Setting Sail on Lake Michigan

South Haven, Michigan, nestled along the eastern shore of Lake Michigan, is a vacation destination brimming with small-town charm and rich history. But the best way to experience the beauty and splendor of the area truly is from the water. Set sail out of South Haven and embark on a journey that combines breathtaking sights with whispers of the past, all the while guided by our U.S. Coast Guard licensed Captain Andy (and local history buff).

Things to watch for on your sailing adventure…

As you leave the harbor on the majestic Mary Grace, the iconic South Haven lighthouses become your companions.

South Haven Lighthouses

These iconic sentinels, the South Haven Light and the South Haven South Pierhead Light, stand guard at the harbor entrance. Witnessing countless journeys for over a century, they offer a historical and picturesque welcome to your sail. The old, red brick South Haven Light, built in 1872, stands sentinel at the pierhead. Further north, the taller South Haven South Pierhead Light, built in 1903, keeps watch with its distinctive white octagonal tower. These lighthouses, silent guardians for over a century, have witnessed countless journeys on the Great Lakes.

Loons and the Potawatomi

Keep an ear out for the haunting cry of the loon, a sound that echoes the rich indigenous history of the region. The Potawatomi people were the original inhabitants of this land, and their legacy lives on in the names of places like Lake Michigan itself, derived from a Potawatomi word meaning "great water."

Marine Life

While you won't find dolphins, keep your eyes peeled for the native wildlife that calls Lake Michigan home. Schools of yellow perch or emerald shiners might be visible in the clear water, and you might even spot a majestic bald eagle soaring overhead.

Van Buren State Park

As you head north, keep an eye out for this pristine natural area. This park is a haven for migrating birds and boasts stunning scenery. With its forests and beaches, it's a glimpse of the raw beauty protected along the shoreline.

Palisades Power Plant Stacks

A stark reminder of the area's industrial past, these towering stacks of the decommissioned coal plant stand as a testament to human innovation and its impact on the environment. They provide a unique and thought-provoking landmark on the horizon.

There’s so much to see from the waters of Lake Michigan! Come set sail from South Haven with Fresh Coast Sailing and Captain Andy. 

Whether you're looking for a romantic sunset sail, a relaxing afternoon cruise, or an exciting sightseeing adventure, Fresh Coast Sailing has something for you. Let the wind guide you, the waves lull you, and the sights and stories of this magnificent place fill your senses. It's a journey that will leave you with a newfound appreciation for the beauty and history of Lake Michigan.

The Mary Grace, our beautiful Catalina 36 MK II sailboat is a meticulously maintained and regularly inspected vessel with exceptional comfort, safety, and dependability for your sailing adventure. 

Book your sailing adventure today and start planning your unforgettable journey on Lake Michigan! https://bit.ly/SailboatCharterSouthHaven.

Tags: Lake Michigan, South Haven, Sailing, History, Lighthouses, Shipwrecks, Fishing, Nature, Great Lakes