ST. IGNACE, Mich. (Michigan News Source) – The Great Lakes are at the heart of Michigan, and this summer you can experience them up close.

The Inland Seas Education Association is gearing up for its sailing season, offering hands-on trips where people can help raise sails, steer a schooner, and test water quality.

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The program, launched in 1989 to spark curiosity about the lakes, kicks off school ship trips on May 5th. Roughly 70 trips are planned. Public sails are open to all ages and start June 16th.