KENOSHA BOAT TOUR FIELD GUIDE
Aboard Red Witch II: 90 Minutes of Pure Lake Michigan Sailing from Milwaukee’s Historic Third Ward
A public day- and sunset-sail aboard the seaworthy Red Witch II — a 90-minute outing with a seasoned captain and crew that hoists the sails and turns off the engine to deliver true sailing on Lake Michigan.
Aboard Red Witch II: 90 Minutes of Pure Lake Michigan Sailing from Milwaukee’s Historic Third Ward.
Step aboard Red Witch II and trade the clatter of the dock for the hush of canvas and open water: this 90-minute public sail on Lake Michigan is run by a seasoned captain and friendly crew who hoist the sails outside the harbor, shut down the engine and let the boat do the work while offering insights into how sailing actually works.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
Red Witch II — Built for Seaworthiness
Red Witch II carries the safety gear required for public sails and was designed to handle ocean conditions; one sistership has made two circumnavigations, underscoring the vessel’s seaworthiness.
Real Sailing — Hoist, Trim, Learn
Once outside the harbor the crew raises sail and turns off the engine so passengers experience pure sail power; the captain will explain the techniques and the underlying math and physics to anyone interested.
Historic Third Ward Departure
Trips depart from the operator’s dock in Milwaukee’s Historic Third Ward, placing the sail within easy walking distance of nearby restaurants and bars for a pre- or post-sail bite.
What the day feels like
What the 90 Minutes Feel Like
Boarding at the Third Ward dock leads quickly to lines and rigging; after leaving the harbor the crew hoists the sails, cuts the engine and lets wind and water set the pace. The run typically reaches offshore distances allowed by the U.S. Coast Guard for the season, and the captain — a 100-ton Ship’s Master with decades of commercial and coastal experience — guides the vessel while offering commentary and hands-on explanations for anyone who wants to learn.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who gets the most from this sail — and who should consider alternatives.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
Public sails run approximately 90 minutes.
Boarding is at the operator’s dock in Milwaukee’s Historic Third Ward (340 S. Water Street).
Do not bring beverages aboard; beverages are available shortly after departure. Dress in layers for wind and spray.
The vessel carries required safety gear and is captained by a Merchant Marine officer with extensive coastal experience.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
How long is the public sail?
Public sails run for approximately 90 minutes.
Where do I board the boat?
Boarding is at the operator’s dock in Milwaukee’s Historic Third Ward at 340 S. Water Street.
Do you actually sail or is it a motor cruise?
Once outside the harbor the crew hoists the sails and turns off the engine so passengers experience pure sailing; the captain can explain sailing techniques on request.
How far offshore do you go?
The sail proceeds up to the offshore distance permitted for the season — up to one mile or three miles offshore as specified by the U.S. Coast Guard.
Are beverages allowed on board?
Do not bring beverages aboard; beverages are available shortly after departure.
Who is the captain?
The captain is a Merchant Marine officer (100-Ton Ship’s Master) with more than 20 years of service piloting commercial sail and motor vessels on Lake Michigan and the Pacific.
Can I book a private event?
Yes — the operator offers private events; interested parties should consult the operator for private-charter information.
Has the Red Witch received recognition?
A former fleet boat, the Tall Ship Red Witch, was voted Best Tour and Charter Boat in Chicago in 2009, 2010 and 2012 (3rd overall) by IllinoisMeetings+Events.