Lakeside Expedition: Great Lakes Charter Itineraries
The Great Lakes Charter Itineraries provide possible itinerary options to experience the most extensive freshwater system in the world, the Great Lakes. The peak charter season is during the summer months.

States Bordering the Great Lakes
The Great Lakes States are Ohio, Indiana, Michigan, Wisconsin, Illinois, and Minnesota. Their northern borders touch four Great Lakes – Lakes Erie, Huron, Michigan, and Superior.
Explore the Lower Peninsula of Michigan and its towns on the Great Lakes:
- Traverse City
- Charlevoix
- Bay Harbor
- Harbor Springs
- St. James Harbor
- Mackinac Island
- Cheneaux Islands
Traverse City hosts the annual National Cherry Festival from July 3rd to 10th. Play golf on Bay Harbor at their 27-hole championship golf course. Miles of walking trails, parks, and recreation areas make Traverse City ideal for outdoor enthusiasts.
Visit Mackinac Island, a National Historic Landmark. Transportation is by bicycle, horseback, or horse-drawn carriage because there are no cars on the island. There are two historic forts and the Grand Hotel, which has the most extended outdoor open-air porch in the world. The hotel dominates the island from its site on a high bluff overlooking the straits.
Thirty miles northeast of the Mackinac Bridge is Les Cheneaux Islands Resort Area in Michigan’s Eastern Upper Peninsula. Relax on unspoiled beaches on Lake Charlevoix and swim in clear fresh water. There are many other activities here, such as hiking, visiting the famed Earl Young Mushroom House, shopping downtown, browsing art galleries, dining and water skiing, or tubing at Boyne City.
All Great Lakes Charter itineraries will be customized based on the guest’s preferences and the weather. So, please remember these are samples.
Like the New England area, the peak sailing season is summer. It is best to pack various clothing for warm days and cooler nights.
Frequently Asked Questions
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There are a few necessary parameters to consider. For example, what type of boat, your destination, the time of year, and who will accompany you. The questions below can help guide your thought process, and your CKIM yacht charter broker will assist in asking the right questions and providing the expertise to design the perfect experience for you.
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Yes, most itineraries include daily boat trips to nearby islands, usually with beach chairs, sunshade, snorkeling gear, and a cooler lunch provided. Popular day-trip spots include Francisquí, Madrisquí, Crasquí, and Cayo de Agua
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Yes! Private yacht charters offer flexible itineraries, allowing you to visit preferred destinations, hidden coves, and top attractions at your own pace.
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Absolutely. Your preferences guide everything—from the onboard menu to the daily route. Our team and your yacht’s chef will tailor the experience to your taste.
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Our crew educates guests on sustainable fishing practices and local marine conservation efforts, fostering awareness and appreciation for Greece’s marine environment.
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Many yacht charters are family-friendly and offer amenities and activities suitable for children of all ages, but it’s always best to check with the charter company beforehand.
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Yes, you can use them during your charter. However, availability may vary depending on the yacht, so it’s advisable to check with the charter company beforehand.
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Depends on the charter type. Crewed charters often include gourmet meals, while bareboat charters require self-catering or additional provisioning services.
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Yes, there are, depending on the time of the year and the yacht charter destination.
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You are allowed to bring their own alcohol and food onto the yacht and we can also arrange to have beverages delivered to your boat prior to embarkation or to have a chef onboard.