Come Sail Away in Door County
Published
If you’ve ever dreamed of packing a (waterproof) bag, boarding a stately sea vessel, and sailing into the sunset, Door County should be your next port of call.
Not only is the scenery gorgeous, the lake sparkling, and the offshore entertainment plentiful, the unique topography and weather patterns on Lake Michigan make the Door region a sailor’s dream.
Even if you’re just an aspiring seafarer without on-deck experience, local businesses can help you get your sea legs with sailboat rides, tours, classes, and special-occasion celebrations.
If you do own your own sailboat, check out local marinas and boat launches to plan your trip. Or, if paddle-powered boating is more your speed, Door County is a kayaking paradise with plenty of places to drop in on the lake or other waterways.
Sailboat Rides & Tours
Sail Door County
Sail out of Sister Bay on one of two large sailboats, including the Edith M. Becker, a stunning 65-foot schooner. Passengers can help the crew with sailing duties or just sit back, relax, and take in the amazing views of lighthouses, rocky shorelines, bluffs, and the sunset.
Bella Sailing Cruises
If shorelines, rock formations, islands, and views of historic Ephraim are on your to-see list, Bella Sailing Cruises in Ephraim is an ideal choice. Enjoy iconic scenery, BYOB refreshments, and a relaxing boat ride as an experienced captain pilots the boat for you.
SailTime Door County - Sturgeon Bay
In addition to its membership-based boat rentals, SailTime offers multi-day sailboat rides and tours, plus classes, for those who want a taste of nautical life without the commitment of owning and maintaining a boat.
Sailboat Rentals
Door County Boat Rentals
Explore the waters surrounding Sturgeon Bay via a rental sailboat. Renting a boat is the perfect way for families, couples, and small groups to get out on the water on their own and gain some sailing and boating experience.
SimpleSail Charters - Sturgeon Bay
At SimpleSail, guests with sailing experience can charter a sailboat for a day, a weekend, a week, or even longer. Pilot your boat, stop at nearby towns to dine and see the sights, and enjoy the freedom of sailing your own vessel across the waters of Lake Michigan.
Sailing Classes
Ephraim Yacht Club - Ephraim
Looking to take a few sailing lessons during your summer break? The Ephraim Yacht Club offers private lessons as well as week-long or two-week-long classes. If you’re an experienced sailor with a boat of your own, the club is also a quiet and beautiful place to dock while you’re in town.
SailTime DoorCounty
In addition to memberships and rides/tours (above), SailTime Door County also offers sailing lessons and classes for those interested in learning proper technique.
More on the Sailing Experience
From the picturesque lake, public islands, and terrific shoreline views to the region’s unique topography and wind patterns, Door County is a wildly underrated place to set sail. Hear a local sailboat captain and his passengers describe why sailing is a can’t-miss activity.
Setting Sail this Summer?
Brush up on water safety guidelines and be sure to leave no trace of your adventure before debarking
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