The Blue Cheese: A Slow, Sunny Day Aboard a Pontoon out of Isle

ISLE BOAT TOUR FIELD GUIDE

The Blue Cheese: A Slow, Sunny Day Aboard a Pontoon out of Isle

Rent The Blue Cheese from Castles Resort for a 1–12 hour escape on Mille Lacs Lake; this guide explains what the boat includes, popular anchorages, and the simple logistics you’ll need to plan.

The Blue Cheese: A Slow, Sunny Day Aboard a Pontoon out of Isle.

Duration
Contact operator
Location
Isle
Operator
Castles Resort
Category
Boat Tour
Robert Eric Crews
Founder & Editor, The Adventure Collective
Published Verified

Castles Resort in Isle runs pontoon rentals — including The Blue Cheese — for visitors who want an uncomplicated day on Mille Lacs Lake. The resort positions itself as an accessible launch for travelers from the Twin Cities, and its fleet is kept fully maintained and easy to drive so renters can focus on swimming, docking for lakeside meals, or finding a quiet cove to fish.

Highlights

Outing Highlights

THE BEACH

Swim the Sand at Father Hennepin State Park

One of the most-loved stops from Castles Resort is the sandy beach at nearby Father Hennepin State Park — a reliable place to anchor, stretch out, and swim.

THE MEAL

Dock for Lakeside Dining

Renters commonly plan stops at nearby resorts such as Appledorns and Max Twin Bay to tie up and grab a meal without losing a minute of open water time.

THE FISH

On-the-Water Fishing Pointers

If you’re interested in fishing, mention it at check-in and staff will point you to local spots that are productive for what’s biting that season.

What the day feels like

What the day feels like

A rental with Castles Resort is straightforward: check in, receive brief instructions for safe operation, load coolers and gear at the dock, and head out for however long you’ve booked. The Blue Cheese is set up for relaxed cruising — shade, seating, and basic navigation/fish-finding electronics — so your day is about choosing a beach, a dockside lunch, or a good fishing patch and enjoying the lake at that pace.

Suitability

Who it's for

Who this rental suits — and who should reconsider.

1
Active FamiliesFamilies who want a relaxed day of swimming and picnicking will find the pontoon set up for comfort, but note the vessel’s 6–8 passenger suitability and guidance to limit groups to six when people or coolers are large.
2
Fishing PartiesAnglers are a good match: staff can recommend local fishing spots when you check in, and the boats include fish and depth finders to support a productive day on the water.
3
Large GroupsLarge groups should plan carefully — while the vessel advertises capacity for up to 8 passengers, the operator suggests groups of six or fewer when people or gear are oversized.
4
Resort GuestsGuests staying at Castles Resort get a tangible benefit — a 25% discount on pontoon rentals — making day trips from the dock especially convenient.

Practical planner

Details to review before reserving

What to Bring

Guests are welcome to bring food and drink for their trip; the resort does not sell food or beverages. Life jackets are provided aboard the pontoon; boats are equipped with comfortable seating, a Bimini shade top, an anchor, and Lowrance fish and depth finders.

Booking Notice

Review cancellation policies before reserving.

Frequently asked questions

Planning Your Outing

How long can I rent The Blue Cheese?

Online rentals are offered between 1 and 12 hours.

Am I required to be a certain age to rent?

Yes — renters must be at least 21 years old to rent a pontoon.

Who pays for fuel?

Guests are responsible for the fuel charge for their rental; the operator will charge the payment method on file after booking unless you present a different payment method at check-in.

Can I bring my own food and drinks?

Yes — guests are welcome to bring food and drink; the resort does not sell these items.

Where can I park and load my gear?

Vehicles may unpack and load coolers and gear by the dock; after unloading, please park on the street.

Will I get instruction on how to operate the pontoon?

Yes — instructions for the safe operation of the pontoon are provided at check-in.