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Packing for your Apostle Islands Charter: A Beginner’s Guide

a man wearing sunglasses and standing in front of a body of water

If you’ve booked your first Apostle Islands sailing charter—congrats! You’re about to experience one of the Midwest’s most magical getaways. With over 20 stunning islands to explore, historic lighthouses, sea caves, and some of the best freshwater sailing in the country, this is one adventure you won’t forget.

But before you hoist the sails, let’s talk packing. Bringing the right gear can make the difference between “What a trip” and “I wish I’d brought ___.”

Here’s your go-to packing guide for a smooth and enjoyable first sailing charter on Lake Superior.

1. Use a Soft Duffel, not a Hard Suitcase

Storage on boats is tight. A soft-sided bag is easier to stow and won’t bang up the boat and cause damage to the gel coat, deck or the interior of the boat.

Bonus: Pack a small daypack for going ashore.

2. Dress in Layers—It’s Still Lake Superior

Even in summer, the breeze off the lake can get chilly—especially when you’re under sail.

Pro tip: Avoid cotton—it holds moisture and will leave you cold. Stick to synthetics or wool.

Pack:

  • Lightweight base layers (quick-dry shirts, long sleeves)
  • Fleece or insulated jacket
  • Windbreaker or waterproof shell
  • Comfortable pants or leggings
  • Swimsuit (you might want to take a dip!)
  • Beanie or cap (yes, even in July)
  • Sunglasses with a strap

3. Footwear Matters (Boat Shoes > Flip-Flops)

Sailing = moving around a lot. You want shoes with good grip and non-marking soles.

Pack:

  • Non-slip boat shoes or sandals with back straps
  • Lightweight hiking shoes (if you plan to go ashore)

Bonus: Bring a plastic bag to store your hiking shoes inside so you don’t bring sand or dirt onto the boat!

4. Sun & Bug Protection

That lake sun is sneaky. With water reflecting it from all angles, you’ll want to be prepared.

Pack:

  • Sunscreen
  • Lip balm with SPF
  • Sunglasses (polarized = best)
  • Wide-brimmed hat or cap
  • Bug spray – the islands are remote and wild; you will be dealing with bugs

5. Toiletries, Personal Items & Bedding

Our charters all involve at least one night on the boat, come prepared for living aboard, keep it simple but bring what you need.

Pack:

  • Toothbrush, travel-size toothpaste
  • Hairbrush, deodorant
  • Sea-sickness meds (Dramamine or natural ginger chews if you’re unsure)
  • Motion-sickness bands if you’re prone to queasiness
  • Sleeping bag or bedding
  • Pillow
  • Towel (for the beach and for showering)

 6. Extras Worth Packing

7. Provisioning: What to Know About Food & Meal Prep on a Sailboat

You will be in charge of planning your own meals as Superior Charters does not provide provisions on trips. Provisioning may sound intimidating, but with a little planning, it can be simple and even fun. If you are planning a Captained Charter, be sure to remember your Captain in your meal planning.

Here’s how to provision the right way!

Know What’s Onboard:

Before you shop, make sure you familiarize yourself with what’s included. At Superior Charters, all boats include the following.

  • Small refrigerator or icebox
  • A propane stove and oven
  • A propane grill
  • Limited counter space
  • Basic pots, pans, utensils, plates, bowls and cups
  • Corkscrew/Bottle opener
  • Cutting board
  • Percolator (with filters) or French Press
  • Complimentary consumables which include
    • Trash Bags
    • Dish Soap
    • Sponge
    • Paper Towels
    • Cleaning Spray
    • Aluminum Foil
    • Lighters/Matches
    • Hand Soap
    • Marine Toilet Paper

Easy Meal Ideas for a Sailing Charter

Here are some tried-and-true meal ideas that are boat-friendly, low-mess, and delicious.

Breakfast:

  • Yogurt, granola, fresh berries
  • Breakfast burritos (make-ahead and wrap in foil to reheat)
  • Instant oatmeal with dried fruit
  • Hard-boiled eggs and toast
  • Coffee & tea
  • Muffins or breakfast bars

Lunch:

  • Wraps or sandwiches (think turkey, cheese, hummus, veggies)
  • Pasta salad or quinoa salad (make-ahead and store in a container)
  • Charcuterie board with crackers, cheese, salami, olives, fruit
  • Peanut butter and apples (great snack, too)

Dinner:

  • Grilled kabobs (pre-marinated meat + veggies)
  • Walking Tacos (pre-seasoned + cooked meat, pre-cut veggies etc.)
  • One-pot pasta dishes (pasta + jarred sauce + add ins)
  • Stir-fry with pre-chopped veggies and rice
  • Foil-pack meals (great on a grill – fish, potatoes, zucchini, herbs)

Boat Galley Tip: Choose meals that use minimal water for cleanup, your water tank has a limited amount of water available for your trip!

Storage Tips

  • Use soft coolers or collapsible crates
  • Pack in stages—cold items together, dry items separate
  • Pre-chop and portion ingredients in reusable containers or zip bags
  • Avoid anything that melts easily (looking at you, chocolate bars)

Drinks & Extras

  • Bring plenty of water, you will want to stay hydrated (bring more than you think you will need!)
  • Pack some sparkling water, and your favorite beverages
  • Wine in a box or canned cocktails are great for saving space

Final Tip: Keep It Simple

You’re here to sail, relax, and enjoy the islands—not to be stuck cooking elaborate meals. Stick to tried-and-true recipes, do as much prep ahead of time as possible, and you’ll be eating well with minimal fuss.

-Superior Charters Crew

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