Porphyry Island Lighthouse and Nature Reserve offers stunning surroundings where light keepers have lived for 150 years.
A community or corporate group interested in exploring, the arts, photography, nature travel, or other activities can use Porphyry Island lighthouse as a base camp for their retreat. The lighthouse is located 45km east of Thunder Bay and is only accessible by boat. The retreat lasts three days and takes advantage of a scheduled charter route and discounted rate. The total cost for four people includes the charter fee from Silver Islet and a three-day house rental amounts to $870 or $217.50 per person. (other guest and options available as the house sleep six, with additional accommodations available.) We provide lunch options for groups if you are just interested in staying the day.
After sending us an email of your intended date, we’ll arranging transportation and house rental, which includes an onsite safety orientation, guided lighthouse tour, and introduction to the Island’s features. The black sands beach offers scenic walking trails and a place to sunbathe.
Visitors can experience life as a light keeper on a Lake Superior island and learn about its history. Activities include photography, yoga, fitness, lighthouse book reviews, environmental issues, and art.
Enjoy a lightkeeper’s experience during the day with morning and afternoon sessions at various learning locations, followed by relaxation at night with saunas, campfires, and stargazing. The keeper’s dwelling provides basic amenities for the four-day stay, including a kitchen helper. Explore Lake Superior’s natural environment, including black-sand beaches with shipwreck debris and sea glass left behind by former keepers, and enjoy a slower pace of time.
As a visitor of the Group Retreat, bring your sleeping bag, pillowcase, and layered clothing. The accommodation includes a house with six beds, solar & generator power, running water, wood and propane stoves, and a fridge. You need to bring your own food, and WiFi is available for those without cell service. After an orientation, you can start your retreat or relax. If you have more people, you can book the prospector tent
Potential dates for the 2025 Season.
July 3-6, 2025
July 10-13 , 2025
July 17-20, 2025
July 24-27, 2025
July 31-1 Aug., 2025
August 7-10 , 2025
August 14-17 2025
August 21-24, 2025
Email us to make a booking or to ask further questions
