Set sail on Lake Michigan with Sail Door County in Sister Bay. Discover classic schooner trips that blend hands-on sailing with stunning views and local history.
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
2–3 hours
Fitness Level
Minimal physical exertion is required; suitable for most ages and fitness levels
Wildlife
History
Door County’s schooners have a rich past tied to fishing and shipping on the Great Lakes, preserved today by operators like Sail Door County.
Conservation
Sail Door County prioritizes minimal environmental impact, maintaining clean vessels and educating passengers on preserving Lake Michigan’s ecosystem.
Sail Door County
Set sail on Lake Michigan with Sail Door County in Sister Bay. Discover classic schooner trips that blend hands-on sailing with stunning views and local history.
Sail Door County is a sailing operator based in Sister Bay, Wisconsin, offering private and public charters on a fleet of classic and modern sailing vessels.
The company operates the Pearson Rhodes 41' White Wings, available exclusively for private charters, providing a maintained classic yacht for personalized outings. The tall ship Friendly serves intimate two-hour charters, accommodating six guests for guided sails on Egg Harbor. Passage North, a Cal40, runs public day and sunset sails and can also be booked for private tours, blending modern performance with flexible scheduling. The iconic tall ship Edith M Becker offers two-hour sailing charters with experienced captains and crew; guests may participate in sailing duties or relax while observing Door County scenery.
All vessels operate from Sister Bay and nearby harbors, following local safety standards and crewed by trained captains and crew familiar with Door County waters. Charters include private options and scheduled public sails, with durations commonly around two hours for the tall ship experiences. Booking options typically specify private versus public availability and group size limits, such as the six-guest capacity on Friendly. Vessel types range from classic Rhodes designs to modern Cal40 and traditional tall ships, offering varied sailing experiences for passengers seeking relaxed sightseeing, hands-on sailing, or private celebrations. Sail Door County focuses on delivering dependable sailing experiences rooted in well-maintained vessels, qualified crew, and a range of charter formats suited to visitors in Door County, Wisconsin. Reservations are available seasonally and typically require advance booking for preferred dates online.
Fleet Size
4 vessels
Classic and modern sailboats
Location
Sister Bay, WI
Door County departure point
Typical Duration
2 hours
Common for tall ship charters
Intimate Groups
6 guests (Friendly)
Small-group sails available
Book a private or public sail on White Wings, Friendly, Passage North, or Edith M Becker — advance booking is recommended.
Book Early for Peak Times
Trips can fill quickly during summer and weekends, especially for popular routes like Eagle Bluff lighthouse.
Bring Layers and Sun Protection
Lake breezes can be cool even on warm days, and sun exposure on open water is strong.
Sea Conditions Vary Quickly
Be prepared for changing wind and wave conditions; listen to the captain’s safety instructions closely.
Bring Snacks and Drinks
Food and beverages are allowed onboard, so packing your favorite refreshments enhances the experience.
Windbreaker or Light Jacket
Protects against lake winds which can be chillier than onshore temperatures.
spring|fall|summer
Non-slip footwear
Ensures safe footing on wet decks during sailing.
Sunscreen
Vital for skin protection under prolonged sun exposure on open water.
summer|spring|fall
Hat and Sunglasses
Reduces glare and shields face and eyes from the sun's reflection off the water.
summer|spring|fall