Windward Bound is a live-aboard voyaging experience for teens ages 14 to 18. The teens sail aboard the 85-foot schooner Appledore IV and the 65-foot schooner Appledore V. During the voyages, we focus on seamanship and freshwater science, which means learning the art of traditional sailing and studying the ecology of the lakes you’re sailing on.

As the ships sail 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. Occasionally, we visit small port towns. Voyage highlights include trips ashore in the ship’s tenders, exploration of uninhabited islands, and beach cookouts.

2017 voyages will follow Appledore V on a journey from Bay City, Michigan to Quebec City, Quebec.

The Appledore IV and Appledore V are licensed and inspected by the U.S. Coast Guard and are crewed by a licensed captain, mate, and additional deckhands. Windward Bound is licensed by the State of Michigan as a youth travel camp.