AT THE HEART OF IT
I started my boating adventure on the St. Croix River and the picturesque inland lakes nearly 20 years ago. When I first set my sights on Lake Superior and the Apostle Islands, I quickly realized I had stumbled upon a true boating paradise! For me, boating means exploring places that are often beyond reach, and with over 750 miles of pristine waters adorned with stunning islands, I found a haven that felt almost untouched by humanity.
Having spent some time in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan, I would often cross through Wisconsin to return to Minnesota. Along the way, the brown sign reading "Apostle Islands National Lakeshore" would always catch my eye, igniting my curiosity about this incredible destination. Finally, the day came when I could explore it myself. I set off with my little 17-foot open bow Glastron, and I’ll never forget that beautiful day when the water was smooth as glass — the ideal conditions for my first adventure.
This was before the age of GPS and smartphones, so I navigated by keeping close to the shoreline, making sure I wouldn’t get lost in the sprawling, magical waters I had long dreamed of exploring. Towering sandstone cliffs rose majestically above vibrant emerald green waters, revealing caves of every shape and size. As I approached the cliffs, the shallow waters allowed me to glimpse the lake's bottom, where large boulders rested alongside rippled sand. It was as if I had finally found the thrilling adventure I had been searching for my entire life!
Over the past 15 years, I’ve brought friends and family to experience this incredible place, discovering something new with each visit. It became clear that working here, doing what I love, was the dream job I’d always yearned for. My journey included becoming the first woman Ice Team Pro, Clam Pro, Vexilar Pro, and Northland Tackle Pro while working with SKS Guides. These experiences led me to obtain my captain’s license, allowing me to share the breathtaking, life-changing excursions that the Apostle Islands offer, creating unforgettable memories for everyone on board!let the adventure begin!
LIVE YOUR TIME LINE!
Captain Shelly Holland, Owner and Operator of Escape Excursions