What Kind of Boat Will We Be Sailing On?

You will be sailing aboard the Mary Grace, a classic Catalina 36 MK II sailboat. The Catalina 36 is one of the most popular and respected designs in American sailing, recognized for its excellent stability, spacious layout, and smooth handling on open water. The Mary Grace is meticulously maintained and regularly inspected to ensure the highest standards of safety, dependability, and comfort. Whether you are an experienced sailor or a first-time passenger, the Mary Grace offers a secure and relaxing platform for your Lake Michigan sailing adventure.

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How Many People Can Come Along on the Charter?

Up to 6 passengers may board your private charter. This limit is a standard U.S. Coast Guard safety regulation that applies to all vessels of our size, and it includes children and infants in the passenger count. Our sailboat, the Mary Grace, features an 8-foot cockpit, an indoor cabin, and a front deck, providing your group with enough space to move around and view the lake comfortably or to seek shade below deck or under the canopy.

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Who Is Piloting the Boat? Is the Captain Licensed?

Every trip is led by a professional crew and Captain Andy, who is fully licensed by the U.S. Coast Guard. Our Captain (local to South Haven) has more than 15 years of experience navigating Lake Michigan, which means they are familiar with local water conditions, wind patterns, and coastal routes. Guests can relax knowing the vessel is operated by an experienced professional.

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Can We Bring Children on Our Charter Sail?

Yes! Sailing on the Mary Grace is suitable for families, and children of all ages are welcome aboard! To comply with federal safety regulations, we provide specific weight-appropriate life jackets for all children under the age of 6. For safety reasons, swimming from the boat is not permitted at any time during our 2-hour cruise.

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What Happens if It Rains or the Weather Is Bad?

If Captain Andy cancels your trip due to rain, high winds, or unsafe lake conditions, you will receive a full refund. We monitor weather radar and marine forecasts closely prior to departure. If weather conditions appear unfavorable for sailing, we will contact you as early as possible to discuss rescheduling or refunding your booking.

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How Rough Do the Waves Get, and What Is Your Wave Policy?

Lake Michigan is a large body of water, and wave conditions can change daily. We check local marine forecasts consistently. If wave heights look too high for a comfortable or safe transit, the captain will cancel the sail and remain at the port. In these instances, you will receive a full refund.

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Can We Bring Our Own Drinks and Food on Board?

Guests are welcome to bring their own food and beverages. Our charters are BYOB-friendly, allowing you to pack wine, beer, seltzers, or other refreshments. The boat is equipped with a built-in refrigerator to keep your items cold, and we provide plastic cups to prevent glass breakage on the deck.

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Do You Offer Any Snacks During the Sail?

We provide complimentary light snacks and beverages on every charter to keep you hydrated and comfortable during the trip. You are welcome to bring more substantial food and drink if you prefer to have lunch or dinner on the water.

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Is There a Bathroom on the Sailboat?

Our Catalina 36 MK II sailboat is equipped with a private, fully functional marine restroom, commonly referred to as a "head," located below deck. Guests have access to this facility throughout the entire 2-hour charter.

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What Sights Will We See Along the Route?

Our 2-hour cruises depart from downtown South Haven. The boat travels down the Black River channel, passes the historic South Haven South Pierhead Light, and enters the open waters of Lake Michigan. The Captain will choose the exact sailing route based on the day's wind direction to ensure the smoothest possible ride.

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How Should We Prepare and What Should We Pack?

We recommend dressing in layers, as temperatures on open water are usually cooler than on land. A light jacket or windbreaker is useful even during the summer months.

• What to pack: Sunscreen (non-spray formulas are preferred), sunglasses, a camera, and your choice of food or drinks.

• Footwear: Please wear flat shoes with rubber soles, such as sneakers or boat shoes, to maintain traction on the deck. High heels are not permitted.

• Shade: The boat features a canvas canopy that provides shade over the cockpit area if you want a break from direct sunlight.
   

Where Do We Go to Board the Boat, and Is Parking Available?

Our charters depart from the Port of South Haven (515 Williams St. for parking), aboard the Mary Grace. Once your sail reservation is booked, you will receive detailed parking and walking instructions to the Mary Grace. There are public parking options nearby, but because downtown South Haven can get busy during the peak summer tourist season, we recommend arriving with plenty of time to secure a parking spot before your scheduled departure. The Water Street/Williams Street Lot sits right against the boardwalk property. You may park here, walk directly through the Old Harbor Village shops, and head straight to the river side of the building to find the boat dock.

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How Early Should We Arrive for Our Scheduled Charter?

Please plan to arrive at the dock 10 minutes before your scheduled departure time. This allows our crew to welcome your group, handle boarding safely, and go over a brief safety orientation so we can set sail on time. Because we run multiple trips a day, sails may not be extended if your group arrives late.

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What Is Your Cancellation Policy if We Need to Change Our Plans?

We offer a flexible cancellation policy for our guests. You may cancel your reservation for any reason up to 48 hours before your scheduled trip to receive a 100% full refund. Cancellations made within 48 hours of departure are non-refundable, as it is difficult to rebook the time slot on short notice.

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Are Pets or Service Animals Allowed on the Sailboat?

To ensure the safety of our guests and protect the vessel's upholstery and fiberglass decks, some pets are not permitted on board during a charter. If you have further questions about private sails with pets, contact Captain Andy at (269) 420-3530.

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Is Smoking or Vaping Permitted During the Sail?

For the safety and comfort of everyone on board, Fresh Coast Sailing operates a strict no-smoking and no-vaping policy. Smoking of any kind is prohibited in the cockpit, on deck, and inside the cabin area throughout the duration of the trip.

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Can We Play Our Own Music on the Boat?

Yes! You are welcome to set the soundtrack for your cruise. The boat features a marine audio system that can connect to your phone via Bluetooth, allowing you to play your preferred music during your 2-hour charter.

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Is Tipping the Captain and Crew Customary?

While tipping is entirely at your discretion, it is customary in the sailing charter industry to tip your Captain and Crew if you enjoyed your time on the water. A gratuity of 15% to 20% of the charter price is standard for excellent service and is deeply appreciated by the Captain and Crew.

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What Happens if There Is No Wind on the Day of Our Charter?

While we always hope for ideal sailing breezes, nature doesn't always cooperate. If the wind is too calm to fill the sails, we will use our clean, dependable auxiliary engine to cruise down the river and out onto the lake, ensuring you still get a scenic and relaxing experience on the water.

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Plan Your Visit

South Haven Visitors Bureau – Your local Captain’s log for area guides, seasonal events, and expert insider tips on local marinas, beaches, and lodging.

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About Captain Andy:

Who Is Captain Andy and What’s His Vibe?

Captain Andy was born and raised right here in South Haven and graduated from South Haven High School. His deep connection to Lake Michigan started at a young age, turning a lifelong passion for the water into a professional career. After years of navigating local waters, he earned his official U.S. Coast Guard Master Captain's license. Today, he loves sharing his hometown pride and knowledge of the Michigan coastline with guests aboard the Mary Grace.

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What Is Captain Andy's Sailing Background and Where Has He Sailed?

Captain Andy has more than 15 years of maritime experience on Lake Michigan. Before operating sailing charters for Fresh Coast Sailing, he spent several years as a captain for Sailing South Haven on a 1977 Gulfstar 37 and on a 65ft schooner. His extensive background spans traditional tall ship rigging, commercial passenger vessels, and modern cruising sailboats.

What Does Captain Andy Do During the Winter and Off-Season?

Because the Great Lakes sailing season runs from spring to autumn, Captain Andy stays busy with local trade work and travel during the winter months. In the off-season, he sails in warmer international climates and coastal regions, returning to South Haven in the spring.

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Ready to set sail? The Mary Grace, our beautiful Catalina 36 MK II sailboat is a meticulously maintained and regularly inspected vessel with exceptional safety, comfort, and dependability for your sailing adventure. Book your next adventure with Fresh Coast Sailing today here.