BAYFIELD SAILING FIELD GUIDE
Mi Dulce Vida: Sail a Catalina 38 into the secluded bays of the Apostle Islands
Private Catalina 38 charters from Pikes Bay Marina, available in 2–10 day bookings and accommodating up to six people — an essential practical guide for families and small groups planning an Apostle Islands cruise.
Mi Dulce Vida: Sail a Catalina 38 into the secluded bays of the Apostle Islands.
Experience sailing aboard Mi Dulce Vida, a Catalina 38 built for exploring the Apostle Islands. The yacht combines a shallow fixed keel for closer access to the archipelago's sheltered bays with comfortable accommodations and a fully equipped galley, making it suitable for family outings or small-group private charters.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
A Catalina 38 built for the Apostles
Mi Dulce Vida is a Catalina 38 with a fixed keel and a 4'11" draft, a configuration that makes it well suited to navigate the Apostle Islands and approach more secluded inlets that deeper-keel boats must avoid.
Liveaboard comforts and a working galley
The interior balances functionality and comfort: a V-berth, a double quarter berth, convertible saloon table, and additional settee berths create sleeping space for up to six; the galley includes a stove, oven and refrigerator to support multi-day trips.
Close-in anchorages and island bays
With its shallower draft, the boat offers access to anchorages around Madeline Island and other sheltered bays; some areas—like the Stockton bays—are better-suited to experienced sailors seeking more remote stops.
What the day feels like
What the trip actually feels like
From the slip at Pikes Bay Marina, a private charter aboard Mi Dulce Vida moves from slip-side provisioning into sheltered island sailing: days are spent navigating to anchorages around Madeline Island or pushing for the more distant Stockton bays, evenings around the small galley or ashore, and the boat’s layout supports both relaxed cruising and skill-building for those who want to expand their sailing experience.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this charter works best for — and who should think twice.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
Charters are offered in lengths from 2 to 10 days.
Provision beverages and food for onboard meal prep; bring sleeping bag and pillow, towel and toiletries, layered warm clothing, rain gear, suitable shoes, sunscreen and insect repellent, and any optional dry bags or small water toys (inflatable kayaks and paddle boards are acceptable; hard kayaks and hard paddle boards are not).
The boat has a functional galley (stove, oven, refrigerator) and sleeping arrangements for up to six; CPAP machines are allowed only if accompanied by an appropriate battery pack.
Embarkation and return occur at Pikes Bay Marina, WI, where slip access includes a Club House with showers and a full kitchen.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
Where do I meet the boat?
All charters embark from Pikes Bay Marina, WI.
How many people can the boat carry?
The yacht accommodates up to six people; the layout is ideally suited for four adults and two small children.
Are pets or smoking allowed on board?
Pets are not allowed unless prior approval is granted, and smoking or vaping is prohibited.
Can I anchor out and what anchorages are typical?
Yes — guests can anchor out in bays around Madeline Island; Stockton bays are also reachable but are recommended for more experienced sailors.
What should I bring for comfort and safety?
Bring provisions for onboard meals and beverages, sleeping bag and pillow, towel and toiletries, layered warm clothing and rain gear, shoes suitable for a boat, sunscreen, insect repellent, and seasickness remedies if needed; inflatable water toys and small dry bags are allowed while hard kayaks and hard paddle boards are not.
Can I bring medical devices like a CPAP machine?
CPAP machines are allowed only if accompanied by a battery pack designed for stand-alone use or an approved companion battery.