Fossil Walks

One of the features of the North Channel which has always amazed me is the variety of geological structures.  Ancient granite, sparkling white dolomite and more recent limestone formations are frequently visible in the same locale. Effects of glaciation can be most dramatically felt on South Benjamin Island. The accompanying vegetations and micro-ecosystems are equally diverse and fascinating.
I have found several places in the channel with surprisingly well preserved fossil beds dating from the Ordovician and Silurian periods (488 - 416 million years ago). Armed with an on-board library, we will be examining these fascinating relics of the past while visiting several spectacular anchorages.

Sunrise off South Benjamin Island

Imagine waking up to the sounds of bullfrogs, loons, chickadees, sandhill cranes, gulls and Canadian geese as you watch the sunrise reflected in crystal clear waters of a secluded harbor. Just another average day when cruising in the Canadian North Channel.

Watercolor Excursion - July 2009

Exploration Sailing Charters is collaborating with the Cycling Salamander Art Gallery in Charlevoix, Michigan in order to offer Art/Sailing Excursions. Betty Bea Washburn, one of the exhibiting artists at Cycling Salamander, will be leading a week-long intuitive painting class on Miigwahs, "Little Wing" July 26 to August 1, 2009. Washburn will lead the class in twice daily instruction. Students will need to bring basic art supplies. (Details provided after registering). Penistan will be guiding the class to his favorite islands and inlets in the North Channel of Canada (only accessible by boat) giving students the opportunity to paint some of the most spectacular sites in the Great Lakes including the Benjamin Islands. Come paint and sail in the country that inspired the famous Group of Seven painters. Participants will sleep and eat on the boat with trips to shore for painting and sightseeing. Free time will be available for hiking, reading, photography, painting and sailing from one pristine venue to another. The class is open to all skill levels but it is limited to just FOUR participants, so hurry and reserve your spot now!