Trip from South Haven to Saugatuck

[Christo]

Hi everyone,

Does anyone know distance by boat from South Haven to Saugatuck? And about how long of a trip it is? I know this depends on boat size, I have a 225 Weekender with a Merc 5.0/BravoIII. Thanks for any input

 

[andy k]

Looks like it is about 20 miles. It would take you about 45 min on plane. Obviously pick a nice weather window and make sure you have a working VHF and cell phone with you.

 

[techmitch]

Hi everyone,

Does anyone know distance by boat from South Haven to Saugatuck? And about how long of a trip it is? I know this depends on boat size, I have a 225 Weekender with a Merc 5.0/BravoIII. Thanks for any input

Looks like 17 miles.

 

[MonacoMike]

Easy run. Just have to be as sure of the weather as possible. I have made many 50 mile trips in a 21 foot bow rider, on the lake, including crossing to Chicago. I also have crossed in perfect conditions in an hour and had an uncomfortable bumpy 4+ hour ride back across...

 

[Christo]

Cool! Great info from you all, can’t wait to get on Lake Michigan!

 

[MiLoII]

Please make sure to plan your trip, wherever your destination.
As Monacomike indicated it can be pure joy or hell depending on conditions. There are weather resources available such as;
https://www.weather.gov/marine/grrmz
Also get the PredictWind app. Use all your sources in combination to build a good picture of the sea state during your planned trip, along with monitering your vhf radio.
Also be sure to plan your fuel consumption. Time to destination has little to do your boat size, rather depends on your cruise speed for your boat / engine package. This is
a short trip but you should know your fuel consumption per hour at various RPM and speeds to ensure you have enough fuel for the round trip, and that you have researched what your refueling options are at the destination so that you can refuel if needed for the return trip.

Stay safe and have fun!

 

[firecadet613]

A very easy trip, pick a day with winds out of the east and it will be smooth sailing!

Personally I like the Windfinder App and the weather.gov link already shared. But, it's the big lake and it can change in a hurry. Fuel up before you head out and you'll be good...

Water levels in South Haven look great! We have a few days already booked there this summer.

 

[Christo]

Great advice, thank you!