Lake Superior Inner Passage Expedition

A seven day expedition in a 30' ocean class Zodiac Hurricane RHIB.

Discover the rugged and isolated Canadian shoreline of Lake Superior and through its inner passage. Embark on this epic safari from Thunder Bay to Terrace Bay with Sail Superior's Superior Rocket. See over 300 NM (500km) of the world's largest freshwater lake.

From winding river travels to cascading waterfalls, enjoy the warm welcome of traditional Finnish saunas and historical coastal communities.

Practicing 'Leave No Trace' principles throughout the trip, learn proper methods used in backcountry camping and minimalistic travel.

  • Departures: EASTBOUND 10 AM July 14 1,2024 to July 21 2024 and WESTBOUND July 21 2024 to July 28 2024
  • Duration: Seven full days
  • Meals: All provisions included.
  • Zodiac Rocket
    Capacity: Maximum 8 Persons

    All weather PFDs, (Mustang Floatation Suits) and goggles included. 

  • $5995 Single Twin, $6495 Private Room + HST
  • High wind can cause large waves. We will adjust speed and route to minimize the affect but be prepared to encounter possible rough conditions on the Zodiac. Hiking varies from  Medium to Hard (optional).

Honestly-Highlight of my trip.
B. L., Kingston, ON

Tour Highlights

(Day One: Green Track)

Departing from Thunder Bay we head south along the rugged shoreline to The Welcome Island natural bird breeding and nesting grounds of Blue Herron, American Pelican, bald eagle and cormorants make their homes. Continuing southerly, we cruise between the territory of the Fort William First Nation on the mainland and on Pie Island, out towards South McKellar Island mine shafts. 

Continuing on, we travel in the shadow of Pie Island towards the heights of the Sleeping Giant. Past the lighthouses at Angus and Trowbridge, the eerie mineshaft of the once richest silver mine in the world, on to the ever famous Sea Lion before heading to the rich stories of Silver Islet. The day comes to a close with a peaceful dinner at the newly constructed General Store.

Capacity and
Departure Times

  • Departure times: 10 AM July 14 2024

  • Individual reservations and pricing. Maximum capacity of 8 persons for each direction Eastbound or Westbound

  • Duration: Seven days including transportation to or from Thunder Bay from Terrace Bay  The shuttle coach will include scenic stops at Ouimet Canyon and Terry Fox lookout. 

  • Booking: Reservations are available per person. Booking as a group can have its advantages contact us.

  • Good To Know: To ensure the comfort and enjoyment of all passengers, take a look at our suggested 'Packing List' to best prepare for your adventure.

  • All shore lunches and dinners included. Breakfast we leave up to you. With a collection of culinary treasures along the way, each evening you'll find yourself enjoying a new local specialty. The coach ride will have a light lunch and various snacks. 

  • Sightseeing: A opportunity around every bend, the picturesque landscapes, native wildlife and regional legends deliver bountiful memories.  

  • Hiking: With a variety of destinations, there is the option for numerous hiking excursions ranging in levels from light to difficult.  

  • Washroom facilities: The Rocket is not equipped with a head. This trip includes moments of front country camp-style adventure and often primitive restroom accommodations. The Sail Superior crew will come prepared with necessary supplies and knowledge so everyone can feel confident and comfortable!  We may be hours at a time between stops. Please keep this in mind when booking. Backcountry eco friendly practises will be taught.

  • Save Time! 

    Download the waiver for all on-shore adventures here and bring it with you on tour day. 

Zodiac Rocket

Ready to Book?

Pricing

  • All inclusive twin share $5995.00/p + HST 

  • All inclusive single person room $6495.00/p + HST

Amenities & Facilities

PROHIBITED: Smoking, e-cigarettes, vaping
PROHIBITED: Cannabis use
PROHIBITED: bring your own alcohol
PROHIBITED: high-heeled shoes
NOT AVAILABLE: Onboard Restroom
NOT ALLOWED: Pets
Non-Accessible
AVAILABLE: Bilingual
AVAILABLE: All weather (rain or shine)
AVAILABLE: PFDs provided
ALLOWED: Swimming
ALLOWED: Children

 

  • Swimming (at select times with direct Captain consent) 
  • Sanitized Personal Floatation Devices
  • Bilingual Services (by request) 
  • Children 
  • Smoking of any kind
  • Vaping/ e-cigarettes 
  • Cannabis use 
  • Bringing your own alcohol
  • Pets 
    •  

Frequently Asked Questions

Parking and Pre-Tour Tips

Parking and Pre-Tour Tips for Your Sail Superior Experience:

1. Parking Locations: Avoid parking at the pier ends where “Authorised Boater Parking Only” signs are placed; those spots are for boat owners. Instead, consider parking options like:

  • Across from the skate park
  • Near Bight Restaurant
  • Around the Delta hotel area
  • In the boat launch area, right then left  first exit in the Pearl St roundabout.

2. Arrival Time: Arrive and get ready to board 10 minutes before your scheduled tour time.

3. Be Prepared: We recommend using the restroom before your charter. Restrooms are located in the water park building. Note that they might not be generally open before 12 pm.

By following these tips, you’ll have a smooth and enjoyable start to your sailing tour with Sail Superior.

What to Wear for a 90-Minute Sailing Tour with Sail Superior

What to Wear for a 90-Minute Sailing Tour with Sail Superior:

1. Sunglasses & Hat: Wear sunglasses with UV protection to shield your eyes from the sun’s glare off the water.

2. Non-Slip Shoes: Put on comfortable, closed-toe shoes with good traction to stay steady on the boat’s deck.

3. Windbreaker: Bring a light windbreaker or jacket. Even if it’s warm, the wind can make it feel cooler on the water.

Remember, the weather can change fast, so these essentials will keep you comfortable during your short sailing tour with Sail Superior.

Footwear.

On the Catamaran, no heeled shoes, shoes that leave marks. You will be asked to remove inappropriate footwear before boarding. If in doubt bring some soft Croc type shoes, clean white soled runners. Going barefoot is fine but can be chilly.

On the Sailboat, most shoes except heeled shoes are ok.

On the Zodiac, runners/ hiking shoes and most anything except heels. You may be going ashore, its good to have trail shoes.

Drinking alcohol on our boats

ALCOHOL & DRINKING on a vessel. Our monohull Frodo is licensed, and as such we are bound by the law in regards to monitoring your intake and service. If you are coming from a pre drinking function and are intoxicated you will not be allowed to board, this only relates to those in your party that are visibly intoxicated and not the entire group. We will deny service on board to anyone who is becoming intoxicated. We will insure that you have a designated DD or someone who is picking you up afterwards. It is our Duty to keep you safe. If your tour is cancelled due to any conflict with the above laws and policies you will not receive a refund or credit for your tour. Boating is a great place to have a drink, it is a dangerous place to be intoxicated. If you think you or your party will drink excessively we kindly ask you not to book a tour with us.

Can We Bring Our Own Alcohol?

Since our boats are fully liquor licensed, personal alcohol is not allowed. There is a selection of wines, local craft beers, and ciders onboard. Should you desire something specific, simply let our captains know and we’ll do our best to arrange for it to be on the tour (at additional cost). All tours will be outfitted with servers as well as customized plans for cash and open bar services.

Catamaran tours: This is boat is not licensed and is a bareboat charter. Consumption of alcohol is only legal while the boat is at the dock or at anchor. Guests may bring their own alcohol. Strong spirits and red wine is not allowed. Remember the crew are there to keep you safe. If you think you or any of your party intends to drink to excess we kindly ask you to not book a tour with us.

Boating is a great place to have a drink or two; it is an extremely dangerous place to be intoxicated.

The Superior Rocket is not licensed and no alcohol will be permitted.

 

Are There Age Restrictions?

Sailing charters are an adventure for all; from the young to the young at heart. For anyone under 2 years of age we ask that you bring a PFD (personal flotation device) along and know that they’ll be seated with you for the duration of the tour. If you don’t have one, we will supply one upon arrival. Anyone 10 and under must be accompanied by an adult and will be supplied with a sanitized PFD upon arrival.

With private Zodiac tours, similar rules apply. Everyone is welcome with special considerations taken by the crew to maintain a safe, comfortable and exciting environment. Those under 2 will be asked to come with a properly fitted PFD while the rest of the group will be supplied with one upon arrival. The route and intensity of the ride will remain at the Captain’s discretion to ensure safety for all.

On mixed or non private Zodiac tours we do limit the age and size of children, and may even recommend some adults take a pass.  This is because the ride is advertised as a thrill speed ride and we will be heading out into the lake to meet any conditions that arise. Customers are expecting this and we cannot safety take small children into these conditions.

*Zodiac trips may not be suitable for pregnant women or those with serious neck or back pain. Let us know at the time of booking and we’ll help you find the perfect tour to experience this great lake! Trips up the Kaministiqua river are generally very relaxed and can be enjoyed by everyone.

What Happens If It Rains?

Part of the wonder of the Lake is its ever changing conditions; the weather is no exception. Unless there is substantial thunder and lightning just prior to the tour and a ‘Small Craft Advisory’ issued by Environment Canada, everything will remain as scheduled. Be sure to monitor the weather prior to the tour and bring appropriate attire to stay as comfortable as possible. Our captains have the final say and will reach out to you in the case of a postponed tour. 

 If it starts to rain mid tour, we have covered spaces to shelter you, come in and let the captain and crew brave the weather. Some of the best photographs and images are when the weather puts on a show.

Can I Smoke and/or Participate in Recreational Drugs on Tour?

To maintain the safety and awareness of everyone onboard, no smoking/vaping or recreational drug use of any kind is permitted when on the vessels, or on any of the adjacent docks or waiting areas. Failure to follow this rule will cause the immediate end of your tour and return to the dock. Any fares will be forfeit.

Is The Zodiac a Rough Ride?

Our skilled captains do their very best to ensure comfort and enjoyment of all onboard. Adjusting speed and course to the ever-changing lake conditions, we look to gather smiles from every guest. Similar to a snowmobile ride, the majority of tours are quiet comfortable to ride on; some have even compared it to flying in an airplane.  If at anytime you become uncomfortable simply let the captain know and they’ll adjust accordingly.

High wind can cause large waves. We will adjust speed and route to minimize the affect but be prepared to encounter possible rough conditions on the Zodiac.

Can I wear sunglasses and/or a hat?

You most certainly can! On very windy days we suggest that you tuck hats into a backpack or bag because there is always risk of them flying away. On Zodiac tours, we recommend that they be worn backwards or tucked into a bag. Sunglasses are best worn securely on your face or around your neck with a lanyard. All personal items are worn at your own risk!

Will I get wet?

With the speed of the zodiac combined with the ever-changing lake conditions, there is always a possibility of getting splashed. With our full-piece mustang floater suits, you’re able to enjoy all the thrills without getting your clothes all wet! On warm days, you’ll be dry before returning to the dock.

Do I need to bring my own lifejacket or PFD?

For any passengers two years of age and younger, we ask that they come prepared with their own personal floatation device to ensure proper fit and utmost safety. We do have PFDs for tiny guests and if you do not have one please don’t rush out and get one, use ours. But if you do have your own we have learned the youngsters really seem more at ease with their own. For all other passengers, Sail Superior has a range of PFDs as well as a Transport Canada certified life jackets for every persons onboard.

*Children 10 and under are required to wear a PFD at all times while onboard.

Can I go swimming?

On select tours, of course! After a tough hike there’s nothing better than walking into the refreshing embrace of Lake Superior. Swimming off the boat is ONLY permitted with DIRECT CAPTAIN CONSENT. Be sure to ask your captain about swimming prior to leaving the dock and wait for the go-ahead before hopping in. Jumping in before getting permission creates a dangerous situation for all and results in the immediate termination of the tour, calling of emergency services and prompt return to the dock.  No refunds will be issued.

Is there cellular phone coverage on excursions?

With our tours exploring such a wide area of the Superior wilderness, there may be moments without cellular phone service; that’s part of the experience! For safety reasons our crew will always have communication with shore as well as the vessel when on hiking adventures. Whether it be by phone or VHF radio, we will have constant access to communication.

Do you have washrooms on board?

Each vessel has limited onboard restroom capacity. Similar to an airplane facility, we ask that nothing be flushed but the provided toilet paper. Slightly different than the common flush toilets, just ask the crew if you have any questions, believe us, you won’t be the first!

The Zodiac has no onboard restroom.

Do people get sea sick?

Being on the water affects everyone a little differently. The captains will do their best to adjust speed course so to deliver the most comfortable experience for everyone. Should someone begin to feel a little queasy just let us know and come join us at the helm; being at the wheel is the best spot to steady yourself!

Are Pets Allowed?

On private tours, we’d gladly welcome any four-legged canine companions. The safety of passengers and crew are of utmost importance so we just ask that the captains be notified and the furry friends be suitable for water travel. If it’s something new, perhaps a visit before the tour will help introduce them to the boats. For everyone’s safety, owners and pets will also be placed together throughout the tour. On catamaran tours pets must remain outside on deck with you and we will have a nice spot and a place to attach a leash. Remember that the pets are subject to the same conditions we are so sunscreen and/or lifejackets are never a bad idea! Please see our in depth booking policy regarding pets.

There is a small $5 fee for each pet traveling on-board with the exception of registered guide and hearing dogs, which are carried free of charge. The $5 is to reserve a spot for your pet and equip the boats with basic pet cleanup equipment. Proceeds will go to a local animal shelter/charity.

 

 

Booking Terms and Conditions

See our complete Booking and Refund Policy.

Activity Level Breakdown

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Seven Day Lake Superior Zodiac Inner Passage Expedition

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