Set sail on Lake Superior with All Hands Sailing from Bayfield, Wisconsin, and experience the Apostle Islands up close. Whether it’s a half-day trip or a multi-day journey, each excursion combines hands-on sailing with stunning natural wonders of this rugged lakeshore.
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Difficulty
moderate
Duration
2 hours to 4 days
Fitness Level
Moderate fitness ideal; able to move easily on a boat and participate in light physical activity such as climbing in and out of the boat, swimming, and hiking on islands.
Wildlife
History
The Apostle Islands were historically a hub for Ojibwe tribes and later became key quarry and fishing locations through the 19th and 20th centuries.
Conservation
All Hands Sailing operates with a commitment to minimizing environmental impact, practicing Leave No Trace principles to protect delicate island ecosystems.
All Hands Sailing
Set sail on Lake Superior with All Hands Sailing from Bayfield, Wisconsin, and experience the Apostle Islands up close. Whether it’s a half-day trip or a multi-day journey, each excursion combines hands-on sailing with stunning natural wonders of this rugged lakeshore.
All Hands Sailing is a Bayfield, Wisconsin-based sailing company offering guided voyages around the Apostle Islands National Lakeshore. Founded to share hands-on sailing experiences, All Hands Sailing runs a mix of half-day sails, full-day excursions, overnight trips and multi-day island tours that showcase sea caves, sandstone shorelines, and quiet anchorages.
Captains and crew hold appropriate credentials and guide guests through safe, educational, and engaging outings. Trips range from short 2.25-hour gateway sails to 5.5-hour Apostle Islands Discovery cruises, full-day adventures with dinghy exploration, and extended 2‑, 3‑, and 4‑day island tours with onboard overnight stays. Private charter options and pet-friendly sails are available.
Each voyage blends active participation with relaxation: guests can take the helm, learn seamanship, help navigate, or simply enjoy the scenery. Zodiac dinghy excursions provide access to secluded beaches and sea caves for swimming and exploration. On longer trips, licensed captains teach navigation basics and local history while steering to scenic anchorages.
All Hands Sailing operates from Bayfield, a well-known Great Lakes sailing port, and partners with local restaurants for post-sail dinners on select full-day itineraries. Safety briefings, life jackets, and clear trip itineraries are provided to ensure comfortable experiences for a range of skill levels. Reservations are recommended, especially for private and multi-day trips.
With a focus on authentic, educational, and accessible sailing around the Apostle Islands, All Hands Sailing offers memorable outings for couples, families, small groups, and solo travelers seeking outdoor adventure on Lake Superior. Advance reservations are recommended and accepted through online booking.
Base Location
Bayfield, WI
Launch point for Apostle Islands sails
Tours Offered
9
Range of day and multi-day trips
Typical Durations
Half-day–4 days
Short sails to multi-day island tours
Private & Pet-friendly
Available
Private charters and pet options offered
Check availability and secure a spot on a Bayfield departure — choose private or shared sails today.
Arrive Early for Check-In
Give yourself extra time before departure for a smooth boarding process and a quick briefing on safety and sailing basics.
Bring Layers for Variable Weather
Lake Superior’s weather can shift quickly—pack windbreakers and warm layers even on sunny days.
Don’t Forget Your Swimwear
Many trips include stops for swimming in secluded caves or jumping from cliffs, so be ready to dive in.
Be Prepared for Seasickness
If sensitive to motion, consider prophylactic remedies or position yourself near the center of the boat where movement is minimal.
Waterproof Windbreaker
Protects against lake winds and sudden rain showers during sailing.
spring|summer|fall
Non-Slip Deck Shoes
Provides stable footing on wet boat decks and rocky shorelines.
summer|spring|fall
Swimsuit and Towel
Ready for swimming stops or cliff jumping excursions.
summer
Layered Clothing
Allows adjustment to changing temperatures on open water.
spring|fall