Great thread, we are looking into an Isle Royale voyage with Made It next July.
My initial thought would be to splash at Eagle Harbor and make the ~60 mile run as weather and sea conditions allow.
For those that have done it, can you advise suggestions for a first time voyage? Is extended truck/trailer parking available in Eagle Harbor?
Yes, parking is fine at Eagle Harbor marina. Portage canal's North Entry launch from Lilly Pond would be an alternative as well as Copper Harbor. I did this trip many times now, and depending on what part of the island I planned to visit determined my launch location.
My tips: depending how much boating you do out there, fuel may only be available at one end of the island or the other. I have taken a couple jerry cans and dumped them in as soon as I crossed and had no need for fuel otherwise. Depth charts are not accurate for large portions of the island, navigate carefully, calm conditions and good sunglasses have helped me in many occasions. I prefer the east end and around the north side for fishing but it can be good everywhere. Lots of reefs and structure. Awesome scenery, good history, fun stops all over to check out lighthouses. Mott island will have helpful folks if you need anything in the way of help/service. Of course it can be cold, it snowed on us in June one time, and once it warms up mosquitoes are intense, especially in the protected coves, but usually thin out later summer. I prefer late May or early June trips, but I'm equipped with heat in the pilothouse.
Not sure if Rocky is still there annually, but he was at Belle Isle I believe.
It's a big island and gets busier as the summer goes on. Some docks are full, your plans may change on whim where you planned to stay for the night dictated by occupancy and weather. Northerly winds for the intial crossing may it a long trip, but pick your weather windows and you will be okay. Plan to use your radar and watch out in the shipping lanes.
Let me know if you need any specific information, have fun, take pictures!
