Immerse Yourself in a Night of Tranquility and History on Charity Island in Saginaw Bay

Unveiling the Mystique of Charity Island

Charity Island LIght 1990


Located in the heart of Saginaw Bay, the verdant Charity Islands are a sight to behold. Comprising of Big and Little Charity Islands, this archipelago is a mere ten miles from the Michigan Thumb. The islands are mostly uninhabited, save for the seasonal residents who operate dinner cruises at the lighthouse keepers' house. Recognized by the US Fish and Wildlife Services as one of the most remote and least visited islands in the Michigan Island National Wildlife Sanctuary, the Charity Islands are surrounded by rock-filled, treacherous waters, adding to their elusive charm.

Charity Island: A Statistical Overview

Big Charity Island, the largest island on the US side of Lake Huron, spans a staggering 250 acres. Its imposing silhouette at the mouth of Saginaw Bay is a sight to behold. The island is home to an 11-acre spring-fed pond encircled by reeds, a favored nesting ground for Bald Eagles and other birds. Consequently, the Wildlife Service has designated both islands as off-limits for camping and hunting due to their importance as a rookery in the region.

Exploring the Enchanting Charity Island

Charity Island Map


Despite its remoteness, Charity Island attracts hundreds of visitors each year. Excursion boats from Au Gres or Caseville ferry tourists to the island, where they can explore the lighthouse and keepers' house. However, due to its designation as a Michigan National Wildlife Refuge, the rest of the island is off-limits to visitors.

Experience the Charity Island Dinner Cruise (No Longer Available)

Chairity Island Cruise


Previously, the Lady of the Lake tour boat would embark on a signature Charity Island Dinner Cruise on weekends from Memorial Day through September. This approximately six-hour experience included a presentation on the island’s history, a gourmet dinner, and time to tour and explore the historic lighthouse and keepers’ home. The trip would conclude with a light dessert and coffee on the return journey to Caseville harbor.

Planning Your Visit to Charity Island: Costs and Considerations

The all-inclusive dinner cruise cost $98 for adults, half-price for children aged 3-12, and free for children under three. Boarding times varied due to sunset timings, but the entire trip typically lasted five and a half to six hours. The cruise required a minimum of 25 passengers to schedule an excursion, and the schedule was subject to weather conditions.

For Reservations or Further Information

For more information on the Charity Island excursion, you can contact Explorer Charters Cruise Lines via phone or email.

Related Reading

  • Indian Trails of Michigan's Thumb

  • Saginaw Trail Today - A Photo Journey

  • Michigan Indian Tribal Wars and Sebewaing’s Giant Oak

  • Charity Island Dinner Cruises Begin at Caseville

  • The Time Kool Cigarettes Sold Sailboats
Original article on Michigan4you


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