Private Boat Charters with Friends of Plum and Pilot Islands
Difficulty
easy
Duration
2–4 hours
Fitness Level
Minimal physical fitness needed; suitable for all ages
Overview
Set sail on a private boat charter with Friends of Plum and Pilot Islands to witness Door County's dramatic cliffs, shipwrecks, and secluded beaches. Customize your route or opt for the classic Deaths Door Lighthouse Cruise aboard a spacious, catered vessel.
Custom Private Charter
Starting at $525 • 2 Hour Minimum
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About This Adventure
Experience the beauty of the waters with "The Shoreline" Private Charters. Choose from the scenic Deaths Door Lighthouse Cruise or create your own adventure, exploring hidden gems like Schoolhouse Beach and the Louisiana shipwreck. Enjoy a spacious boat with catering options, perfect for unforgettable family gatherings or group outings.
##Duration Starting at 2 Hours
##About your cruise: "The Shoreline" Private Charters. Our boat is available for private charter by your family or group. You can choose our popular Deaths Door Lighthouse Cruise route or design your own custom tour. Would you like to cruise up the rarely seen west side of Washington Island, seeing some of the county's highest cliffs, on the way to famous Schoolhouse Beach, the Louisiana shipwreck, and even to Rock Island? We can do that!
Our boat has a large aft deck with a table and plenty of room for food, snacks, and beverages. Catering available. Private charters are available any day of the week with advance notice.
2-hour private charter: $525 Add the Plum Island Package where we dock at Plum Island for 30 minutes or so and you can get off and walk around the historic lifesaving station, boathouse and beach areas. $595. Most of our Private Charters depart from Gills Rock. Pick up on Washington island available for an additional $100.
3 hours or more: $175 to $225 an hour, depending on location.
Customize our private charters to your needs. For more information contact us, theshorelinecruises@gmail.com .
Adventure Tips
Book in Advance
Private charters require advance notice to customize your route and secure preferred dates.
Dress in Layers
Lake Michigan’s weather can shift quickly; bring a windbreaker and sun protection.
Bring a Camera
The mix of historic lighthouses and rugged shores offers excellent photo opportunities.
Consider Seasickness Medication
The straits can get choppy; if you’re prone to seasickness, take preventive measures.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Bald eagles soaring over the straits
- Migratory waterfowl during spring and fall
History
The Deaths Door Strait earned its name for rough waters that challenged mariners, while Plum Island hosts one of the region’s few remaining lifesaving stations.
Conservation
Friends of Plum and Pilot Islands actively support preservation of the islands’ natural habitats and promote responsible, low-impact boating practices.
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Adventure Hotspots in Green Bay
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Windbreaker Jacket
Protects against cool, lake winds especially common in spring and fall.
spring specific
Sunscreen
Shields your skin from intense sun reflecting off the water during summer cruises.
summer specific
Polarized Sunglasses
Reduces glare on the water and improves visibility for photography.
Motion Sickness Pills
Helpful for those prone to seasickness in choppy waters across all seasons.