ELLISON BAY PRIVATE FIELD GUIDE
A private boat passage along Washington Island’s hidden west coast to Rock Island State Park
A private 5–6 hour tour from Ellison Bay that combines a coastal cruise past Niagara Escarpment cliffs, Boyers Bluff Light and—when conditions allow—the Louisiana shipwreck, with 2–3 hours ashore for hiking and historic sites.
A private boat passage along Washington Island’s hidden west coast to Rock Island State Park.
Embark from Ellison Bay for a private 5–6 hour voyage to Rock Island State Park operated by Friends of Plum and Pilot Islands. The route follows Washington Island’s seldom-seen west coast, passing towering cliffs of the Niagara Escarpment and landmark features such as Boyers Bluff Light before delivering you to Rock Island for two to three hours ashore to hike, picnic, and explore the island’s historic buildings and lighthouse.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
Niagara Escarpment cliffs and unadvertised coastal views
The cruise skirts Washington Island’s west coast where the Niagara Escarpment rises in steep, scenic cliffs—one of the signature visual notes of the outing.
A chance to see the shipwreck of the Louisiana
When conditions allow, the boat passes the haunting remains of the Louisiana shipwreck—an evocative maritime landmark visible from the coastal route.
Two to three hours to hike, picnic, and visit historic sites
Once ashore on Rock Island you have two to three hours to hike to Pottawatomie Lighthouse, tour the Thordarson Boathouse and original residences, relax on the beach or picnic before reboarding.
What the day feels like
What the day feels like
The trip unfolds as a coastal passage and a concentrated island visit: an outboard cruise from the dock past bluffs, lights, and occasional wreckage, then a focused shore excursion of roughly two to three hours for hiking and historic exploration before the return run.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this tour suits
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
Expect a 5–6 hour total duration for the outing; the schedule includes a boat cruise to Rock Island, a 2–3 hour shore interval, and a return cruise.
On-island activities include hiking to the lighthouse, touring historic buildings and beach time or picnicking—plan accordingly for a multi-hour shore visit.
Board at the dock in front of The Shoreline Restaurant at your assigned boarding time; the operator is Friends of Plum and Pilot Islands and the tour is private with a limited passenger capacity.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
How long is the tour?
The outing is approximately 5–6 hours in total.
Where do we meet for boarding?
You meet at the dock in front of The Shoreline Restaurant at your scheduled boarding time.
How much time do we have on Rock Island?
The itinerary provides two to three hours ashore for hiking, touring and picnicking.
Can we see the Louisiana shipwreck?
The cruise passes the shipwreck of the Louisiana when conditions allow, offering a chance to view it from the boat.
How many people can join a private tour?
Private tours accommodate up to 14 passengers.