BAYFIELD SAILING FIELD GUIDE
Aboard Akialoa: A Dufour 37 Cruise Through the Apostle Islands
Private 2–10 day charters for up to six people departing from Pikes Bay Marina, sailing the Apostle Islands on Lake Superior aboard a three‑cabin Dufour 37.
Aboard Akialoa: A Dufour 37 Cruise Through the Apostle Islands.
Akialoa is a three‑cabin Dufour 37 offered by Apostle Islands Charters, based in the Apostle Islands on Lake Superior; the yacht’s layout, cruising comfort and sail handling make it a compact, livable platform for private multi‑day charters around the islands.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
Dufour 37 — award‑winning cruising comfort
The Akialoa is a Dufour 37 with a masthead sloop rig, fin keel, spade rudder and double B&R spreaders; its layout was recognized by Cruising World for cruising comfort, and sail controls are led to the cockpit for manageable single‑handed sailing.
Three cabins, roomy saloon and practical systems
The yacht sleeps six in two aft cabins and a forward V‑berth; the main saloon provides full headroom and the L‑shaped galley offers ample prep space. Akialoa also features an electric winch for anchoring and a composting head to avoid pump‑outs.
Designed for straightforward cruising
Features such as self‑tailing winches, traveler and sheet controls led to the cockpit, and a wing keel that supports windward performance make the boat well suited to cruising the Apostle Islands.
What the day feels like
What the charter feels like
Charters run from two to ten days and place you on a compact, three‑cabin cruising yacht well suited to family or small‑group live‑aboard use; the boat’s cockpit‑led controls and onboard systems make sail handling and anchoring pragmatic tasks while you explore the Apostle Islands and Lake Superior.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this charter suits — and who should plan differently.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
Provision your own food and beverages for onboard meal preparation. Bring sleeping bag and pillow, towel and toiletries (marina showers available), layered warm clothing, rain gear, suitable shoes, swimsuit if desired, sunglasses with lanyard, sunscreen, insect repellent, seasick remedies, and optional small dry bags and water toys such as inflatable kayaks or SUPs.
Do not bring hard kayaks or paddle boards; pets require prior approval. CPAP machines are not allowed unless accompanied by a battery pack. Bring any navigation aids or flashlights as desired.
The boat includes living accommodations for up to six people and a composting head; guests should plan to supply provisions, beverages and personal items listed above.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
How long can I charter Akialoa?
Private charters are available from 2 to 10 days.
How many people can the boat accommodate?
Akialoa accommodates up to six people.
Where is the meeting or departure point?
The operator meets guests at Pikes Bay Marina in Wisconsin.
Is a captain available?
A captain is available for charters if required at a rate of $299 per day.
Are pets or smoking allowed?
Pets are not allowed without prior approval; smoking and vaping are not allowed onboard.
Do I need to bring a CPAP battery?
CPAP machines are not allowed unless accompanied by a battery pack, so guests requiring CPAP should bring appropriate battery power.