Chicago to the Atlantic by Sail: You Can, But Should You?
Ah, Chicago. City of wind, deep dish pizza, and... ocean access? You might be surprised, but yes, dear reader, you can actually set sail from the Windy City and end up in the vast expanse of the Atlantic Ocean. But before you dust off your Captain Ahab hat, there are a few things to consider. This ain't exactly a hop, skip, and a nautical jig.
The Great Lakes Waterway: Not Your Average Bathtub
First things first, Chicago sits pretty on the shores of Lake Michigan, one of the Great Lakes. These aren't your backyard ponds, folks. We're talking massive bodies of freshwater, perfect for, well, holding a whole lot of water. But what they lack in salinity, they make up for in a nifty little highway called the Great Lakes Waterway. Think of it as a secret passage for water-obsessed adventurers.
The Not-So-Mighty Mississippi? Think Again!
Now, you might be picturing a grand journey down the Mississippi River, Huck Finn style. Hold your catfish po'boys! The Mississippi doesn't exactly connect to the Great Lakes. But fear not, there's a network of canals and rivers that act like an aquatic backdoor to the Atlantic. The star of this show is the St. Lawrence Seaway, a man-made marvel that lets you bypass Niagara Falls (unless you're into that whole defying-gravity thing). Just be sure to brush up on your French-Canadian pleasantries – a "Merci beaucoup" goes a long way when navigating giant locks.
Be Prepared for an Epic Voyage (with Snacks!)
This Chicago to Atlantic odyssey is no weekend jaunt. We're talking weeks, depending on the size of your vessel and your tolerance for, well, being surrounded by a whole lot of water. Important: Pack enough snacks. Like, a lot of snacks. Being hangry in the middle of Lake Erie is not a vibe.
Not All Boats Are Created Equal
Your trusty inflatable pool raft just won't cut it here, champ. The Great Lakes and the Atlantic can get a bit... boisterous. You'll need a seaworthy vessel, something that can handle waves and, you know, not sink.
Pro Tip: For the St. Lawrence Seaway, there are size restrictions. Think freighters, cargo ships, or maybe even adventurous yachts (with very experienced captains) – not your average pontoon party boat.
So, Should You Do It?
Absolutely! If you have the time, the boat, and the serious need to avoid traffic, then sailing from Chicago to the Atlantic is an incredible adventure. Just be sure you're prepared for the long haul, and maybe pack a good seasickness remedy (just in case).
Now, if you'll excuse me, I need to go find a giant inflatable pizza to conquer the Great Lakes on. Those Chicago deep dish cravings are getting real.
