A perfect summer day in July. A slight breeze out of the west, sunshine and blue sky were all that we needed for a great day on Lake Charlevoix in Northern Michigan. We started the day putting in at the community launch and dock in Boyne City. A nice facility with convenient boat trailer parking.
We cruised up the northern coastline for a while before cutting across the lake to the south shore heading toward Ironton, home of the infamous Ironton Car Ferry that gives vehicles a short cut between Boyne City and Charlevoix crossing over the south arm of Lake Charlevoix. The beautiful homes along this route were incredible to see. We darted into the south arm for an hour or so and then back out to resume our quest to cruise up to the city of Charlevoix.
Arriving at the mouth of Charlevoix's Round Lake, we passed the U.S. Coast Guard Station and made way to the Day Dock that backs up to Charlevoix's main shopping district. We tied up and checked in with the harbormaster and were pleased to learn that docking up was free on the Day Dock. What a pleasant surprise! We felt very welcome and right at home as the dock hands were helpful as well. The four of us hit a variety of shops and outlets, watched sail boats go under the drawbridge on their way out to Lake Michigan, and finally stopped in at Whitney's Oyster Bar for a beverage and a round of shrimp cocktail. Delightful, if I do say so.
We jumped back in the boat, had a short swim in the lake, and decided we would cruise back to Boyne City for dinner at the Red Mesa Grille. I highly recommend the Armadillo Eggs if you haven't tried them! Dinner was followed by a short walk down the street to enjoy a waffle cone for dessert.
All in all, it was a great day on the lake. Easy in, easy out at the launch... outstanding shopping and food in both Charlevoix and Boyne City, and great company on board made for a perfect day trip. Lake Charlevoix was the highlight of our summer boating excursions!
No comments:
Post a Comment