Les Chenaux Islands - Experience

[SV Vela]

Hello all.

I was wondering if anyone could shed some light on the Les Chenaux Islands in Lake Huron for me. I have a SO36.2 that drafts 6.5 feet. I have paddled the Les Chenaux's before but have never sailed there and would like to. Would I have any trouble getting into Cedarville with the current water levels? The charts don't inspire confidence.

If anyone is familiar with the area I would love to hear about your experiences.

Thanks
Erik

[MGRodems]

We took our Irwin 43 through the Le Chenaux Islands last summer. While we draw only 5 feet, we had depths that were very sufficient all through the islands. We anchored out front of Cedarville for a few nights, but saw a couple large sailboats with more draft than us go in and out without issues.

These islands and passages were one of the highlights of our 66 day trip last summer.

[LittleWing77]

Please note that because of the 2019 Great Lakes floods, the IJC (International Joint Commission - responsible for Great Lakes water regulation https://ijc.org/en) has been letting maximum flows out of the Lakes ever opportunity since.

Generally, 2021 saw less-than-charted depths everywhere in the Great Lakes. We Lake Ontario sailors noted generally that depths were shallower everywhere we sailed.

Just something to keep in mind,
Fair winds,
LittleWing77

[MGRodems]

I agree that 2021 lake depths were lower than previous years. We saw that on Erie, Huron and Michigan. I thought we were still above low water datum though.
Based on Little Wing's comment about the IJC, we will see lower levels in 2022.