“It’s a cross between the Galapagos Islands and an east coast lighthouse” – Rebekka Redd visit to Porphyry Island 2019.
Framing the picture.
Drop in anytime for a visit.
Come for the ride.
Do a yoga retreat.
Help out.
See the sites.
Come for the storms.
Stay for the sunsets.

Living and working at a lighthouse is a once in a lifetime experience through our programs, events and excursions, you have many opportunities to retreat to the past island life.

Light keeper’s and their family also had amazing life experiences operating these lighthouses since 1873 and include local families such as the Merritt’s, McKay’s, Dick’s and Graham’s!

Ship-to-Shore radiophone.

Living on an isolated volcanic at our main lighthouse site, Porphyry Island, pummelled by Lake Superior in view of the Sleeping Giant, echo’s of yesteryear’s coureur de bois. This included mineral hounds, fisherman and lumber barons! Most are gone now, but the lighthouse stories still are celebrated. 

Visitors to Porphyry Island can come spend the day or as stay longer as a host light keeper or as a summer student working as a lighthouse navigator. There’s lots to learn onsite at the light keeper’s dwellings. 

Be creative.

Lightkeeper Tour :  Weekly tours of historic Porphyry Island Lighthouse where you can experience firsthand the life and adventure of a Lake Superior light keeper. Climb aboard a charter and into Sleeping Giant country dotted with amazing islands in turquoise waters. Take in a breath-taking view of Black Bay. Experience the Gordon Graham Gallery, tower view, mini museum and learn about previous keepers.

Getting there is half the fun!
Capt. Archie Hoogsteen and group comes to visit Porphyry Island.
Lots to explore.

Become a Host Keeper Program:  Hop on our lighthouse charter from Thunder Bay or Silver Islet and be a keeper of the light for a one-week term at Porphyry Island Lighthouse. Spend time at this exciting destination and experience the life of a light keeper. Volunteers meet visitors daily, provide tours, do daily chores and help visitors navigate the lighthouse site. During time off explore Islands, swim, snorkel, hike to the black sands beach or take in constellation-filled nights. 

“If it moves, oil it! If not, paint it” Former Light Keeper Graham

Volunteer for a day, a week: Work with others, develop skills, and build your network. Join the lighthouse team and contribute to preserve our lighthouses. Volunteers to Join us on our Spring cleanup at Porphyry and two weeks later at Trowbridge Island Lighthouse. 

Volunteering takes many forms.

Guest House Rental:  Living in the light keeper’s dwelling connects you to the amazing history of Porphyry Point Lighthouse, but getting there is half the fun. Located on Porphyry Island, 40 km east of Thunder Bay, this homestead offers a unique perspective of the life of a light keeper and their family. With running water, hydro and a propane stove & fridge, this rustic dwelling has what you need to further explore this unique destination. The three-bedroom dwelling has a working kitchen and can accommodate six. Step outside and go for a hike, play on the front lawn or venture along the shoreline. Stay for one night or several. Includes our mini museum, Gordon Graham Art Gallery, tower climb, nature walks, sandy beach and guided tour.  2021 Season inquiries?

Lego it up and have fun!

Join and become a Member: As a member of the Canadian Lighthouses of Lake Superior Inc. (CLLS) you will actively support the preservation of Canada’s Lighthouse heritage, stories and buildings. Each membership helps with CLLS’s ability to preserve and share the story of lighthouses on Lake Superior. Membership includes event invitations, a quarterly newsletter, volunteer opportunities and more.

Being part of something that builds longterm friendships!