

Pilotage Plan: Bayfield, WI to Cornucopia, WI
Embarking on a boat trip from Bayfield to Cornucopia offers a delightful blend of scenic beauty and navigational excitement. This route is tailored for recreational boaters who appreciate the tranquility of Lake Superior and the promise of discovery along the Apostle Islands. Safety takes precedence, but adventure and exploration are never far behind.
Starting Point: Bayfield, WI Located at coordinates -90.757, 46.8518, Bayfield serves as an ideal launching point. This quaint town provides ample amenities, including fuel docks, grocery stores, and other facilities. Before setting out, make sure to check recent weather conditions and pay attention to local marine forecasts.
Destination: Cornucopia, WI Located at -91.102, 46.858, Cornucopia is a charming harbor town with breathtaking views and a welcoming atmosphere. Key amenities like restaurants and lodging are available for those wishing to extend their stay.
Your journey will span approximately 16 nautical miles, hugging the northeastern shoreline of the Bayfield Peninsula and taking in stunning views of the Apostle Islands. Here’s how to navigate this route effectively:
1. Initial Departure from Bayfield Upon departing Bayfield, ensure you are familiar with the local navigation aids—especially the markers guiding you out of the harbor. Look for the Bayfield Harbor Light to assist you in a safe exit.
2. Rounding Bayfield Peninsula As you head north, maintain a careful watch for the shallower areas that can be found around the point of the peninsula. The waters are often busy with recreational boats, so giving others plenty of room is advisable.
3. Entering Chequamegon Bay Keep an eye on navigation buoys to help guide you through the bay. Stay alert for fishing vessels and their nets, as this is an active fishing area. Pay attention to local fishing regulations if you’re tempted to drop a line.
4. Shelter Options If the weather takes an unexpected turn, consider docking at the nearby Little Sand Bay. This bay offers excellent shelter from westerly winds and is a great spot to ride out a squall. There’s also a small public beach perfect for a quick break.
5. Continuing Towards Cornucopia As you leave Chequamegon Bay, maintain your course toward Cornucopia. The stretch of water between the two points features fewer obstacles, but weather changes can occur rapidly—stay vigilant. Using applications like Savvy Navvy for real-time tracking can enhance your navigation safety.
This route caters to recreational boaters of all experience levels—whether you’re just starting or possess years of experience. With scenic views, potential stops for exploration, and sufficient shelter options along the way, it is a perfect blend of adventure and safety.
Embarking on a trip from Bayfield to Cornucopia will leave you enchanted with the natural beauty of Lake Superior while ensuring safety at the forefront of your nautical experience. Happy boating!