IF LAKE SUPERIOR doesn’t live up to its name in your mind, it’s likely because you haven’t gotten close enough to it. And few opportunities exist that let you soak up the majesty (sometimes literally) of the most gargantuan Great Lake like a sailboat cruise out of the Thunder Bay harbour.

Run by the affable Captain Gregory Heroux, Sail Superior specializes in short daytime and extended evening harbour tours, usually aboard the Frodo, a humble 40-footer that has been slicing waves for nearly a decade. The harbour tours feature spectacular views of the lush landscape surrounding Thunder Bay, and investigate man-made features along the shoreline such as grain elevators, weathered ocean freighters and retired vessels, and an enormous, fortress-like ship-loading dock. Extended private charters, team-building trips and multi-day excursions are also available, and can include forays onto the Sleeping Giant peninsula, sailing instruction and on-board catering.

Sail Superior also boasts perhaps the most unique overnight stay option in the city: a dockside B&B aboard a 38-foot sailboat ($129 per night for two). The boat is rustic and charming, outfitted with comfortable linens, ample snacks and plenty of interesting seafaring paraphernalia. And it doesn’t get much better than having the Lake Superior shore as your outdoor patio for a night.