Skimming the Les Cheneaux: A 40‑HP Cruise from Cedarville’s Hills Point Resort

CEDARVILLE BOAT RENTAL FIELD GUIDE

Skimming the Les Cheneaux: A 40‑HP Cruise from Cedarville’s Hills Point Resort

A concise guide to renting the Playbuoy Mercury — a 40‑HP, 14‑passenger boat for daily or weekly cruising and fishing on Lake Huron.

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Skimming the Les Cheneaux: A 40‑HP Cruise from Cedarville’s Hills Point Resort.

Duration
Contact operator
Location
Cedarville
Operator
Hills Point Resort
Category
Boat Rental

Adventure brief

Skimming the Les Cheneaux: A 40‑HP Cruise from Cedarville’s Hills Point Resort

From Cedarville, Hills Point Resort stages access to the Les Cheneaux Islands by water: the Playbuoy Mercury is a 40‑HP boat configured for up to 14 passengers, designed for island‑cruising and fishing on Lake Huron and available as daily or weekly rentals.

Situated in the picturesque Les Cheneaux Islands, Hills Point Resort offers a prime launching point for water-based adventures on Lake Huron. Known for its sparkling waters, rugged rock formations, and mosaic of small islands, this area is a haven for boaters and anglers alike. The resort's flagship activity is renting the Playbuoy Mercury, a versatile 40 HP boat that comfortably accommodates up to 14 passengers, making it ideal for family outings, fishing trips, or relaxing cruises in the stunning archipelago. With flexible daily or weekly rentals, visitors can craft their own aquatic itinerary, exploring hidden coves, navigating past historic lighthouse sites, or simply drifting through pristine waters dotted with seabirds and occasional seals. The Les Cheneaux Islands boast distinctive geological features, including limestone formations and sheltered bays, which provide both scenic views and safe navigation. This locale also has a rich maritime heritage, with local lore marking the area as a long-standing hub for fishing and small vessel shipping. The Playbuoy Mercury is more than just a boat—it's an entry point into a vibrant aquatic world, perfect for those seeking a flexible, customizable experience. Hills Point Resort prides itself on offering accessible, well-maintained boats and expert local knowledge, making it a standout in Michigan’s outdoor recreation scene. Whether you're angling for bass or trout, or just savoring the serenity of Lake Huron, this rental puts you in control of your adventure. Marked by crystal-clear waters, scenic islands, and inviting wildlife, the Les Cheneaux Islands continue to charm visitors looking for an authentic water adventure. The resort’s friendly staff and convenient rental options ensure smooth planning so you can focus on the fun without hassle.

Route Schematic

Itinerary schematic

Typical outings begin and end at the resort dock and center on short cruises and fishing runs through the Les Cheneaux Islands, with specific timing and offshore limits governed by the operator.

  1. Hills Point Resort dock — check‑in & launch

    Check in at Hills Point Resort, complete required waivers and collect the Playbuoy Mercury during the operator’s pick‑up window.

  2. Les Cheneaux Islands — cruising and fishing

    Spend the day cruising the island channels and fishing the nearshore waters of Lake Huron, keeping within the operator’s one‑mile offshore guideline.

  3. Return to Hills Point Resort

    Return the boat to the resort by the scheduled return time; overnight rentals must be returned before the original pick‑up time on the final day.

Drivers must be at least 18 years old with a valid license and all adults are required to sign waivers; operators also prohibit taking boats more than a mile off shore.

Highlights

Outing Highlights

THE BOAT

A roomy 40‑HP workhorse for anglers and cruisers

The Playbuoy Mercury pairs modest power with high capacity: a 40‑horsepower platform that seats up to 14 people, suited to fishing or leisurely island runs around the Les Cheneaux archipelago.

THE ROUTE

Island cruising on Lake Huron

Renters use the boat to explore the Les Cheneaux Islands and the nearshore waters of Lake Huron, keeping operations within the operator’s offshore limits.

THE LOGISTICS

Flexible daily or weekly rentals for groups

Hills Point Resort offers flexible daily and weekly rental options with pick‑up and return windows that accommodate full‑day outings for groups and families.

What the day feels like

What it feels like to be on the Playbuoy Mercury

Days aboard the Playbuoy Mercury are straightforward and social: load up to 14 people at Hills Point Resort, sign the required waivers, and head out for fishing or a circuit of the Les Cheneaux Islands in Lake Huron aboard a 40‑HP rental available by the day or the week.

Suitability

Who it's for

Who this rental suits

1
Large groups and familiesWith seating for up to 14 passengers, the Playbuoy Mercury accommodates extended families or friend groups looking for a shared day or week on the water.
2
AnglersThe boat’s setup is described as appropriate for fishing trips around the islands and into Lake Huron’s nearshore waters.
3
Weekend cruisersAvailable as daily or weekly rentals, the platform works for short excursions or multi‑day island cruising within the operator’s limits.
4
Designated driversAnyone planning to operate the boat must be 18 or older and hold a valid driver’s license; all adults must complete a waiver at check‑in.

Practical planner

Details to review before reserving

What to Bring

Fuel is not included in rental pricing; plan to provide and pay for gas separately. The operator requires that drivers present a valid license and that all adults sign a waiver during check‑in.

Driver & Documentation

Drivers must be at least 18 years old and carry a valid license; all adults in the party will be asked to sign a waiver when picking up the boat.

Fuel Policy

Prices do not include gasoline; renters are responsible for fueling costs.

Booking Notice

Review cancellation policies before reserving.

Frequently asked questions

Planning Your Outing

How many people can the Playbuoy Mercury hold?

The boat accommodates up to 14 guests.

What are the rental durations available?

Rentals are offered on daily and weekly options.

When can I pick up and return the boat?

Pick ups and returns are available from 8am to 8pm; overnight rentals must be returned by the pick‑up time on the final day.

Are fuel costs included in the rental price?

No — prices do not include gas.

How far offshore can I take the boat?

Boats are not to be taken more than one mile off shore in Lake Huron.

What are the age and licensing requirements to operate the boat?

Drivers must be 18 or older and have a valid license; all adults must sign a waiver at check‑in.

How this guide was prepared

This field guide is synthesized using verified supplier specifications, route descriptions, and destination data. Some booking links may generate affiliate revenue for ADV Guides.

  • Verified: 2026-09-14T12:08:53.780Z

Some booking links may generate revenue for ADV Guides or The Adventure Collective.

Availability, pricing, schedules and operating details can change.

Trip details and contextual sources were reviewed by ADV Guides Editorial.

Skimming the Les Cheneaux: A 40‑HP Cruise from Cedarville’s Hills Point Resort