Crossing Lake Michigan

[tompolak]

So this past weekend we were getting a Vessel Safety Check and the person doing the check made a comment that this would be a great boat to cross Lake Michigan with. I am wondering if anyone has ever done that with a Macgregor X/M. I have the boat on a slip in Racine, Wi (it was cheap) so it seems that it would be about 70 miles to the other side. So obviously you would want to do this when the lake warms up more and the weather is really good.

So has anyone ever done this? Do you sail or power across or a combo of both? Do you run into problems? Other opinions or experiences?

[tangentair]

For what it is worth, I haven't taken our Mac across* but have gone across on keel boats of a similar size, It's no big deal with wind and weather conditions favorable, just the bugs are really bad mid-lake and you have to watch for the freighters and tugs. It is an overnighter if you sail so all of the rules of watch standing etc apply. You want to probably arrive and leave in daylight so make your motor/sail plan accordingly. I wouldn't worry about the boat - it is more if your up to a long - 70+ miles depending upon tacks - sail. We went across from Belmont Harbor Chicago to Benton Harbor Mi. about 65 miles I think and it took us about 16 hours to cross and 14 to come back on our 28 ft that has a speed of 6kts in a strong wind down hill. It was a long 3 day weekend. And those who drove around the lake to meet us made it in 3 hours with traffic. Here is a good PDF to see if your boat is "equip'd" properly - 2009 MACKINAC SAFETY REGULATIONS Not everything applies to a pleasure cruise

* now having said that I would add that I have no intention of taking the Mac across, I would rather use the time driving up to the Apostiles, or Upper Green Bay, or North Western Michigan, Lake Huron, etc and then sail. The middle of the lake is boring and the fishing sucks.

[tompolak]

Thanks for the quick answer. I don't have a desire to do it, but I was just curious as I have not thought about before he mentioned it. I think it may be one of those things that people do just to say they have done it.

I read somewhere else that the flies are really bad in the middle of the lake, any ideas why that is? Just seems weird to me that they would like to play so far offshore.

[wccorder]

Last August I drove up to Charlevoix and than sailed over to Beaver Island, about 35 miles. Motored most of the way since we had no wind to speak of. On the way back sailed about 3/4 across and than motored. The handled great, no problems. I know of folks from the UP that have traversed the great lakes in thier Macs. They love it. If yo do cross, look for J.A.W.S. in South Haven, maybe we could hook up for a sail or better a BEER.
Best of luck.

[pokerrick1]

I read somewhere else that the flies are really bad in the middle of the lake, any ideas why that is? Just seems weird to me that they would like to play so far offshore.

My guess is that is where the freighters dump their **** ! (Nah, that would be against the law!)

Rick

[tangentair]

I really don't know how the flies and other bugs live in the middle of the lake but millions of them seem to thrive there, yesterday I was listening at lunch on the vhf to the salmon/trout boats and they were complaining that the bugs were the only things biteing - they were around 1-2 miles out from the base and I have experienced that same band of bugs regulariy each summer about a half mile to a mile out when I go out of Highland Park for some day sailing. I just ordered no-see-um netting from Defender and plan to make a screen bimini so we can enjoy the sun and quiet without their company. Not sure if I can make it so I can still sail but it is near the top of my to do list. I know two boats that quit the MAC last year because the winds were so light and the bugs so bad.
BTW I did not mean to imply that I had sailed the Apostiles, or Upper Green Bay, or North Western Michigan, or Lake Huron with my MAC but that is why I bought the it, now I just need the time and gas prices so I can go.

[Scott]

Mark motored across the northern end I believe 2 years ago.

PM Member "Rowdy"

[ROAD Soldier]

If those flies are Bitting flies then it just not a freshwater thing. In the middle of the Chesapeake Bay the flies are bad. Near shore mosquitoes but in the middle of the bay bitting flies. The flies are the worst because mosquitoes repellent doesnt work on them, only a spray bottle of 50% listerine and 50% water works for awhile but you have to use it about every 15min.

[ronacarme]

Crossed years ago S. Haven- Milwaukee in Hunter 30. Sailed, was headed and so motored the last 25 miles. 4am -8pm. Would love to try it on my X but not enuf guts yet to do it. Ron

[Sloop John B]

Three miles out in the Gulf and we get attacked by black flies just after a fishing vessel passed. Bite right through thick wool socks. Sprayed ankles and collar, etc., with Hot Shot and was able to survive. These things must be able to light on the water, I can't see them coming out that far for a meal.