My boyfriend and I decided to head up to Lake Superior because we had never been there before and have heard nothing but good things about it. We had friends go to the Apostle Islands so we figured why not check it out. We took the ferry from Bayfield to Madeline Island and spent the next 2 nights, 3 days at Big Bay State Park. It was absolutely beautiful and we really enjoyed ourselves and the much needed relaxation away from the city :)
We wanted to explore and make the most out of our weekend so we looked into kayak tours through Adventure Vacations. Located in La Pointe, and only a 10 minute drive from Big Bay, there were different hourly tours you could choose from. Be very cautious about the weather tho and pick a day where there's very little chance of rain/storms. After much consideration and exploring our options.... We decided to do the 7 hour boat tour. SO WORTH IT. hands down. They have other options (3 and 5 hour) for different prices. Ours cost 180 total (with tax). Let me explain why it was worth it....
There were 6 of us, 7 including the guide. Our guides name was Drew and he was very nice and very knowledgeable throughout the whole ride. Pack a change of clothes & even a rain coat. Our morning started off foggy & cool with light rain later on. You are on a boat with little shelter all day remember! We left at 9 am and our first stop was to a shipwreck off the State of Wisconsin, which happened over 100 years ago. Very cool because you can legitimately see it through the clear Superior waters. Next up, Raspberry Island. Luckily, the weather started clearing up with abundant sunshine! We got off the boat and had 45 minutes of free time, so we took a small hike to the beach and back. There is a lighthouse located on the island as well and you're able to take a tour for 10 or so bucks. Even better, the raspberry bushes! Fresh raspberries to pick and eat. Yum! We set off for Devils Island next. Oh man, I cannot begin to explain the beauty of this island. Google it. Or just take the tour and experience it yourself. Drew took us inside one of the caves on the boat, something I have never experienced. We continued around to the top of the island, anchored the boat and got kayak ready. We kayaked through these caves and around part of the island for roughly 45 minutes. Make sure you have a waterproof case for your camera and take tons of pictures! It was so cool to hear the water hitting the cave walls. It was like creating their own kind of music. I can't even imagine what it would be like if a storm came through up there. Drew told us we got very lucky that day with how calm the waters & winds were. From my understanding it can get very choppy up there. Now we're off to Stockton Island. Throughout this boat ride too, let me remind you, you are driving by and through the islands. Located on the edge of Stockton Island is the balancing rock. VERY cool. VERY beautiful. We made a pit stop at another beach before making our way back to Madeline Island.
If you're hesitant to spend the money on these tours, like I mentioned earlier, I highly recommend the 7 hour tour. As soon as my boyfriend and I got back to Madeline Island, we both agreed it was worth every penny spent. We both are able to tell people we saw ALL 22 Apostle Islands. Definitely get the most out of it! Ask your guide any and every question. It was awesome getting to know the History of these islands. My boyfriend even managed to get a cliff jump in on Devils Island. I skipped, because the water was too cold for me :)
I can't thank Adventure Vacations & Drew enough for this amazing experience. We will be back! read more