FAQ's

THE SAILING EXPERIENCE, WEATHER, AND OTHER FAQ's

Motor cruising is a popular, and enjoyable option in Chicago. However, sailing aboard a schooner is much more unique and memorable venue, as the ship is truly a traditional rig made of traditional materials, beautiful to look at and photograph, and fun and lively on the water. You can really "feel" the outdoor experience of boating, the breeze and the sound of the waves, without the noise of a diesel engine to dampen your conversation, or feeling cooped up inside a glass-walled indoor salon.

Also, because of our limit to 49 guests, sailing with us is a much more private and intimate experience, where you can get to know the captains and crew personally, share stories and learn about schooner sailing.

The unique aspects of sailing with us extend beyond the uniqueness of the vessel. We provide a yachting experience with a highly personal touch. We take time to get to know our guests and their tastes and preferences. We don't "lock" you into a pre-set schedule or a "cattle call" experience of being herded onto a crowded boat. We don't force you to endure overpriced liquor packages, or skimpy or bland catered food at inflated prices - Instead, you are in control of the dining choices AND the budget

Red Witch is suited perfectly for sailors and non-sailors. We take the time to get to know our passengers, and those who want to get involved with hoisting and trimming sails, taking a try at the helm, are invited to do so! Most of our captains and staff, are actually seasoned sailing teachers and coaches, and don't hesitate (when asked) to launch into lessons and advice for the novices and the veteran sailors too.

It is true that you will feel a slight angle of "lean" or "heel" when the ship is pointed in certain directions. However, Red Witch has a broad full keel (or "bottom"), and weighs 41 tons, so she tends to be quite stable even when it is windy out. You can easily walk about the boat without losing your balance or your sandwich. When the wind comes from the northerly directions, there may be more waves on the lake, or "swells". Occasionally despite the overall stability of Red Witch, someone who is susceptible to motion sickness may experience discomfort. There are some things we can do about that: First, the crew will brief you before departure if there are some wavy conditions, so that guests who may want to take remedies for motion sickness can do so in advance. Such remedies, non-drowsy Dramamine, for example are available on board. In addition, the city of Chicago has a large concrete "breakwall" about a mile offshore, which extends the length of the cityfront, which protects the bay and harbors from the swells. In this case, on a "rolly" day, the Captain may choose to sail inside the breakwall which provides a more sheltered and calm ride during your sail. Red Witch is also equipped with a Detroit Diesel engine which is in use when entering or leaving the harbor, or whenever the weather or waves make it prudent to use the engine to aid propulsion. For other weather issues, …….see below

The Captain and crew of Red Witch are dedicated to your comfort and safety. We monitor highly detailed reports and weather radar, available specifically for maritime professionals, which give us extensive information about the nature of that day's weather, wind patterns, wind strengths, and expected changes. There is even information about WHERE in the city or metropolitan area, a weather change will be located- south side, north side, or across the metro area. There are basically two major things to be aware of for a sailing vessel: the potential for strong winds and rain or thunderstorms. In the event that such conditions might arise during the cruise, the Captain will choose one of several options: In the case of severe weather expected, a cruise may have to be rescheduled. Or, the captain may delay the beginning of a cruise for a short time until a shower passes through the city, or, may divert the route while underway to avoid the weather exposure. If the wind picks up, the crew will reduce the amount of sail on the ship, in order to keep the ship stable and comfortable. On rare occasions, a cruise may have to end early because of unavoidable weather. Generally, the crew's extensive training in multiple weather conditions, and the preparations in advance of the trip, will enable us to make the best decisions for the guests while underway. We encourage you to ask questions to the crew, if you feel the least bit concerned about the weather.

Downstairs in the cabin, you will find a spacious salon with a dining table and settees, a "head" or toilet with sink, another cabin where you can stretch out on a berth (a "bunk") for a nap, or change clothes. There are also coolers and iceboxes, shelves for personal gear, and a set of cabinets containing dishware, glasses, paper goods, and snacks. The ship's toolroom, navigation station, and engine room are also below.