THE ADVENTURE COLLECTIVE® · Independent discovery and booking for outdoor travel
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.
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.
Bayfield, Wisconsin, sits on the southern tip of Lake Superior, serving as the gateway to the Apostle Islands National Lakeshore—a cluster of 22 islands known for rugged sandstone sea caves, dense northern forests, and clear, cold waters. All Hands Sailing takes full advantage of this remarkable setting with a suite of day and multi-day sailing trips that showcase the Apostle Islands from a uniquely intimate vantage point. Their fleet, led by skilled captains like Marlin and Brontë, offers options tailored for every level of interest and engagement, from serene afternoon sails to more immersive multi-day excursions.
The hallmark of an All Hands trip is the balance between education, hands-on sailing, and natural discovery. On shorter trips like the Private Apostle Islands Discovery or Bayfield Gateway Sail, guests often have the chance to participate in raising the sails, learning essential knots, and even steering the boat through steady lake winds. Longer trips, such as the Overnight Highlights 3-Day Sail or the 4-Day Around the Islands Tour, combine wilderness camping, cliff jumping, swimming in hidden caves, and visits to historic quarries.
Verified experiences and guided adventures in the surrounding area.
Operated by All Hands Sailing · Bayfield, Wisconsin
The Apostle Islands area is defined by its distinctive sandstone formations sculpted over millennia, providing dramatic cliffs and caves that hover just above the water line. Wildlife sightings include bald eagles and common loons, and unique flora such as boreal forests add to the richness of the experience. The region’s maritime history, once a hub for fishing, quarrying, and shipping, is woven into the narrative captains share during the sail.
What makes All Hands Sailing especially remarkable is their personalized approach—small groups and attentive captains create an atmosphere that welcomes families, solo travelers, and seasoned sailors alike. The company’s commitment to quality and knowledge ensures that each outing is not only picturesque but also deeply informative and engaging. For anyone seeking a fresh perspective on Lake Superior’s wild beauty, All Hands Sailing offers an unforgettable, hands-on adventure right from Bayfield’s waterfront.
moderate.
2 hours to 4 days.
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.
No prior experience is necessary. Captains provide hands-on instruction and welcome guests to participate at their comfort level.
Yes, families with children are welcome. Trips can be customized to accommodate varying ages and activity levels.
Bring layered clothing, sunscreen, water, and a camera. Swimwear and towels are recommended for trips including swimming.
Group sizes are kept small to ensure a personalized, intimate experience with expert guidance from the captain.
Pets are allowed on certain trips, but it's best to check in advance for specific policies and requirements.
Weather can vary widely on Lake Superior; cool breezes and sudden rain are common, so come prepared for shifting conditions.
The Apostle Islands were historically a hub for Ojibwe tribes and later became key quarry and fishing locations through the 19th and 20th centuries.
All Hands Sailing operates with a commitment to minimizing environmental impact, practicing Leave No Trace principles to protect delicate island ecosystems.
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.
Bayfield, Wisconsin, sits on the southern tip of Lake Superior, serving as the gateway to the Apostle Islands National Lakeshore—a cluster of 22 islands known for rugged sandstone sea caves, dense northern forests, and clear, cold waters. All Hands Sailing takes full advantage of this remarkable setting with a suite of day and multi-day sailing trips that showcase the Apostle Islands from a uniquely intimate vantage point. Their fleet, led by skilled captains like Marlin and Brontë, offers options tailored for every level of interest and engagement, from serene afternoon sails to more immersive multi-day excursions.
The hallmark of an All Hands trip is the balance between education, hands-on sailing, and natural discovery. On shorter trips like the Private Apostle Islands Discovery or Bayfield Gateway Sail, guests often have the chance to participate in raising the sails, learning essential knots, and even steering the boat through steady lake winds. Longer trips, such as the Overnight Highlights 3-Day Sail or the 4-Day Around the Islands Tour, combine wilderness camping, cliff jumping, swimming in hidden caves, and visits to historic quarries.
The Apostle Islands area is defined by its distinctive sandstone formations sculpted over millennia, providing dramatic cliffs and caves that hover just above the water line. Wildlife sightings include bald eagles and common loons, and unique flora such as boreal forests add to the richness of the experience. The region’s maritime history, once a hub for fishing, quarrying, and shipping, is woven into the narrative captains share during the sail.
What makes All Hands Sailing especially remarkable is their personalized approach—small groups and attentive captains create an atmosphere that welcomes families, solo travelers, and seasoned sailors alike. The company’s commitment to quality and knowledge ensures that each outing is not only picturesque but also deeply informative and engaging. For anyone seeking a fresh perspective on Lake Superior’s wild beauty, All Hands Sailing offers an unforgettable, hands-on adventure right from Bayfield’s waterfront.