Drummond Island is ideally situated for water sports, whether cruising, paddling, or day sailing. It lies amidst smaller islands at a point near where Lakes Huron, Michigan, and Superior come together. Just 35 miles from the Straits of Mackinac leading to Lake Michigan, the waters of the St. Mary’s River flow from Lake Superior on Drummond’s west side, and the famed North Channel of Lake Huron starts on the north side of the island.
In beautiful Potagannissing Bay with its many islands, the yachtsman can enjoy sailing from an anchorage at Harbor Island or a slip at Drummond Island Yacht Haven, returning in the evening after a day spent enjoying the up-close views and unfolding vistas of all the islands in the bay, as well as Canada’s St. Joseph Island to the north.
Another interesting day trip is a run out to the restored DeTour Reef Lighthouse. The DeTour Reef Lighthouse Preservation Society has worked hard to renovate the light, and it’s worth the time to pass by and see.
It is possible to circumnavigate Drummond in a day, exploring the deep waters close to shore for glimpses of wildlife, but why pass all the cozy anchorages without stopping in?
Further away, a short trip to the west brings the visitor to Les Cheneaux Islands, their many passages well-marked for navigating the protected waters among the beautiful summer cottages there, with numerous vintage mahogany runabouts zipping about. Mackinac Island is but a short trip from there. Its historic harbor invites the cruiser in from the open lake.
A slightly longer ride to the east of Drummond Island brings the traveler to the heart of the North Channel, known worldwide for its stunning scenery and quiet anchorages. The relatively protected waters there make a summer cruise from Drummond Island an enjoyable sojourn, with the wild magic of Georgian Bay just beyond.
To the north, up the St. Mary’s River, lies Lake Superior for the intrepid boater. The largest lake is said to contain 10% of the world’s fresh water and is truly an inland sea. Isle Royale, the Keweenaw Peninsula.
Drummond Island is a great place to visit, with possibilities in all directions; no matter which way the wind blows, the sailing is fantastic!
