LAKE MICHIGAN TRIP FROM INDIANA DUNES TO CHICAGO RIVER

Steve5677

Recruit
Joined
Oct 4, 2016
Messages
1
I have a 24ft Azure 240 open bow with a mercruiser 350 I am trying to plan a 3 day trip next summer starting out and launching in the east arm little Calument River, hang out at the Dunes for the day, Travel to the Ameristar hotel/casino, port in the East Chicago Marina and stay in the hotel. Day 2, travel up the Chicago River just to site see and eat lunch. Then harbor in the Dusable Harbor. Day 3, travel north to Belmont Harbor, catch a game at Wrigley Field, return to Indiana Dunes and pull the boat out of the water.

Any input, ideas, suggestions would be much appreciated. The trip would consist of 4 adults, I plan to keep the bow cover on the boat to help keep us dry if its a little rough. If its too rough we won't travel, we will alter the trip and or wait for the weather to clear. I have read it is best to travel before 10am and after 7pm as the water is the calmest at this time, can anyone comment on this. My biggest concern obviously is the size of my boat and it handling the water.

Things I should have on the boat? Can I get by without a marine radio or should I have one since I will be stopping at 3 different harbors?
 

SeaDooSam

Chief Petty Officer
Joined
Feb 15, 2016
Messages
575
Considering Lake Michigan is basically an ocean, yes I would recommend a Marine radio. You can get one of the ones that is handheld if you just need it for this trip. Make sure you have all the required safety gear for the states you are traveling in. Also first aid kit.
We are on a big lake (nothing compared to Great Lakes). The 10 and 7 rule does seem pretty accurate for us.

Sounds like a great trip but wow you plan ahead!
 

alldodge

Moderator
Staff member
Joined
Mar 8, 2009
Messages
42,054
Yes have at least a hand held VHF, you will be close enough so if an emergency happens you can get a hold of someone. Looks like your trip will be not much ore then 100 miles. The great lakes can change in very short order. If you get in trouble with wind and waves remember keep the bow into it. If the motor knocks out you need enough rope for your anchor to reach the bottom. If you stay close to shore it will be around 50 feet.

Should be a great trip
 
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