Is there a restroom onboard?

Yes, the boat is equipped with restroom facilities for passenger convenience.

Can I bring my own food and drinks?

Yes, you are welcome to bring a packed lunch and refreshments.

Are children allowed?

Absolutely, this tour is family-friendly and suitable for children of all ages.

Dress in layers, and bring a waterproof jacket if rain is forecast.

Is there scenic sailing outside of peak season?

Yes, the cruise operates during the warmer months and offers beautiful scenery from late spring through early fall.

How do I prepare for marine weather conditions?

Check the weather forecast before your trip and bring appropriate gear for wind and rain.

Water-Activities & Scenic Lighthouse Tour with Friends of Plum and Pilot Islands

Located in the scenic waters between Door County, Wisconsin, and Michigan's Garden Peninsula, the Private Out-Island Cruise offers an immersive 5-6 hour maritime adventure that highlights the region’s rugged coastline and historic maritime sites. This boat charter stands out for its combination of natural beauty, rich history, and personalized exploration. As you set sail, you'll marvel at towering limestone cliffs and pass by intriguing shipwreck sites that tell tales of the area's nautical past. The journey takes you past remote islands, including the renowned Plum and Pilot Islands, visiting their historic lighthouse stations that have guided seafarers for generations. The cruise provides stunning views of limestone formations sculpted over thousands of years, showcasing the geological forces that shaped this remote shoreline. The trip is perfect for explorers eager to see untouched natural beauty combined with intriguing maritime history. It is an ideal adventure for visitors looking to escape the crowds and discover lesser-known gems in Lake Michigan. The crew offers insights into local lore and the significance of the lighthouses, making it both an educational and scenic experience. Because the cruise is customizable, travelers can bring along a picnic and indulge in a scenic lunch amid the waves, making for an unforgettable day on the water. This cruise contributes to the region’s conservation efforts by promoting appreciation and respect for the local maritime environment. Whether you're an avid photographer, history buff, or just seeking a peaceful escape, this voyage offers striking views and memorable moments that highlight why this part of Lake Michigan is a standout destination. The crew's friendly hospitality ensures a welcoming atmosphere for all ages, turning a boat trip into a true outdoor adventure.

About Friends of Plum and Pilot Islands

Friends of Plum and Pilot Islands is a volunteer-driven nonprofit based in Ellison Bay, Wisconsin, dedicated to promoting, preserving, and providing access to the natural and maritime heritage of Plum and Pilot Islands. The organization organizes guided cruises, workshops, and private charters that visit historic lighthouses, life-saving stations, shipwreck sites, and the unique ecosystems of the Niagara Escarpment. Trips include photography workshops with a 14-person limit, lighthouse cruises with stops on Plum Island, private out-island and Rock Island State Park tours, a Fayette State Park ghost town cruise, a Monarch butterfly tagging cruise, and custom private charters aboard The Shoreline.

Friends of Plum and Pilot Islands partners with subject-matter experts and regional organizations for educational programs, including a Niagara Escarpment Field Day with Don Mikulic from the Niagara Escarpment Resource Network. Events focus on hands-on learning, natural history, and maritime preservation while offering scenic hiking, picnicking, and interpretive commentary. The group’s public programs support ongoing preservation and interpretation of Range Lights, the historic Life Saving Station, and other island resources.

Visitors book directly for scheduled lighthouse cruises, workshops, and passport days, or arrange private and custom charters for groups. Safety briefings, interpretive guidance, and small-group formats are emphasized to protect fragile island habitats and historic structures. Friends of Plum and Pilot Islands maintains a transparent program schedule from Ellison Bay and works with local partners to ensure reliable access to Plum and Pilot Islands for education and conservation. Online reservations and detailed trip itineraries are available spring through fall annually.