Sail to some of the most beautiful places on the Great Lakes. Explore remote, uninhabited islands. Learn about the unique freshwater environment of the largest body of freshwater in the world.

Sailing aboard the 85 ft schooner Appledore IV or the 65ft schooner Appledore V Windward Bound is a highly unique voyaging program on the beautiful Great Lakes. Two types of voyages are offered: Seamanship and Freshwater Science. Seamanship voyages focus on learning the arts of traditional sailing such as pilotage and navigation, sail handling, watchkeeping, and ship handling. Freshwater science voyages combine traditional sailing with study of Great Lakes habitats, aquatic species, shoreline geology, water quality, and nautical science.

Life onboard the schooner is comfortable with a curtained bunk for each participant and a small amount of space for belongings.

As the ship sails between ports participants stand a regular watch while learning every aspect of running the ship, from navigation to meal preparation. The ships anchor most nights in one of the thousands of secluded coves on the lakes, or occasionally visit a small port town. Voyage highlights include trips ashore in the ship's tenders, exploration of uninhabited islands, and beach cook-outs.

Participants completing a summer voyage become eligible to join the year-round Windward Bound Youth Officer training program and sail the following year as part of our youth crew!