Lighthouse Tours

Step into the shoes of a lighthouse keeper on a craggy rocky island with a breathtaking panoramic view on one of our four tours. These unique location once were home to light keepers and their  families, now held in trust for all to explore. Experience Superior explore the island, envisioning what life was like for those who lived here many years ago.

Take a journey back in time and explore the volcanic landscape of a billion years ago when you hop aboard a charter from Silver Islet Harbour. Our tours provide an unforgettable island adventure with stunning vistas and unique experiences that will stay with you forever. Book Sunday’s Tour or Book Thursday’s Tour to Porphyry or The Lighthouse Trail Discovery Tour on alternating Saturdays departing from Thunder Bay by Sail Superior. New this year – Trowbridge Lighthouse Tour – alternating Wednesdays July & August.

Lighthouse Tours
Capt. Archie Hoogsteen and a group of visitors travel to Porphyry Island.

If you’re looking for an adventure, consider a charter tour starting from Silver Islet. This tour takes you over the historic silver mine and across Black Bay, where you’ll be able to enjoy a stunning panoramic view of the Sleeping Giant as you pass through the mine shafts’ glimmering shadows.

Once you reach Porphyry Island, take some time to appreciate the unique climate and plant habitat, and listen to the light keepers’ stories during a guided or self-guided tour. Lighthouses offer a variety of perspectives to explore, from keepers and their chickens to ships that were run aground by the light itself.

Embark on a delightful journey to the lighthouse, which will take you just 15 minutes or take the new Mosquito Express solar powered people mover. Your charter captain will regale you with tales of local attractions on the water and around Porphyry Island. Once you reach the island, there’s much more to discover and learn. Enjoy a leisurely picnic lunch, (or order a lunch at the light keepers table as an add-on when booking your ticket) take in the breathtaking view of the black sands beaches, swim in the refreshing waters, or simply relax and unwind.

Children still play at the lighthouse. The keeper’s children had many adventures to share.
Children still play at the lighthouse. The keeper’s children had many adventures to share.

Order your lunch on line or at the boathouse upon arrival. For all visitors we provide a mandatory safety briefing and orientation prior to exploring the island. Book Sunday’s Tour or Book Thursday’s Tour. The Lighthouse Trail Discovery Tour is also available from Sail Superior, departing from Thunder Bay to Porphyry Island on alternating Saturdays. 

Featured Areas

Click on one of the areas below to learn more about some of our popular sections.

Excursions

Currently the lighthouse group features three excursions to interest any visitor.

Volunteers

Volunteers provide support to promote, maintain, and manage our heritage.

Our Events

A Calendar and list of all of our upcoming Events from the lighthouse group.