This year’s Sail Into Your Sanctuary event brought adventure, history, and plenty of on-water time to Thunder Bay National Marine Sanctuary. From August 14–17, 2025, the sanctuary teamed up with Tall Ships America to host a sailing weekend that gave participants the chance to set sail on replica historic schooners and connect more deeply with the region’s Great Lakes maritime past. Nearly 500 people purchased tickets and set sail aboard the tall ships Appledore IV and Alliance, turning Lake Huron into a living snapshot of history.

Throughout the four-day event, visitors boarded the 19th-century-style schooners for 90-minute voyages into the sanctuary waters of Lake Huron. Passengers helped the crew hoist the sails, learned traditional sailing techniques, and took in panoramic views of what many call “Shipwreck Alley.”

Rain or shine, the sails ran smoothly, offering families, locals, and travelers a rare chance to experience Thunder Bay from the deck of a historic vessel.

Daily Highlights

Thursday, August 14

The event kicked off with four sail times—9 AM, 12 PM, 3 PM, and 5 PM.

Friday, August 15

Friday featured five sailings at the same timeslots and a lively lineup of waterfront activities such as:

  • free deck tours aboard Alliance

  • a Battle of the Paddles race on Thunder Bay River hosted by The Dork Brothers, complete with a rooftop viewing party

  • an awards ceremony and reception recognizing the day’s racers

Saturday, August 16

Saturday was filled with both sailing and family-friendly activities at the Great Lakes Maritime Heritage Center. Kids and parents enjoyed story walks in partnership with the Alpena County Library, chalk art, coloring stations, and movie screenings. Another free deck tour of Alliance capped off the afternoon.

Sunday, August 17

The weekend closed with two final sails at 12 PM and 3 PM—one last chance for passengers to take in the sights and sounds of Lake Huron and memories from its past.

Between the tall ship voyages, waterfront events, family activities, and the excitement of seeing the tall ships from shore, this year’s Sail Into Your Sanctuary was a true celebration of Alpena’s long connection to the Great Lakes. The spirit of adventure is alive and well in Alpena—and many are already looking forward to next year’s voyage.