BAYFIELD CATAMARAN FIELD GUIDE
Calico: Athena 38—A compact catamaran for captained trips out of Bayfield
A captained private charter aboard an Athena 38 from Pikes Bay Marina, for up to six people on 2–10 day trips; this guide covers what to expect aboard and what to pack.
Calico: Athena 38—A compact catamaran for captained trips out of Bayfield.
Adventure brief
Calico: Athena 38—A compact catamaran for captained trips out of Bayfield
Athena 38 Calico combines sleek lines and thoughtful engineering: twin hulls, a sunshade and aft skirt that define its profile, a functional helmsman’s cockpit, and aft steps that make water access and onboard recreation straightforward. Belowdecks, the layout favors comfort and practicality with a large saloon and galley and four light cabins with independent heads — a design that aims to be both safe in varied weather and easy to handle for private charters.
Experience the serene beauty of Lake Superior with Apostle Islands Charters aboard the Calico: Athena 38 Catamaran. This private sailing adventure departing from Bayfield, Wisconsin, offers a unique way to explore the stunning Apostle Islands National Lakeshore. The Athena 38 is a sleek, stable catamaran designed for comfort and smooth sailing, perfect for families, couples, or small groups seeking a tailor-made experience on the water. As you glide past forested shorelines, sea caves, and historic lighthouses, you'll get a fresh perspective on this remarkable region known for its crystal-clear waters and rugged landscapes. Whether you're interested in photography, wildlife spotting, or simply relaxing in nature, this sailing trip provides a peaceful escape with breathtaking views at every turn. With a knowledgeable local captain, you can customize your route or sit back and savor the quiet, making it an ideal outdoor adventure for all skill levels. The combination of calm waters, fresh air, and the freedom of the open lake makes the Calico: Athena 38 Catamaran tour a standout activity in Bayfield.
Route Schematic
Typical route schematic
Routes are flexible for private charters; common trip phases include boarding, days of cruising and recreation, and return to the marina.
Boarding — Pikes Bay Marina
Guests meet and board at Pikes Bay Marina for safety briefing, provisioning and embarkation.
Days aboard — cruising and water access
During the charter the Athena 38 supports on-water recreation from its aft steps and cockpit—swimming, inflatable water toys and relaxed days at anchor or short hops between sheltered spots.
Disembark — return to the marina
At the end of the charter the vessel returns to the marina for disembarkation; marina facilities include showers for guest use.
This is a captained private charter for up to six people; the operator reserves the right to alter routes for safety and weather conditions.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
Beauty with intelligence
The Athena 38’s lines—hulls, sunshade and aft skirt—combine aesthetic restraint with practical design: a helmsman’s cockpit for navigation, simplified handling for berthing and mooring, and build quality intended to make the boat safe and pleasant across conditions.
Roomy saloon and private cabins
Belowdecks the boat emphasizes usable space: a large saloon with chart table, a galley with abundant refrigeration and storage, and four well-insulated cabins with room for king-size beds and independent toilets with showers.
Easy water access and on-deck recreation
Practical steps at the rear of the hulls give straightforward access for swimming and water play, and the spacious cockpit provides sunbathing space—features intended to make on-water recreation easy for the whole party.
What the day feels like
What it feels like aboard Calico
Boarding a captained Athena 38 from the marina delivers a compact, confident cruising experience: daytime navigation from the helmsman’s cockpit, relaxed meals prepared in a generous galley, afternoons spent on the cockpit deck or stepping directly into the water from the aft hull steps, and nights in four private cabins—an arrangement that emphasizes comfort, convenience and straightforward handling.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this charter suits — and who should reconsider.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
Bring beverages and provisioning for onboard meal prep, sleeping bag and pillow, towel and toiletries, layered warm clothing, swimsuit, appropriate shoes, sunglasses with lanyard, sunscreen, insect repellent, and any seasickness remedies or battery-backed CPAP if required.
Inflatable kayaks and inflatable paddle boards are allowed; hard kayaks and hard paddle boards are not permitted and towing is prohibited.
Pets without prior approval, hard coolers, smoking or vaping, and CPAP machines without a battery pack are not allowed aboard.
The boat has showers available at the marina; the galley has large refrigerator and storage space for provisioning.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
How many people can I bring?
Charters accommodate up to six people of all ages.
Is a captain included?
Calico is a captain-only charter and the captain fee is included in the published pricing.
Where is the meeting point?
Guests meet at Pikes Bay Marina, WI.
What should we bring for food and drink?
Bring beverages and provisions to support onboard meal preparation, including condiments, spices and any personal favorites.
Are pets allowed aboard?
Pets are not allowed unless prior approval is obtained from the operator.
Can I bring my kayak or paddle board?
Hard kayaks and hard paddle boards are not allowed; inflatable kayaks and inflatable paddle boards are permitted.
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: 2026-08-07T13:16:13.920Z
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.