From sailing to yachting or even cruising on a speedboat there is no better place to visit for a spot of boating than the beautiful Great Lakes of North America.
Collectively made up of Lake Superior, Michigan, Huron, Erie and Ontario across the US states of Illinois, Indiana, Michigan, Minnesota, Ohio, Pennsylvania and Wisconsin, The Great Lakes have a surface area of over 80,500 square miles and are the largest group of freshwater lakes in the world.
They are famous for the magnificent Tall Ships and where better to see them than in Minnesota at the Duluth Music & Maritime Festival from 15 to 18 July 2011. As well as watching these amazing ships from the harbour visitors will be able to book in advance and experience the thrill of the open water on board a ship that time forgot. Prices start from $95 per person, visit http://visitduluth.com/maritimefestival/ for further information.
The Great Lakes also have numerous islands just waiting to be explored. One unique location in Michigan is Mackinac Island, located in the eastern part of the Straits of Mackinac. No cars are allowed, which makes it a very peaceful location to relax and explore.
The island is a premiere destination for boaters as it separates two of the Great Lakes, Lake Huron and Lake Michigan allowing for a spot of R n R before continuing on their travels. The island also boasts world-class lodging and hotels, such as the Grand Hotel, with its 660 foot-long front porch.
Whatever your interest you are sure to find something that will excite from chartering your own ship for a full or half day group excursion, to a leisurely kayak rental. Mackinac Island is also host to the annual “Race to Mackinac”, which is the largest freshwater yacht race in the world. The 103rd race will take place on 16 July 2011.
Another good stop off location is Beaver Island which is a peaceful haven 30 miles off the Michigan coast. If you’re not a sailor and would like to explore the islands surrounding Beaver Island, you can charter a half or full day tour starting from $200 for up to two people or a beautiful sunset cruise starting from $150 for up to two people, visit www.beaverislandboatcharters.com.
Alternatively, if you would like to learn to sail, you can at Emerald Isle Sailing School who offer classes for those aged eight and above. Prices for junior sailing start from $135 per student per session and adult sailing starts from $30 per person per hour or $50 per couple per hour, visit www.sailbeaverisland.com.
For boating with a difference, experience Ohio’s Partners in Education Dragon Boat Festival on Saturday 23 July. Dragon boat racing is a celebrated race of decorated boats, a tradition that originated in China over 2,000 years ago. As well as the racing there is a crescendo of exciting live entertainment, ancient Chinese music and a children’s area with Chinese crafts, including origami and a Chinese kite making and flying, it is set to be so much more than a day at races and is completely free.
The Kinzua Dam and Alleghany Reservoir in Pennsylvania are the heart of one of the largest recreation areas in the United States. For those looking to enjoy the water The Kinuza-Wolf Run Marina with six boat launches provide plenty of opportunities for rentals of motor boats, pontoon boats and house boats, which are suitable for fun and relaxation for all the family. Prices start from $20 for a two hour hire. Visit http://www.kinzuamarina.com/ for more information.
Alternatively let someone else take the helm and embark on a cruise around the lakes. Itineraries include Ontario, Canada to Chicago, Illinois; The Erie Canal to the Saguenay; and Magical Lake Michigan. With cruises departing throughout the year there is no better way to explore this stunningly unique region. Cruise prices start from $2,379 per person, for more information visit http://www.greatlakescruising.com
For further information on the Great Lakes of North America, visit www.greatlakesnorthamerica.co.uk.
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