islands National Lakeshore

True North Sailing Charters in Bayfield,  Wisconsin is committed to providing guests with a unique and safe Apostle Islands sailing experience. Help hoist the sails or sit back and relax as we navigate the gorgeous waterways of Lake Superior and the Apostle Islands under sail. We look forward to helping create magical moments with you and sailing into the sunset!

Sailing Adventures

Sailing trips depart from our slip location in Bayfield, Wisconsin

or Schooner Bay Marina.

Bayfield Adventure Sail

A 2 hour, 15 minute sail out of Bayfield, Wisconsin aboard "Starling" a 33' Cheoy Lee Clipper.  Set sail on Lake Superior and enjoy the sights of the North or West Channel, LaPointe, Madeline, Basswood and the surrounding islands.

Enjoy the original teak decks, two sitka spruce masts and the elegant lines that make for a classic maritime experience.  Meet at our dock located in Bayfield.

$85  per person  

$25 Children's Discount

(Private Boat Options Available) 

Apostle Islands Excursion

A 5 Hour sailing experience in Apostle Islands National Lakeshore.  Trip routes are dependent on wind and weather conditions that day as well as your preference but possibilities include visiting the sandstone shorelines, sand-spits and lighthouses in the surrounding area on Hermit, Oak, or Long Island.  Half day trips depart from our Bayfield location.

Typically we use our catamaran, Piper on half day trips. The shallow draft allows us to access secluded beaches and explore remote island coastlines. The spacious shaded solon leads to the forward trampolines that are great for sun bathing and watching the water rush past beneath you. 

$695  

Full Boat Reserved 

(Includes up to 6 guests)

Full Day in the Islands

A Full Day Sailing Adventure in the Islands. Trips depart from Schooner Bay Marina just north of Bayfield. and depending on wind and weather conditions as well as your preference set sail for Stockton, Raspberry or Manitou Islands.  Visit the historic fishing camp, Stockton Island hiking trails, or the remote Raspberry Island Lighthouse.  

Typically we use our catamaran, Echo on full day trips. The shallow draft allows us to access secluded beaches and explore remote island coastlines. The spacious and protected cock pit area insures a dry and comfortable sail in all conditions. The deck is a great spot as well for sun bathing and hanging out.

$1095 

Full boat reserved

(Includes up to 6 guests) 

Multi Day Apostle Islands Expedition

Sleep aboard and explore the Apostle Islands with the newest boat to our fleet named Echo, a Gemini Legacy 35 catamaran. Trips depart from Schooner Bay Marina just north of Bayfield. This adventure offers a prolonged scenic experience in a comfortable and stable multi-day vessel. Explore the Apostle Islands' rugged sandstone sea caves, unique lighthouses, and pristine remote beaches.

The trip includes opportunities for snorkeling, paddle-boarding, dinghy excursions, beach combing and islands trail hikes. Board Echo the night before at 7pm and sleep aboard in Schooner Bay Marina. The following morning the captain will join your group as you set sails into the islands where you stay one night at anchorage among the islands before returning the next day. 

$1995 

Two Days and Two Nights

If we are not able to go out due to weather or if you do not think it would be a good experience (due to rain, cold, etc.) you have the option to either reschedule or have a full refund.

WHAT PEOPLE ARE SAYING ABOUT TRUE NORTH SAILING

Our experience was amazing! Very relaxing! Captain Abe was very knowledgeable and even let us help him during our sailing tour. We would definitely recommend them to everyone!

It was a very pleasant time. Dusty was so helpful. The boat was in great shape. I could not have asked for anything more.

Our family of four enjoyed our sail outing tremendously. The skipper is kind and helpful, the lake and islands are beautiful, and sailing is too fun. Half of us helped crew the boat, and half of us just sat back and took it all in. Highly recommend.

Sailing Gift Cards! l Deals

Looking for an unforgettable gift for friends or family? True North Sailing Charters has got you covered. Our gift cards are the perfect way to give the gift of adventure and relaxation. Our sailing trips are a unique way to experience the beauty of the Bayfield area.  We offer a range of options for every type of sailor. Recipients can choose from a variety of trips, including day trips, sunset sails, and even overnight journeys.

A DIFFERENT KIND OF ADVENTURE

Step aboard one of our sailing yachts and feel the outside world melt away. Close your eyes. Feel the sun on your face. Breathe in the fresh Lake Superior air. Listen to the wind fill the sails and feel the waves slap against the hull.

A sailing tour offers a unique and special experience you won’t find anywhere on land. See Bayfield, Wisconsin and the Apostle Islands National Lakeshore from a new perspective.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Can I reserve a private tour? Yes! Private tours are available for up to six guests. Enjoy a romantic escape, plan the perfect anniversary, or create a one-of-a-kind family adventure. For larger groups, check out our group sailing charters. Choose your destination, and go!
• What about bad weather? Lake Superior is known for beautiful weather. Still, there may be the rare case where the weather takes a turn on the day of your charter. If it were up to us, every sailing day would be amazing. On days when it isn’t, we do our best to wait out the weather to see if it clears. Our boats will sail in light rain and other “safe weather”. Ultimately, all departures are at the sole discretion of the Captain. In cases where poor weather risks safety and we absolutely must cancel a scheduled charter, voyages will be rescheduled.
• What should I wear? On Lake Superior, the wind can add a chill to the air. Be sure to check the weather forecast on the day of your sail, and consider bringing a light jacket just in case. Storage for personal gear is available in the cabin. Light-colored clothing with long sleeves can help reduce the effects of the sun. Guests may wish to bring sunscreen along for their trip. Correct footwear is important while sailing. Decks can become wet with sea spray; we recommend comfortable, fast-drying shoes with good traction. White or light-colored soles are preferable, as dark soles can leave marks on the yacht.
• Will I get seasick? Seasickness is a reaction to unfamiliar motion while aboard a vessel. While most of our guests do not experience seasickness, a small percentage of people may be prone to seasickness. In our experience, this often includes people susceptible to other forms of motion sickness. If you do get seasick, it’s OK! Alert a crew member and we can help you overcome it. To help reduce your chances of becoming seasick: Stay above deck and breathe fresh air Look to the horizon, instead of into a phone or book Avoid the restroom and cabin area Get plenty of shade and avoid direct sunlight Sail on a full stomach, and avoid foods that may upset you

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715-513-6284

[email protected]

OUR LOCATION

232 S 1st Street

Bayfield, Wisconsin 54814

HOURS OF OPERATION

9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Daily

Open Seasonally May - October

We will actually get you into the Sea Caves!

This website will be getting retired once we get the new one built out.  Please be patient for the new one to come. 

To book call Captain Ashley @ 641-757-2796.  

Summer 2022

Ashley- 641-757-2796

Is it time to Boat Yet?

Boats launched... check

Training...check

Warm weather... Check

We are now taking booikings for the 2018 boating season.

If you would like to get out to the Sea Caves

Visit the Singing Sands of Stockton Island

Tour the lighthouses

Need a ride to your campsite

Give us a call or email

Captain Ashley 641-757-2796

Captain Peter 262-337-3078

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Apostle Islands

Apostle Islands Cave Cruisers

Explore the apostle islands with us.

sea kayak and motor boat tours to the sea caves in the apostle islands national lakeshore

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Are Apostle Islands Cruises Worth It? An Honest Review

March 15, 2024 May 27, 2023

Interested in some real-life information before booking your Apostle Islands cruises? I’ve got you.

I’ve spent a lot of time in the state of Wisconsin over the years, but boat tours aren’t usually my thing. The seasickness is real, friends, and I’m not a cruiser .

When activities on the water are presented to me as the best way to do things, though, I’ll grin and bear it because my travel-related FOMO is a way bigger deal.  That was the situation with our plans to cruise the Apostle Islands.

This is what Wisconsin bucket lists are made of, and it’s not even all that hard to do. Let me help you make it happen!

Disclosure: Please note that some of the links below may be affiliate links, including links through the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases .  At no additional cost to you, I earn a commission if you make a purchase. I won’t recommend something I have not used/would not use myself, and any income earned supports the upkeep of this site.

Are Apostle Islands cruises worth it?

Apostle Islands cruises are worth it. From the cost to any steps you need to take to keep seasickness at bay, I’d go so far as to say an Apostle Islands cruise is the best way to see the Apostle Islands National Lakeshore.

This is especially true if you’re short on time in Wisconsin. A few hours out on the water packs quite a bit of bang for your buck.

Taking an Apostle Islands Cruise: Logistics

The boat tours that get you close to each Apostle Island aren’t some basic water taxi service. These trips take pre-planning to make sure that you have a fun trip. Let’s start with where to start, naturally.

What city is closest to the Apostle Islands? 

Bayfield is the city closest to the Apostle Islands. That’s likely where your Apostle Islands cruises will begin and where you’ll find the main boat terminal. 

Note: Parking is available around the boat terminal, but watch for two-hour parking limits before you head out onto the water.

You shouldn’t just arrive in Bayfield expecting miracles the day of your cruise, though. Buy tickets online for your Apostle Islands tour through Apostle Islands Cruises , an authorized tour company with the National Park Service.

They’ll check you in using your name off of a printout, so you don’t need to do anything else upon arrival. We booked the night before without issues for a boat tour during the peak summer season , but we also had a few days to choose from during our Wisconsin trip. Some of the days during that time were indeed sold out.

If you only have one day to make this happen, make it happen by booking ahead of time.

What do I need to bring for Apostle Islands cruises?

On the day of your Apostles Islands tours, do what you need to do to counteract seasickness and get to Bayfield early if you want a seat on top. We got in line — it’s first-come first-served — a little after 9am for a 10am cruise and were among the first 10 passengers in line. Winning.

Note: There are also afternoon and evening tours available for the Grand Tour. I highly recommend the morning just in case something goes wrong with your tour, but a sunset tour on the water sounds pretty lovely, too.

There are a few cute coffee shops in Bayfield if you need to caffeinate beforehand to counteract the effects of your seasickness medication, but I wouldn’t get out of line to make that happen. Employ the buddy system as necessary.

Otherwise, make sure to bring a light jacket or sweater for your boat trip, even if it’s hot on the shore. Once that wind starts whipping, things cool down real quick. Snacks are allowed on board but available for purchase on the boat, too.

What is the best time of year to visit the Apostle Islands?

The best time of year to visit the Apostle Islands is summertime. Shoot for July and August for the best weather conditions out on the water.

If you’re taking an Apostle Islands cruise, you’ll be limited to travel during the summer and early fall for the Grand Tour. 

Tours are more limited for other tours on the islands, like the Raspberry Island Lighthouse Tour. Expect Labor Day weekend to be a cutoff point for tours outside of the Grand Tour.

For intrepid travelers interested in ice caves, you can visit the mainland ice caves during the winter months. The National Park Service recommends travel in February in that case when the ice is at its thickest. If you’re anything like me , you’re also at your thickest in February.

The BEST Apostle Islands Cruise

The most popular Apostle Islands boat tour is the Grand Tour. As I like to be where the people are to determine whether it’s worth the hype , that’s the tour we booked.

Note that Apostle Islands cruises reviews for this one are already quite good. We’re only adding to the positivity over here!

The Grand Tour is a narrated tour that takes up to three hours and travels across 55 miles. It’s extremely thorough and educational, and the only case of FOMO I felt was over not having enough time to explore the islands on land. 

There are 22 islands that make up the Apostle Islands. You get to see at least 17 on the Grand Tour, if only for a moment. Each island gets the historical treatment. You’ll leave knowing quite a bit about the Apostle Islands. In fact, it’s likely more information than you’ll ever need, even if you find yourself at a Wisconsin dive bar trivia night.

This is on top of the wildlife spotting. We saw multiple bald eagles nesting in trees and cormorants and other diving birds over the course of our tour. At stops along the way, we could see fish underneath the surface. Whitefish, herring, and lake trout all call the lake home.

Fun fact: Some of the islands have white-tailed deer and black bears, but it’s unlikely you’ll see those from the shore.

What islands make up the Apostle Islands?

The islands that make up the Apostle Islands are:

• Basswood Island
• Hermit Island
• Stockton Island
• Manitou Island
• Bear Island
• Otter Island
• Ironwood Island
• South Twin Island
• North Twin Island
• Rocky Island
• Devils Island
• Sand Island
• York Island
• Eagle Island
• Raspberry Island
• Madeline Island
• Gull Island
• Outer Island
• Michigan Island
• Long Island

As I said already, we learned about 17 out of those 22 islands on our Apostle Islands cruise. I listed them all in the order we saw them above, so just look at the top 17 if you’re really into the details. We may have seen even more on our trip — the tour company itself promises 21 out of 22 — but I jotted down islands that got some narration.

Let’s dive into what you can expect on your own Grand Tour.

You’ll start at Basswood Island and its sandstone quarries that were in operation until 1910. From there, you’ll travel to Hermit Island. Our guide referred to it as Wilson’s Island after a cranky old man named William Wilson who at one time called this one home.

This was our first glimpse of the cliffs and caverns that make this region of the state so scenic. The rocky arches here are about six feet in diameter. Adventurous folks can actually swim underneath.

Stockton Island was next. This is the largest of the islands in the national park, and the second largest overall after Madeline Island. This is the most popular island for campers, which makes it more developed than the others. It’s also home to a healthy black bear population.

We cruised by Oak Island, the tallest island with the deepest waters surrounding it, and Manitou Island.

Fun fact: “Little Manitou” nearby is a rockpile that alerts boaters to shallow waters.

Bear Island, named as such because it resembles a bear, Otter Island and its impressive tree regrowth, and Ironwood Island, named for its ironwood trees, all got a brief explainer. We lingered some at the South Twin and North Twin islands. North Twin Island is an environmentally protected place because of its virgin forest and unique wildflowers.

On Rocky Island, you’ll see evidence of three privately-owned properties that earned a special lease agreement with the park. From there, the cruise spends some time around Devils Island and its intricate caves.

This island is home to the Devils Island Lighthouse, a spot you can visit if you make it ashore on a volunteer-led tour. You’ll see this and all of the main features of the island from either side of the boat.

We were starboard, which I guess is the right side, right?

It’s time for the back end of your tour from here. See Sand Island and another lighthouse, York Island, another popular destination for Apostle Islands camping, and Eagle Island with its numerous nesting areas.

We lingered on the water for a while at Raspberry Island, home to another easily accessible lighthouse that you can tour a couple of times a week. One of the volunteers there used to be the boat captain’s high school principal, so that’s fun.

You’ll get one last view of Madeline Island before coming back to shore and wrapping your head around everything you were able to see in such a short amount of time. It was a fantastic morning out on the water, and no one barfed, not even a little.

I’m super delicate when it comes to the water, so if I can handle it, you can handle it.

More Apostle Islands Boat Tours

If you’re not able to book a Grand Tour for whatever reason, you have other options. One is taking your own boat out to one of the islands. You’ll need to pay docking fees and contend with reserved spaces for all of the guided tours out there…and also have a boat.

If that doesn’t sound like you, there are other guided excursions that are a heck of a lot less work, less luck, and less money. Book any of these tours online ahead of your travel so that you’re not disappointed upon arrival in Bayfield.

• Michigan Island Lighthouse Tour: This one takes you onto shore to explore Michigan Island and the Michigan Island Lighthouse. If you’re able, plan to climb the tower for expansive views of the islands.
• Raspberry Island Lighthouse Tour: Yes, there is more lighthouse action in the Apostle Islands. This guided tour takes you on a historic journey to the well-preserved Raspberry Island Lighthouse, naturally.
• Stockton Island Day Hiking Tour: Hit the beach and the trails of Stockton Island for about two hours on shore. Explore the island’s bogs, dunes, and pine forests. There’s an overnight option for Stockton Island if you want more time.
• Oak Island Overnight Camping Shuttle: This is exactly as it sounds. Take a shuttle for your planned overnight to Oak Island and explore the tallest of all the Apostle Islands. This one is more limited than some of the others, so plan ahead!

Another option is booking Apostle Islands kayaking tours with a private company. Escape Excursions has some great options to get closer to the sea caves with docking opportunities to explore on foot, too.

A fun kayaking tour is likely what I’d look into on a return trip to the Apostle Islands now that we have a bit of a primer on the place. If the Grand Tour is all I have to show for myself on trips to this Wisconsin wonder, though, I’ll be perfectly fine with that, too.

Can you stay on any of the Apostle Islands?

You can stay on the Apostle Islands, especially if you’re into camping. If you want to stay overnight in the national park, you need to reserve campsites well in advance. The season here is pretty short thanks to the elements.

As far as which island to target for camping, personal preference come into play for that. I mentioned this already, but you’ll find the most amenities on Stockton Island.

Getting to each island for your overnight depends on the island. If you have your own ride, docks are first come, first served, with a number of spots reserved for the national park service and guided excursions.

For Apostle Island hotels and accommodations that don’t have anything to do with camping — I don’t blame you — your only option is Madeline Island. You’ll find a variety of short-term rentals, condos, cabins, and cottages to choose from.

Use the map below to get you started:

Where to Stay in Bayfield

We were traveling from Ironwood, Michigan, on our own trip to Bayfield and the Apostle Islands. To be more efficient about it, I’d recommend staying in Bayfield the night before your morning cruise. 

Ironwood was fine, but it meant we had to get up extra early the day of our trip to make the one-hour drive there. Even if you have a later cruise, Bayfield is all kinds of cute if you’d like to linger for a while.

Much like Madeline Island, Bayfield caters to an accommodations market that favors vacation homes, short-term rentals, and cottage-style overnights. I’ve had friends rave about Lucy’s Place , a beloved bed and breakfast with the kindest hosts in Bayfield.

If you like bed and breakfasts and motel-style stays, use the map below to browse your options in Bayfield:

Apostle Islands Cruises: FAQs

What is special about the apostle islands.

The Apostle Islands are special because they show off the power and breadth of Lake Superior. From historic lighthouses to caves carved out by the water, this environment is both serene and impressive. This is the Midwest at its best.

An Apostle Island cruise is one of the best ways to get to know this part of the country.

Does anyone live on the Apostle Islands?

The Town of La Pointe on Madeline Island is the only Apostle Island with people who live on it. It’s important to note here that as a result, Madeline Island is not part of the Apostle Islands National Lakeshore.

The only other inhabitants on the islands are the critters you may encounter if you do more than a boat ride. There’s a decent population of black bears on Stockton Island and Sand Island, for example.

How do you get to the Apostle Islands?

You get to the Apostle Islands via ferry, boat tour, or personal boat. A personal boat can mean a kayak or your own boat, depending on your means.

Guided excursions are by far the easiest way to reach the islands, even if you’re seeking an overnight experience.

Are the Apostle Islands worth it?

The Apostle Islands are worth it for their natural beauty, accessibility, and potential for wildlife spotting. Book Apostle Island cruises and you can be even more efficient on your own trip to the Apostle Islands, Wisconsin.

I’d love to return for a longer stay to explore more of Bayfield, WI, and the islands that allow stopovers. There are more adventures waiting in this scenic part of the state!

Ready for the Best Apostle Island Tours?

Your Flight:  I use a variety of tools to find cheap airfare, but if you’re looking to book during a particular period of time, especially during busy times (e.g. summer school breaks, you should use  Skyscanner . It’s a great tool for when you’re more flexible, too, as it allows you to compare travel based on length of travel, departure date, etc.

To get to the Apostle Islands, you’ll need to get to Bayfield, first, and Northern Wisconsin can feel pretty remote. Here are a few sample drive times:

• Duluth, Minnesota: 1 hour and 45 minutes
• Eau Claire, Wisconsin: 3 hours
• Minneapolis, Minnesota: 4 hours
• Madison, Wisconsin: 5 hours and 30 minutes
• Milwaukee, Wisconsin: 6 hours and 20 minutes
• Chicago, Illinois: 7 hours and 30 minutes

If you’re on a road trip already as you plan Apostle Island boat tours, you’re most likely to find deals out of Minneapolis–Saint Paul International Airport, Milwaukee Mitchell International Airport, or Chicago’s O’Hare International Airport.

You’ll need a car to explore Bayfield no matter where you land. Book a rental ahead of time using an aggregator like Hotwire  or  Priceline  before your trip.

Adventurous folks should subscribe to  Going , formerly Scott’s Cheap Flights. You’ll get all kinds of deals in your inbox throughout the year.

Your Accommodations:  I usually use  Booking.com  and  Hotels.com  for our hotel needs. My favorite Airbnb alternative these days is  Vrbo . If you’re seeking an overnight in Bayfield, scroll up for my top picks.

Seeking even more wallet-friendly accommodations? Try  Hostelworld . Much like my Apostle Island cruises reviews, their picks are heavily vetted and reviewed to offer you a safe experience on a budget.

Etc.:  For general travel goodies, visit my  Favorite Things  page. For more information on planning your travel, visit my  Travel Tools  page.

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Looking for more Midwest content ? Check out my posts below:

• New Glarus Beer: How Good Is it, Really ?
• Top Things to Do in New Glarus, WI
• Be a Kid Again & Visit the Real Field of Dreams
• A Guide to the Underrated Bay City, Michigan
• Eat Your Way Through Chicago’s Humboldt Park

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Agnes Groonwald

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Alerts in effect, jewels of lake superior.

Imagine that moment, being in that perfect spot as the sun rises, and everything comes into focus. A rocky shoreline suddenly reflects the world around you. Waiting for you among the water, land, forests, and history is that moment. How will the islands inspire you?

Everything you might need to know as you start planning your trip.

The park is open year-round; however, changing conditions can dictate what areas are accessible. Check the conditions before setting out.

With or without a boat, everyone can still visit the islands.

While there is no entrance fee, there are some parking, docking, camping costs to be aware of.

Learn about all the places to visit on the mainland and on the islands.

Apostle Islands Cruises offers a variety of nonstop sightseeing excursions and island shuttles featuring stops at several islands.

Not ready to experience the Big Lake by yourself? A guided trip can be a fun and safe way to see the park from a different perspective.

Find boat, sailing, & fishing charters, guided kayak trips & rentals, and water taxis.

We have the beautiful, secluded campsite you're looking for.

Everything you need to know as you plan your kayak trip to the Apostle Islands.

Get out and explore the islands in a sail boat or motor boat.

Ojibwe culture is saturated with a relationship to this place, these islands, & all of the natural world around us.

Want to learn about the park? Need something fun to do at home? We've got activities for you!

Sit back and take a virtual trip through the Apostle Islands, all from the comfort of your own home.

Last updated: June 16, 2022

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PO Box 770 Bayfield, WI 54814

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