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The Commercial Use Authorization (CUA) authorizes businesses to provide certain commercial services not typically provided by concession contract within the boundary of Apostle Islands National Lakeshore (APIS).
The CUA is a privilege subject to the supervision of the park Superintendent. Specific terms and conditions apply.
Commercial Use Authorizations (CUAs) are one method of authorizing commercial visitor services.
CUAs at APIS are authorized for two years.
There is no right or guarantee of renewal. Permittee must reapply for a new CUA for succeeding periods upon expiration of the current CUA.
A non-refundable application fee and a market price fee, based on gross receipts of the business applies.
CUAs are not considered concession contracts. These services need not be "necessary" but are "appropriate" services that may enhance the visitor experience, and have been determined to have minimal impact on resources and park values.
Commercial business activity is prohibited within the park unless a CUA has been granted by the park (36 CFR Sec. 5.3).
General CUA Information
What is a Commercial Use Authorization (CUA)?
36 CFR Section 5.3 states, "Engaging in or soliciting any business in park areas, except in accordance with the provisions of a permit, contract, or other written agreement with the United States, except as specifically authorized under special regulations applicable to a park area, is prohibited."
CUAs fall under the authority of Section 418 of the National Park Service Concession Management Improvement Act of 1998 (16 U.S.C 5966 Public Law 105-81). The section authorizes the National Park Service to issue CUAs to individuals, corporations, and other entities to provide commercial services to park visitors in limited circumstances.
Operating a commercial activity in the park without a CUA permit will result in the issuance of a legal warning, federal citation, or a mandatory federal court appearance.
What commercial activities are authorized at Apostle Islands National Lakeshore?
The following commercial activities are currently approved for CUA issuance at APIS:
Non-motorized Boat Tours: Guided Kayak Tours
Non-motorized Boat Tours: Guided Montreal Canoe Tours
Non-motorized Boat Tours: Guided Kayak Tours with Support Vessel
Guided Backcountry Camping
Motorized Boat Tours: Sailboat and Motorboat Tours, plus Water Taxi
Fishing Charters
What are the general criteria for the issuance of a CUA?
The authorization is issued to a qualified operator to authorize the provision of appropriate commercial services to park area visitors. A qualified operator is an organization that the Superintendent determines has the ability to satisfactorily provide visitor services and carry out the terms of the CUA.Authorized commercial services must:
Have minimal impact on park resources and values.
Be consistent with the purpose for which the park area was established.
Be consistent with all applicable park area management plans, policies, and regulations.
How to Apply
The CUA application window will open January 5 through February 27, 2026.
All CUA applications must be submitted through the National Park Service’s newly launched online CUA portal. This streamlined platform is designed to make the process more efficient and accessible for all users. We encourage all interested parties to register their companies and familiarize themselves with the new system ahead of the application period. While operators can only apply during the designated application period, registration can be completed at any time by clicking on the “Sign in” button on the top right of the landing page and clicking “Create an account” on the following page. Please follow the instructions as outlined in this video when applying.
The Holder must agree to comply with all of the general and specific conditions described in the CUA conditions. You should familiarize yourself with these documents before applying for a CUA.
Park Specific Conditions: These conditions apply to every CUA issued at Apostle Islands National Lakeshore
Activity Specific Conditions: These conditions address specific operating requirements for each approved commercial activity. Read the Activity Specific Conditions that are relevant to your business.
Before you spend $375 to apply for a CUA, you want to be certain you're willing and able to comply with all regulations and conditions. The application fee is non-refundable.
Application Checklist
The following documentation must be submitted through your online application no later than February 27, 2026:
Application checklist: initialed and signed.
Proof of Insurance – submitted in Acord Format (See Attachment A for instructions)
Completed and signed Commercial Use Authorization Application Form (Form 10-550).
Operations plan for your business (Document G - Operations Plan Instructions).
Proof that your business is registered with the State of Wisconsin Department of Revenue. If you are a nonprofit organization or educational institution, please contact the Commercial Services Manager at (715)-209-2452 for guidance.
$375 non-refundable payment of application fee.
Once your application has been processed, you will be notified if your CUA has been rejected or tentatively approved.
By May 1, 2026, you must submit the following:
Submission of proof of liability insurance is required if any changes occur since original submission of insurance documents during the application process (i.e. new policy, renewal of policy, change in coverages, etc). Instruct your insurance company to send an insurance certificate naming the United States of America as an additional insured to the Commercial Services Office of Apostle Islands National Lakeshore. Refer to Attachment A: CUA Insurance Requirements within From 10-550 (Commercial Use Authorization Application and Instructions).
Employee/Guide List - attach copies of certifications and licenses required for the service you're providing. NOTE: It is recognized that you may not complete your seasonal hiring and training until mid-June. Please submit the Employee/Guide List and certifications for owners and permanent employees by May 1 and update as new employees are hired and trained. No employee may work in the park until the CUA Holder submits their name and certifications to the Commercial Services office.
Document E-1 for all other services (PDF - fillable form, 567KB)
Vehicle and Vessel Registration Form [Document D] (will be sent via email). All vehicles and vessels used to provide services under the terms of this CUA must be legally insured, registered/leased to the CUA Holder or the CUA Holders business (to which the CUA is issued.) Copies of registration and proof of insurance for vehicles must be included with this form.
Once the Commercial Services office confirms receipt of all required documents, the official Commercial Use Authorization [Form 10-115] will be issued, no later than May 15, 2026.
Apostle Islands National Lakeshore is implementing some changes to its Commercial Use Authorization (CUA) program for the 2026 and 2027 operating seasons.
Updates
The CUA Application fee is $375.
The CUA will be issued for a two-season term (2026 and 2027).
The approved services are Non-motorized Boat Tours (Kayaking), Non-motorized Boat Tours (Montreal Canoe), Non-motorized Boat Tours (Kayaking with Support Vessel), Motorized Boat Tours (Sailboat, Motorboat, Water Taxi), Fishing Charters, and Guided Backcountry Camping. No new CUA activities will be approved during this application period.
The National Park Service (NPS) is required to collect a reasonable fee for CUAs at an amount at least sufficient to recover the costs to the NPS in administering and managing CUAs (Public Law 105-391, Section 418). The following will be billed to the CUA holder at the end of the operating seasons in 2026 and 2027:
Non-motorized boat trips with up to 10 trips per season - $250 or 1% of gross receipts, whichever is greater
Non-motorized boat trips with more than 10 trips per season - $500 or 3% of gross receipts, whichever is greater
All other approved CUA activities - $500 or 3% of gross receipts, whichever is greater
For Guided Kayaking:
Each guide must undergo a skill assessment and certification conducted by a qualified Senior Lead Guide/Instructor, using new guide classification criteria developed by the National Park Service.
CUA Holders conducting more than ten (10) Guided Kayak Tours per season will no longer need to submit trip itineraries. They will submit a simple monthly report instead. CUA Holders conducting ten (10) or fewer Guided Kayak Tours per season are still required to submit trip itineraries in advance of each trip.
CUA Activity Conditions
The following conditins apply to Commercial Use Authorization (CUA) holders within the National Lakeshore
Definition of Services Authorized Under This CUA: Motorized boating activities consist of providing on-demand water transportation services via a motorized vessel within the boundaries of the national lakeshore. A motorized tour is defined as maintaining a required continuous presence with clients during the course of the trip. A water taxi is defined as a drop-off and pick-up service to locations in the park, with pre-determined arrival and departure times.
Services performed under this CUA are limited to six (6) passengers per trip.
Motorized tours are prohibited from occurring concurrently to destinations when occupied by contracted Concessions Boat Tours.
When providing motorboat tours, the Holder, or registered employees of the business, will maintain a continuous presence with clients from the time of departure at the launch ramp/dock/marina until the moment of return to the launch ramp/dock/marina.
When providing Water Taxi Service, the Holder, or registered employees of the business, will maintain a continuous presence with clients during boat transportation to and from island locations. Water Taxi Service involves only the transportation of clients from a launch ramp/dock/marina to an island, and return.
Safety: Prior to departure of Water Taxi Service from mainland, the Holder, or registered employees, will ensure that clients possess a valid map, compass/GPS, food, water, clothing, radio/cell phone, valid camping permits, and written instructions that clearly explain pick-up procedures including date, time, primary and alternate locations.
Boating Regulations
Motorized vessels used to provide or support these services will be inspected, equipped, and licensed in accordance with U.S. Coast Guard requirements and applicable federal and state laws and regulations. Vessels will display current state registration or possess a U.S. Coast Guard Declaration.
The use of motorized vessels will be conducted in accordance with applicable U.S. Coast Guard (USCG) requirements, including operation, vessel capacity, safety equipment, and rules of the road. A minimum of a Charter Boat Captain’s License (6-pack) is required to transport clients.
Motorboat services will adhere to Uninspected Charter Regulations for vessels less than 100 gross tons as issued by the U.S. Coast Guard. All vessels registered under this CUA are subject to boarding and inspection at any time within the lakeshore.
All vessels used to provide this service will be equipped with a marine band radio and cellular phone.
All vessels and operators will comply with all Wisconsin boating laws and 36 CFR regulations for parks, forests, and public property. USCG-approved PFDs must be used in accordance with Wisconsin state boating laws.
Trailering and Launching
When trailering a vessel into the lakeshore, the tow vehicle and associated trailer will be mechanically sound, of sufficient size and horsepower, and commensurate to the size of the vessel being towed (or as required by state law). Total length of vehicle plus trailer must not exceed 45 feet when parking and launching at Little Sand Bay. The trailer will be properly connected to the tow vehicle at all times.
Motor vehicles used to provide this service will be street legal and have current insurance, registration, license, inspection, and required equipment, and will be properly permitted in accordance with state law. The license will be properly affixed and displayed as required by state law.
The launching of any powered or non-powered watercraft, or any other gear or equipment that has not been decontaminated prior to launch into NPS-administered waters within the National Lakeshore is prohibited. Decontamination is defined as cleaning and drying the watercraft and all associated gear and equipment so they are free of vegetation, animals, mud, and organic material, including bilges, live wells, and other compartments.
Licenses: The Holder and guide(s) registered under this Permit are required to possess the following:
A current boat/vessel captain’s (six-pack) license or master’s certificate issued by the U.S. Coast Guard.
The Holder must provide current copies of U.S. Coast Guard license(s) for all employees registered under this Permit to the Apostle Islands Commercial Services Manager for filing as part of the Permit.
When providing vehicle transportation for visitors or clients within the boundaries of the lakeshore, the Holder will ensure all employees performing services as drivers possess a valid driver’s license. Copies of the Holder’s and/or staff driver’s licenses must be submitted to the Apostle Islands National Lakeshore Commercial Services Manager upon request.
Recreational Equipment: The use of non-motorized vessels (sit-on-top kayaks and stand-up paddleboards) during motorized boat tours is permitted under the following conditions:
Clients are required to wear a USCG-approved PFD at all times while using recreational equipment.
Recreational equipment must remain within rescue distance of clients using the equipment (i.e., within reachable distance to utilize a throwable Type IV PFD).
Recreational equipment is prohibited from launching in the Meyers Beach Front Country Zone and Mainland Sea Caves.
Recreational equipment is prohibited from use during a small craft advisory.
The Holder and their employees, which may include guides, leaders, instructors, operators and volunteers, registered under this Commercial Use Authorization (CUA) will exercise this privilege subject to all of the following conditions:
Definition of Services Authorized Under This CUA: Guided Kayak Tours consist of guiding clients to destinations within the boundaries of the national lakeshore by kayak on the waters of Lake Superior, and always maintaining a required continuous presence with the clients as specified below.
The Holder or registered employee(s) will maintain the required continuous presence with the clients for the entire duration of the scheduled trip. If clients self-transport, the Holder or registered employee(s) will maintain the required continuous presence from the moment of first contact within the lakeshore until the clients complete their trip.
Guiding day use tours on water for clients to destinations within the national lakeshore, by means of a seaworthy, non-motorized kayak of sufficient size with functional (non-leaking) bulkheads or proper bow & stern floatation bags if there are no bulkheads to adequately and safely move the client on water while carrying the required safety equipment and activity-associated gear and supplies.
Employee and Passenger Safety: All commercial operators are responsible for the safety of their employees and customers while recreating in Apostle Islands National Lakeshore.
Launching of kayaks from the beaches at Little Sand Bay and Meyers Beach is prohibited while those areas are under a small craft advisory or gale warning as forecast by the National Weather Service (https://www.weather.gov/greatlakes). A Small Craft Advisory (SCA) is issued by the National Weather Service when sustained winds or frequent gusts are between 22 and 33 knots (25 and 38 mph) inclusive, and/or waves are greater than 4 feet. A Gale Warning is issued when sustained surface winds, or frequent gusts, in the range of 34 knots (39 mph) to 47 knots (54 mph) inclusive, are predicted or occurring. *Note: In cases of a forecasted SCA but calm on-site conditions, the company’s Senior Lead Guide may consult with the Holder and determine if kayaking in the aforementioned conditions are low-risk. Reference Attachment: Small Craft Advisory (SCA): Pre-trip Conditions Assessment.
It is the responsibility of the CUA permit holder to be aware of small craft advisories at both Little Sand Bay and Meyers Beach and to not launch trips from those locations while small craft advisories are in effect. It is also the responsibility of the CUA holder to recognize that emergency assistance from the NPS may be delayed or not possible during small craft advisories and gale warnings for all locations within the park.
In-park kayak launching is only permitted at Meyers Beach and Little Sand Bay. Lead guide must provide requested trip information to the park ranger or PSAR volunteer when requested. Follow directions from park staff.
Holder must ensure that all clients on Guided Kayak Tours are able to understand basic instructions, can sit upright in a kayak, and can remove spray skirt from kayak in event of capsize.
Authorized Hours of Operation: The Holder and their employees registered under this CUA will not provide any Guided Kayak Tours between sunset and sunrise and will ensure that all guides and clients will be physically off the waters of Lake Superior by sunset. EXCEPTION: From June 15 through Labor Day, each CUA Holder may conduct guided sunset kayak tours from Meyers Beach under the following conditions:
Holder checks the marine forecast and determines that paddling conditions are suitable for a sunset tour.
Tour group size is limited to 12 clients and 2 guides. Two guides are required for every sunset tour, regardless of the number of clients. An additional guide may be added if Holder determines it is appropriate due to client experience level or ability.
Each kayak is equipped with a solid white light that can be turned on/off if needed.
In addition to all regularly required safety equipment, each guide is equipped with a sound-emitting device and a high quality, waterproof headlamp.
All guides and visitors/clients must be physically off the waters of Lake Superior within 30 minutes after official sunset.
Website: Holder must maintain a functioning website with information about their guided kayak tour services. The website must include rates for tours offered, the legal business name as shown on the CUA, a valid physical address for the business, and a working telephone number and email address.
Trip confirmation: Any trip confirmations that are electronically transmitted to the client must include the legal business name as shown on the CUA, and a working telephone number and email address.
Group Size Limitations (Day Use): The Holder and their employees and clients are authorized for day use activities with group size up to 60 total people at one time in Front country Zones (Meyers Beach and its parking lot and Little Sand Bay public developed areas) and the waters immediately offshore of them (Re: 2011 APIS GMP/WMP). At Meyers Beach, the Front country Zone does not extend to the mainland sea caves.
Each tour group size is limited to 21 individuals (including guides) in Backcountry areas (as defined in the preferred alternative in the GMP) with at least one guide for every six clients.
Under special circumstances (such as a class trip), Holder may request written permission, at least 48 hours in advance, from the Commercial Services Manager to increase group size but these instances should be infrequent. Special conditions may apply.)
Required Equipment:
Each kayak in the Holder's party shall be equipped with the following, in proper working order:
Kayak paddle(s)
Spray skirt(s)
Bilge pump or bailing device
Paddle float
All guides and clients are required to wear a properly fitted U.S. Coast Guard (USCG) approved PFD at all times during on-water activities of a Guided Kayak Tour.
Each traveling group shall have one marine radio, a cell phone, a group first aid kit, one flare kit, one safety throw rope, and one spare paddle for every three kayaks in the group.
Wet suits are required (to be on hand) for all overnight trips and required to be worn any time the combined air and water temperatures equal less than 120 degrees Fahrenheit.
Guide Certification: When submitting the Employee-Guide List [Attachment E-2], Holder must identify guides as one of the four classifications listed below. Criteria for each classification is detailed in Attachment E-2.
Apprentice Guide
Assistant Guide
Lead Guide: Must possess ACA Level 3: Trip Leader or Instructor training or higher.
Senior Lead Guide/Instructor: Holder must identify at least one person as Senior Lead Guide/Instructor. That person must possess an ACA Level 4 Instructor certification (or equivalent) OR ACA Level 3 Instructor Trainer certification (or equivalent). Each Senior Lead Guide/Instructor must present their original certifications to the Commercial Services Manager before the beginning of the operating season each year. The Senior Lead Guide/Instructor will be responsible for assessing and verifying the skills of Apprentice Guides, Assistant Guides, and Lead Guides.
Safety Briefing: Prior to each tour, the guide will provide a safety briefing for clients. At a minimum, the safety briefing must include:
Basic paddling instruction
How to exit the vessel in event of capsize
Group paddling parameters
Emergency procedures
Use of equipment (how to adjust seat, use foot pedals, operation of rudder, must wear PFD)
Basic understanding of kayak stability and how to maximize it.
Expected paddling conditions, weather briefing, and approximate route and time frame for the tour.
Trailering and Launching:
When trailering a vessel into the lakeshore, the tow vehicle, and associated trailer, will be mechanically sound, of sufficient size, horsepower, and commensurate to the size of the vessel being towed (or as required by state law). Total length of vehicle plus trailer must not exceed 45 feet when parking and launching at Little Sand Bay. The trailer will be properly connected to the tow vehicle at all times.
Motor vehicles used to provide this service will be street legal and have current insurance, registration, license, inspection, and equipment, and will be properly permitted in accordance with state law. The license will be properly affixed and displayed as required by state law.
The launching of any powered or non-powered watercraft, or any other gear or equipment that has not been decontaminated prior to launch into NPS administered waters within the National Lakeshore is prohibited. “Decontamination” is defined as cleaning and drying the watercraft and/or all associated gear and equipment so that they are dry and free of any vegetation, animals and mud and that the bilges, live wells and other compartments are also clean, dry and free of all organic material.
Permits and/or Licenses: Holder is required to possess the following:
When providing vehicle transportation for visitors/clients within the boundaries of the lakeshore, the Holder will ensure all employees under this CUA performing services as drivers are currently qualified to perform the service, possess a valid driver’s license, and that a copy of the valid driver’s license is on file with the Apostle Islands NL Commercial Services office. A Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) is required for operation of motor vehicles that have the capacity to carry 16 or more passengers including the driver.
Use of Area: The Holder will not use or be assigned any facilities or portions thereof, located within the national lakeshore, except as allowed to the general public. For example, a picnic table in a day use area that is intended for recreational use by visitors may not be converted to use as office space for the CUA Holder. This CUA does not authorize priority use of park areas. The Holder is prohibited from blocking access or impeding the flow of traffic along any roads, trails, walkways, greenways, parking lots, stairwell access, beaches, and/or waterways of any NPS facilities. Once safety briefing is complete and the tour is underway, any surplus equipment/supplies (wet suits, PFDs, etc.) must be properly stored in/on the Holder’s vehicle or trailer or transported out of the park. It is acceptable for kayaks to be staged on the beach at Meyers Beach and Little Sand Bay, but they must be removed from the park’s lakeshore boundary at the end of each day.
Congestion: CUA Holders are expected to work cooperatively and professionally to (1) stagger launch times to avoid congestion at the Meyers Beach sea caves and (2) stage kayaks on beach to minimize any negative impacts to beachgoers. CUA Holders must strictly adhere to kayak loading/unloading time limits at both Meyers Beach and Little Sand Bay launches.
Overnight Stay (Camping): The Holder and their employees registered under this CUA will not stay overnight within the boundaries of the national lakeshore while engaged in the commercial activities unless the Holder is specifically authorized (by CUA) to conduct guided backcountry camping and is in possession of a valid backcountry camping permit. The Holder, registered employees, and their clients must comply with all camping rules as provided with the camping permit. The Senior Lead Guide for any overnight trip must possess valid Wilderness First Aid certificate (or an equivalent approved by the Commercial Services Manager). Permanent or seasonal base camps are not authorized.
Reporting Requirements: In addition to the annual CUA report that is required of all CUA Holders, the Guided Kayak Tours CUA has additional reporting requirements. If the CUA Holder guides ten (10) or fewer trips per season, they must file a Trip Itinerary (Attachment I) at least 24 hours in advance of each trip launch. If the CUA Holder guides more than ten (10) trips per season, they are NOT required to file a Trip Itinerary but must submit a monthly visitor use report that includes number of trips, number of clients, launch point, and number of day trips vs. overnight trips.
Management Fees: Annual management fees must be paid in full to the Park by January 15 of the following year.
The Holder and their employees registered under this Commercial Use Authorization (CUA) will exercise this privilege subject to all of the following conditions:
Definition of Services Authorized Under This CUA: Guided kayak tours with motorized support vessel consist of guiding clients to destinations within the boundaries of the national lakeshore by kayak on the waters of Lake Superior, and always maintaining a required continuous presence with the clients as specified below.
The Holder or registered employee(s) will maintain the required continuous presence with the clients for the entire duration of the scheduled trip.
Guiding day use tours on water for clients to destinations within the national lakeshore, by means of a seaworthy, non-motorized kayak. Kayaks must be of sufficient size with functional (non-leaking) bulkheads or proper bow and stern floatation bags if there are no bulkheads to adequately and safely move the client on water while carrying the required safety equipment and activity-associated gear and supplies.
Clients and kayaks will be transported to the paddling site and launched via a motorized vessel. Paddling excursions will take place in front country zones, excluding the Meyers Beach and Mainland Sea Cave Area.
Employee and Passenger Safety: All commercial operators are responsible for the safety of their employees and customers while recreating in Apostle Islands National Lakeshore.
Launching of non-motorized vessels is prohibited while those areas are under a small craft advisory or gale warning as forecast by the National Weather Service. http://marine.weather.gov/.
A Small Craft Advisory is issued by the National Weather Service when sustained winds or frequent gusts are between 22 and 33 knots (25 and 38 mph) inclusive, and/or waves are greater than 4 feet. A Gale Warning is issued when sustained surface winds, or frequent gusts, in the range of 34 knots (39 mph) to 47 knots (54 mph) inclusive, are predicted or occurring.
It is the responsibility of the CUA holder to be aware of small craft advisories and not launch trips from those locations while small craft advisories are in effect. It is also the responsibility of the CUA holder to recognize that emergency assistance from the NPS may be delayed or not possible during small craft advisories and gale warnings, for all locations within the park. CUA holders are responsible for reasonably ensuring the safety of their clients at all times.
Holder must ensure that all clients on Guided Kayak Tours are able to understand basic instructions, can sit upright in a kayak, and can remove spray skirt from kayak in event of capsize.
Authorized Hours of Operation: The Holder and their employees registered under this CUA will not provide any Guided Kayak Tours between sunset and sunrise and will ensure that all guides and clients will be physically off the waters of Lake Superior by sunset.
Website: Holder must maintain a functioning website with information about their guided kayak tour services. The website must include rates for tours offered, the legal business name as shown on the CUA, a valid physical address for the business, and a working telephone number and email address.
Trip Confirmations: Any trip confirmations that are electronically transmitted to the client must include the legal business name as shown on the CUA, and a working telephone number and email address.
Group Size Limitations: The Holder and their employees and clients are authorized for day use activities with group size up to 60 total people (including guides) at one time in Front country Zones, excluding the Meyers Beach and Mainland Sea Cave area.
Each tour group size is limited to at least one guide for every six vessels.
If entering any Backcountry Zones the group size is limited to 21 individuals (including guides).
Required Equipment:
Each kayak in the Holder's party shall be equipped with the following:
Kayak paddle(s)
Spray skirt(s)
Bilge pump or bailing device
Paddle Float
All guides and clients are required to wear a properly fitted U.S. Coast Guard (USCG) approved PFD at all times during on-water activities of a Guided Kayak Tour.
Each traveling group shall have one marine radio, a cell phone, a group first aid kit, one flare kit, one safety throw rope, and one spare paddle for every three kayaks in the group.
Wet suits are required to be worn any time the combined air and water temperatures equal less than 120 degrees Fahrenheit.
Guide Certifications: When submitting the Employee-Guide List [Attachment E-2], Holder must identify guides as one of the four classifications listed below. Criteria for each classification is detailed in Attachment E-2.
Apprentice Guide
Assistant Guide
Lead Guide: Must posses ACA Level 3: Trip Leader or Instructor training or higher.
Senior Lead Guide/Instructor: Holder must identify at least one person as Senior Lead Guide/Instructor. That person must possess an ACA Level 4 Instructor certification (or equivalent) OR ACA Level 3 Instructor Trainer certification (or equivalent). Each Senior Lead Guide/Instructor must present their original certifications to the Commercial Services Manager before the beginning of the operating season each year. The Senior Lead Guide/Instructor will be responsible for assessing and verifying the skills of Apprentice Guides, Assistant Guides, and Lead Guides.
Safety Briefing: Prior to each tour, the guide will provide a safety briefing for clients. At a minimum, the safety briefing must include:
Basic paddling instruction
How to exit the vessel in event of capsize
Group paddling parameters
Emergency procedures
Use of equipment (how to adjust seat, use foot pedals, operation of rudder, must wear PFD)
Basic understanding of kayak stability and how to maximize it.
Expected paddling conditions, weather briefing, and approximate route and time frame for the tour
Boating Regulations: Motorized vessels used to provide or support these services will be inspected, equipped and licensed in accordance with U.S. Coast Guard requirements and applicable federal and state laws and regulations. Vessels will display current state registration or possess a U.S. Coast Guard Declaration.
The use of motorized vessels will be conducted in accordance with applicable U.S. Coast Guard (USCG) requirements, including, but not limited to operation, vessel capacity, safety equipment, and rules of the road. A minimum of a Charterboat Captain’s License (6-pack) is required in order to transport clients.
Motorboat services will adhere to Uninspected Charter Regulations for vessels less than 100 gross tons as issued by U.S. Coast Guard. All vessels registered under this CUA are subject to boarding and inspection at any time within the lakeshore.
All vessels used to provide this service will be equipped with a marine band radio and cellular phone.
All vessels and operators will comply with all Wisconsin boating laws and 36CFR Parks, Forest, and Public property. USCG approved PFD’s must be used in accordance with WI state boating laws.
When trailering a vessel into the lakeshore, the tow vehicle, and associated trailer, will be mechanically sound, of sufficient size, horsepower, and commensurate to the size of the vessel being towed (or as required by state law). Total length of vehicle plus trailer must not exceed 45 feet when parking and launching at Little Sand Bay. The trailer will be properly connected to the tow vehicle at all times.
Motor vehicles used to provide this service will be street legal and have current insurance, registration, license, inspection, and equipment, and will be properly permitted in accordance with state law. The license will be properly affixed and displayed as required by state law.
The launching of any powered or non-powered watercraft, or any other gear or equipment that has not been decontaminated prior to launch into NPS administered waters within the National Lakeshore is prohibited. “Decontamination” is defined as cleaning and drying the watercraft and/or all associated gear and equipment so that they are dry and free of any vegetation, animals and mud and that the bilges, live wells and other compartments are also clean, dry and free of all organic material.
LICENSES: The Holder and guide(s) registered under this Permit are required to possess the following:
The Holder must provide current copies of the U.S. Coast Guard License(s) for all employees registered under this Permit to the Apostle Islands Commercial Services manager for filing as part of the Permit.
When providing vehicle transportation for visitors/clients within the boundaries of the lakeshore, the Holder will ensure all employees under this Permit performing services as drivers are currently qualified to perform the service and possess, if required, a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) as required by Wisconsin Department of Transportation regulations. A CDL is required for operation of motor vehicles that have the capacity to carry 16 or more passengers including the driver. The Holder must ensure that current copies of the Commercial Driver’s License are always on file in the Apostle Islands NL Commercial Services Manager.
Permits and/or Licenses: Holder is required to possess the following:
When providing vehicle transportation for visitors/clients within the boundaries of the lakeshore, the Holder will ensure all employees under this CUA performing services as drivers are currently qualified to perform the service, possess a valid driver’s license, and that a copy of the valid driver’s license is on file with the Apostle Islands NL Commercial Services office. A Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) is required for operation of motor vehicles that have the capacity to carry 16 or more passengers including the driver.
Use of Area: The Holder will not use or portions thereof, located within the national lakeshore, except as allowed to the general public. For example, a picnic table in a day use area that is intended for recreational use by visitors may not be converted to use as office space for the CUA Holder. This CUA does not authorize priority use of park areas. The Holder is prohibited from blocking access or impeding the flow of traffic along any roads, trails, walkways, greenways, parking lots, stairwell access, beaches, and/or waterways of any NPS facilities.
Congestion: CUA Holders are expected to work cooperatively and professionally to stagger launch times to avoid congestion at paddle destinations.
Overnight Stay (Camping): The Holder and their employees registered under this CUA will not stay overnight within the boundaries of the national lakeshore while engaged in the commercial activities.
Reporting Requirements: In addition to the annual CUA report that is required of all CUA Holders, the Guided Kayak Tours CUA has additional reporting requirements. If the CUA Holder guides ten (10) or fewer trips per season, they must file a Trip Itinerary (Attachment I) at least 24 hours in advance of each trip launch.
Management Fees: Annual management fees must be paid in full to the Park by January 15 of the following year.
These specific CUA Conditions apply solely to guided tours conducted via a Montreal Canoe measuring no less than 34 feet in length. The Holder and their employees registered under this Commercial Use Authorization (CUA) will exercise this privilege subject to all the following conditions.
Definition of Services Authorized Under This CUA: Guided Montreal Canoe Tours consist of guiding clients to destinations within the boundaries of the national lakeshore in a Montreal Canoe on the waters of Lake Superior. The CUA holder, or registered employee(s) will maintain a required continuous presence at all times with the clients as specified below.
The Holder or registered employee(s) will maintain the required continuous presence with the clients for the entire duration of the scheduled trip. If clients self-transport, the Holder or registered employee(s) will maintain the required continuous presence from the moment of first contact within the lakeshore until the clients complete their trip.
Guiding day use or overnight tours on water for clients to destinations within the national lakeshore, by means of a seaworthy, non-motorized Montreal Canoe of sufficient size to adequately and safely move the client on water while carrying the required safety equipment and activity-associated gear and supplies.
Employee and Passenger Safety: All commercial operators are responsible for the safety of their employees and customers while recreating in Apostle Islands National Lakeshore.
Launching of any Montreal canoes from the beaches at Little Sand Bay or Meyers Beach is prohibited while those areas are under a small craft advisory or gale warning as forecast by the National Weather Service: http://marine.weather.gov.
A Small Craft Advisory is issued by the National Weather Service when sustained winds or frequent gusts are between 22 and 33 knots (25 and 38 mph) inclusive, and/or waves are greater than 4 feet. A Gale Warning is issued when sustained surface winds, or frequent gusts, in the range of 34 knots (39 mph) to 47 knots (54 mph) inclusive, are predicted or occurring.
It is the responsibility of the CUA holder to be aware of small craft advisories and not launch trips from those locations while small craft advisories are in effect. It is also the responsibility of the CUA holder to recognize that emergency assistance from the NPS may be delayed or not possible during small craft advisories and gale warnings for all locations within the park. CUA holders are responsible for always ensuring the safety of their clients. CUA permits may be suspended or revoked for operators choosing to operate in unsafe conditions.
Each tour group size is limited to 16 individuals (including guides) per canoe with a maximum of two canoes per trip. There will be at least one guide for every seven clients. Under special circumstances (such as a class trip), Holder may request written permission from the Commercial Services Manager to increase group size but these instances should be infrequent. Special conditions may apply.
In-park Montreal Canoe launching is permitted only at Little Sand Bay. Whenever a park ranger is present and visible at the launch area, the lead guide must check in with the park ranger before proceeding to the beach and provide requested trip information to the park ranger.
The permit holder must ensure that all clients on Guided Montreal Canoe Tours are able to understand basic instructions and can sit upright in a Montreal Canoe.
Authorized Hours of Operation: The Holder and their employees registered under this CUA will not provide any guided Montreal Canoe Tours between sunset and sunrise and will ensure that all guides and clients will be physically off the waters of Lake Superior by sunset. All guides and visitors/clients must be physically off the waters of Lake Superior within 30 minutes after official sunset.
Website: Holder must maintain a functioning website with information about their guided Montreal Canoe tour services. The website must include rates for tours offered, the legal business name as shown on the CUA, a valid physical address for the business, and a working telephone number and email address.
Trip Confirmations: Any trip confirmations that are electronically transmitted to the client must include the legal business name as shown on the CUA, and a working telephone number and email address.
Day Use Group Size Limitations: The Holder and their employees and clients are authorized for day use activities with group size up to 28 total people (16 per canoe) at one time.
Required Equipment:
Each Montreal Canoe in the Holder's party shall be equipped with the following:
Canoe paddles
Adequate waterproof bags
Bilge pump or bailing device
All guides and clients are required to wear a properly fitted U.S. Coast Guard (USCG) approved PFD at all times during on-water activities of a Guided Montreal Canoe Tour.
Each traveling group shall have one marine radio, a cell phone, a group first aid kit, one safety throw rope, a flare (illuminated or projectile), and one spare paddle for every Montreal Canoe in the group.
Wet suits are required (to be on hand) for all overnight trips and required to be worn any time the combined air and water temperatures equal less than 120 degrees Fahrenheit.
Canoe Guide Certifications: When submitting the Employee-Guide List [Attachment E-3], Holder must identify guides as one of the two classifications listed below. Criteria for each classification is detailed in Attachment E-3.
Assistant Guide: Must be at least 18 years old and have current First Aid and CPR training. The Assistant Guide must have experience in the outdoors and solid canoeing skills. Assistant Guides possess an intermediate level of knowledge of the natural history of the area and paddling experience on Lake Superior or comparable body of water. They must have prior experience leading groups of various ages and abilities and prior teaching experience. The Assistant Guide must have considerable personal and professional outdoor experience, demonstrated experience with risk management, group management, and complicated decision making. The Assistant Guide must be accompanied by a Lead Guide/Instructor; they cannot lead trips by themselves.
Lead Guide: Must be at least 18 years old and have current Wilderness First Aid and CPR certifications. The Lead Guide must have at least one year’s demonstrated experience in the following: leading Montreal Canoe tours on Lake Superior, extensive paddling, physical skill teaching, demonstrated decision making, risk management, outdoor group management and leadership experience.
Lead Guide/Instructor: Holder must identify at least one person as Lead Guide/Instructor. Each Lead Guide/Instructor meets all Lead Guide requirements with an additional two years (a total of three or more years) experience guiding Montreal Canoe Tours on Lake Superior. The Lead Guide/Instructor will be responsible for assessing and verifying the skills of Assistant and Lead Guides.
Safety Briefing: Prior to each tour, the guide will provide a safety briefing for clients. At a minimum, the safety briefing must include:
Basic paddling instruction
How to exit the vessel in event of capsize
Group paddling parameters
Emergency procedures
Use of equipment to include wearing the PFD
Basic understanding of Montreal Canoe stability and how to maximize it.
Expected paddling conditions, weather briefing, and approximate route and time frame for the tour.
Motorized Support Vessels:
Motorized support vessels are authorized and, for safety reasons, can be used to transport visitors/clients.
Vessels used to provide or support this service will be inspected, equipped, and licensed in accordance with U.S. Coast Guard requirements, applicable federal and state laws and regulations. Vessels will display current state registration or possess a U.S. Coast Guard Declaration.
The use of motorized vessels will be conducted in accordance with applicable U.S. Coast Guard (USCG) requirements including, but not limited to, operation, vessel capacity, safety equipment, and rules of the road. A minimum of a captains (six pack) license is required in order to transport clients/visitors.
Motorized vessels will adhere to Uninspected Charter Regulations (Six Packs) for vessels less than 100 gross tons as issued by U.S. Coast Guard. The vessel is subject to boarding and inspection at any time within the lakeshore.
Vehicles/Trailers:
When towing Montreal Canoe trailers and/or the support vessel, the motorized tow vehicle will be mechanically sound, of sufficient size, horsepower, and brake horsepower, commensurate to the size of the trailer with boat/vessels being towed (or as required by state law) to adequately and safely complete the tow from its place of storage outside the national lakeshore, to designated public launch ramps and return.
Motor vehicles used to provide this service will be street legal and have current insurance, registration, license, inspection, equipment, and will be properly permitted in accordance with state law. The license will be properly affixed and displayed as required by state law. All motor vehicles used to transport Montreal Canoes and/or clients in the park must be registered and insured in the name of the CUA Holder/business entity to whom this CUA is issued.
Trailers used to transport Montreal Canoes and the support vessel will be in sound mechanical condition, appropriately sized, and configured for the type of vessel being towed, with all lights and equipment in good working order. The trailer will be properly connected to the tow vehicle at all times.
Permits and/or Licenses: Holder is required to possess the following:
For operators of motorized support vessels, the Holder must provide current copies of the U.S. Coast Guard License(s) to the Apostle Islands Commercial Services manager for filing as part of the CUA application.
When providing vehicle transportation for visitors/clients within the boundaries of the lakeshore, the Holder will ensure all employees under this CUA performing services as drivers are currently qualified to perform the service, possess a valid driver’s license, and that a copy of the valid driver’s license is on file with the Apostle Islands NL Commercial Services office. A Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) is required for operation of motor vehicles that have the capacity to carry 16 or more passengers including the driver.
Use of Area: The Holder will not use or be assigned any facilities or portions thereof, located within the national lakeshore, except as allowed to the general public. For example, a picnic table in a day use area that is intended for recreational use by visitors may not be converted to use as office space for the CUA Holder. This CUA does not authorize priority use of park areas. The Holder is prohibited from blocking access or impeding the flow of traffic along any roads, trails, walkways, greenways, parking lots, stairwell access, beaches, and/or waterways of any NPS facilities. Once safety briefing is complete and the tour is underway, any surplus equipment/supplies (wet suits, PFDs, etc.) must be properly stored in/on the Holder’s vehicle or trailer or transported out of the park. It is acceptable for Montreal Canoes to be staged on the beach at Little Sand Bay, but they must be removed from the park at the end of each day.
Congestion: CUA Holders are expected to work cooperatively and professionally to (1) stagger launch times to avoid congestion in the parking lots and (2) stage Montreal Canoes on beach to minimize any negative impacts to beachgoers.
Overnight Stay (Camping): The Holder and their employees registered under this CUA will not stay overnight within the boundaries of the national lakeshore while engaged in the commercial activities unless the Holder is specifically authorized (by a CUA) to conduct guided backcountry camping and is in possession of a valid backcountry camping permit. The Holder, registered employees, and their clients must comply with all camping rules as provided with the camping permit. The Lead Guide for any overnight trip must possess valid Wilderness First Aid certification. Permanent or seasonal base camps are not authorized.
Reporting Requirements: In addition to the annual CUA report that is required of all CUA Holders, the Guided Montreal Canoe Tours CUA has additional reporting requirements. If the CUA Holder guides ten (10) or fewer trips per season, they must file a Trip Itinerary at least 24 hours in advance of each trip launch. If the CUA Holder guides more than ten (10) trips per season, they are NOT required to file a Trip Itinerary The Commercial Services Manager will provide a form for this reporting.
The Holder and their employees, which may include guides, leaders, instructors, operators and volunteers, registered under this Commercial Use Authorization (CUA) will exercise this privilege subject to all of the following conditions:
Definition of Services Authorized Under This CUA: Backcountry activities consist of providing guided camping within the boundaries of the national lakeshore and maintaining a required continuous presence at all times as specified below.
The Holder, or registered employee(s) will maintain the required continuous presence with clients for the entire duration of the scheduled trip.
Transportation of clients to the islands must be conducted by either a CUA Holder authorized for Boat Tours (motorized or non-motorized) or the park cruise service concessioner.
Overnight Stay (Camping): The Holder and their employees registered under this Permit are authorized for overnight stays at campsites only when in possession of a valid backcountry camping permit. The Holder, registered employees, and their clients must comply with all conditions set forth in a valid backcountry camping permit. The Lead Guide (as defined in the E-2 and E-3 forms for Boat Tours – non-motorized) for any overnight trip must possess a valid Wilderness First Aid certificate (or an equivalent approved by the Apostle Islands NL Commercial Services Manager). Permanent or seasonal base camps are not authorized.
Group Size: A backcountry camping group may not exceed a total group size of 21 persons, including the number of guides. This includes campsites, beaches, and hiking trails in the backcountry.
The Holder and their employees, which may include guides, leaders, instructors, operators and volunteers, registered under this Commercial Use Authorization (CUA) will exercise this privilege subject to all of the following conditions:
Definition of Services Authorized Under This CUA: Fishing Charter activities consist of providing on-demand, off-shore fishing services via a motorized vessel within the boundaries of the national lakeshore.
Services performed under this CUA are limited to six (6) passengers per trip.
When providing fishing charter service, the Holder, or registered employees of the business, will maintain a continuous presence with clients from the time of departure at the launch ramp/dock/marina until the moment of return to the launch ramp/dock/marina.
Boating Regulations:
Motorized vessels will be inspected, equipped and licensed in accordance with U.S. Coast Guard requirements and applicable federal and state laws and regulations. Vessels will display current state registration or possess a U.S. Coast Guard Declaration.
The use of motorized vessels will be conducted in accordance with applicable U.S. Coast Guard (USCG) requirements, including, but not limited to operation, vessel capacity, safety equipment, and rules of the road. A minimum of a Charter boat Captain’s License (6-pack) is required in order to transport clients.
Motorboat services will adhere to Uninspected Charter Regulations for vessels less than 100 gross tons as issued by U.S. Coast Guard. All vessels registered under this CUA are subject to boarding and inspection at any time within the lakeshore.
All vessels used to provide this service will be equipped with a marine band radio and cellular phone.
All vessels and operators will comply with all Wisconsin boating laws and 36CFR Parks, Forest, and Public property. USCG approved PFD’s must be used in accordance with WI state boating laws.
Trailering and Launching:
When trailering a vessel into the lakeshore, the tow vehicle, and associated trailer, will be mechanically sound, of sufficient size, horsepower, and commensurate to the size of the vessel being towed (or as required by state law). Total length of vehicle plus trailer must not exceed 45 feet when parking and launching at Little Sand Bay. The trailer will be properly connected to the tow vehicle at all times.
Motor vehicles used to provide this service will be street legal and have current insurance, registration, license, inspection, and equipment, and will be properly permitted in accordance with state law. The license will be properly affixed and displayed as required by state law.
The launching of any powered or non-powered watercraft, or any other gear or equipment that has not been decontaminated prior to launch into NPS administered waters within the National Lakeshore is prohibited. “Decontamination” is defined as cleaning and drying the watercraft and/or all associated gear and equipment so that they are dry and free of any vegetation, animals and mud and that the bilges, live wells and other compartments are also clean, dry and free of all organic material.
Licenses: The Holder and guide(s) registered under this Permit are required to possess the following:
The State of Wisconsin requires a guide license for anyone who guides, directs, or assists other people in fishing in Wisconsin for compensation. The Holder, and any registered employees, conducting Fishing Charters under the terms of this CUA must provide a copy of a valid guide license issued by the State of Wisconsin.
A current boat/vessel captains (six pack) license or masters certificate issued by the U.S. Coast Guard.
The Holder must provide current copies of the U.S. Coast Guard License(s) for all employees registered under this Permit to the Apostle Islands Commercial Services manager for filing as part of the Permit.
When providing vehicle transportation for visitors/clients within the boundaries of the lakeshore, the Holder will ensure all employees under this Permit performing services as a driver possess a valid driver’s license to perform the service. Copies of the Holder’s and/or staff driver’s licenses must be submitted to the Apostle Islands NL Commercial Services Manager upon request.
