Most days, if there is any sort of wind, we are cooler than the rest of the region. But, on those days where it seems miserably muggy, there is still a solution – go swimming! There is nothing quite as refreshing as taking a dip in this beautiful lake to cool off. So, while it maybe miserably muggy everywhere else around us, we don’t mind! We’ve got this wonderful lake keeping us cool and comfortable.

History comes to life with the traditional Blessing Ceremony this Sunday, June 12th at 1:00pm: commercial fishing boats, tugs, powerboats, sailboats, excursion and transportation craft, and rowboats parade through Bayfield’s City Harbor. As they pass by the tip of the pier, clergy from the Apostle Islands community grant each vessel a blessing for safe passage and a prosperous season on Lake Superior. Lake Superior is Bayfield’s lifeblood. The Lake has drawn countless people to this area, from the Ojibwe, to the fur traders and missionaries, to commercial fishermen, and finally to tourists and pleasure boaters. In the late 1950′s Bayfield inaugurated the Blessing of the Fleet to honor its fishing families who formed the backbone of the area’s economy.

This event is open to all boaters, from kayaks and rowboats to fishing and sailboats. The Ferry Line has even been known to bring a few of their boats through for the annual blessing. Come to Memorial Park for a brief ecumenical service before the ceremony and then enjoy seeing the variety of boats get their blessing for a happy, safe and bountiful boating season.

If you are interested in participating in the Blessing, feel free to contact the Bayfield Chamber with any questions at 715-779-3335 or email Erin at erin@bayfield.org.

The Apostle Islands have long been a mecca for boaters and sailers.  The island’s protected bays, public docks, pristine beaches, historic sites and natural beauty offer outstanding boating opportunities.

Whether you are a seasoned sailor or complete novice, you will feel at home. Take the time to learn from the USCG licensed captain or simply sit back and enjoy the ride. This year Dreamcatcher is  offering a premium Sea Caves Trip (July & August) from Cornucopia Harbor in addition to their Apostle Islands trip out of Bayfield.

Dreamcatcher is Travel Green Wisconsin certified and provides a true eco-tour on each trip. Whether viewing bird life or learning the ideosycracies of Lake Superior, you can sense their dedication to operating with respect for the enviroment.

The Pinehurst By Sea Sailing Package offers a great chance to experience Dreamcatcher. If the package doesn’t fit your schedule, let us know and we can customize for you.  We look forward to hearing your sailing stories!

Each package is priced and booked separately.

Pinehurst Inn & Dreamcatcher Sailing Package

Enjoy a two night stay with all Pinehurst Inn amenities plus the Dreamcatcher Island Landing Excursion for two people (includes lunch). Throw in two $5 Enso vouchers and you’ve got a package! Check out our more detailed information.

Rates range from $528 – $688 (includes everything except room and sales tax). Call 877-499-7651 or book online.

Pinehurst Inn & Living Adventure Kayaking Package

This two night package offers lodging in combination with the Living Adventures full day Sea Caves Trip for 2 (includes lunch).  $5 discounts for each person are provide for Enso Day Spa. Our kayak package detail page provides more information.

Rates range from $433 – $585 (includes everything except room and sales tax for lodging). Call 877-499-7951 or book online. This package will end September 11, 2011.

Pinehurst Inn Biking Package with Bayfield Bike Route

This two night package provides great lodging along with bike rental for two with Bayfield Bike Route. We will happily provide a variety of options for route that fit your expertise. Also includes box lunches for two from Big Water Cafe.  Want more details? Check out our Bike Package page.

Rates range from $296-$456 depending on room booked. Call 877-499-7651 or book online.

Pinehurst Inn Golf Package with Apostle Highlands Golf Course

Stay two nights and enjoy a $10 discount on greens fees (18 holes) at Apostle Highlands Golf Course. Throw in two drink chips and life is good. Room rates vary from $119 – $199 per night.  More information…

Offer is valid through the season. Must be requested at time of reservation. For more information or to book this package call 877-499-7651 or book online.

Sail Magazine lists Bayfield as one of the top ten places to sail in America and once you’re here, you’ll know why. Explore places that provide pristine sand beaches amidst crystal clear water of Lake Superior, hearing only the periodic luff of the sails and the swishing sounds as the boat cuts through the water.

Dreamcatcher Sailing, Bayfield, Wisconsin just announced that their charter sailing is open for the 2010 season, offering sailing every day with two options. The Island Excursion runs from 9:30am – 2:30pm as they sail out to one of the Apostle Islands where they may anchor in the island’s protection to enjoy the fresh catered lunch or use their zodiac to explore the beaches or perhaps take a swim.

The second option is the Afternoon Sail running from 3:00pm – 5:30pm. This shorter sail provides a taste of sailing the Apostles. The option is there to either sit, relax as the captain manages the boat, or be active as you take the helm or trim the sails.

Captain John Thiel and his crew do a superb job of helping novice sailors learn about sailing, about Lake Superior, the islands and more as noted by their tagline: “Hands On Apostle Island Sailing Adventures.” Dreamcatcher is also Travel Green certified – John has done a great job of finding a variety of ways to operate his boats with an eye to energy conservation and more. Take some time to chat with him about this approach to running his sail charter business.

Have you sailed the Apostle Islands or with Dreamcatcher? Share your stories and photos.

photo credit: Dreamcatcher Sailing