There is something special about that season's first launch. The anticipation as you back your trailer down the ramp, excitement when your boat touches Lake Michigan for the first time in months, and then absolute joy when you pull away from the dock and a whole season lies ahead.
Boaters launching at Simmons Island Marina this spring will be in for a treat. For years, this quiet and sheltered marina operated by Great Lakes Yacht Sales has been helping powerboat enthusiasts to put the hammer down on their Lake Michigan adventures. And we're here to ensure that your 2026 launch day is as stress-free as it can be.
Why Simmons Island Marina?
Simmons Island Marina, situated in a beautiful park setting adjacent to Kenosha's historic downtown district, is the perfect place to kick-start your boating season. Our combination of 142 boat slips and 5 launch ramps has earned us a traditional reputation for personalized, professional, and reliable service in a clean maritime facility.
At our facility, we cater to both experienced boaters and those new to boating! As soon as you arrive, it will have everything to get you started on your way and maximize your time on the water.
Planning Your Launch Day
Preparations are essential for a smooth launch. Be sure to complete your pre-season inspection and maintenance before heading out to Simmons Island. Your boat should be clean, systems tested and safety equipment confirmed and ready to go.
Monitor launch day weather conditions. And though we all want conditions to be just right, it's a good idea to keep an alternative date in your back pocket. The waters of Lake Michigan can be unpredictable, launching in calm conditions makes everything easier, especially if this is your first launch of the season.
What to Look Forward To at Our Launch Ramps
Open from 8 to 5, with 5 ramps, you won't have to wait in line like other marinas. We take pride in having well-maintained ramps that keep the launch process simple. The floating docks make boarding once your boat is in the water very convenient.
Come with your boat prepared to put it in the water. That means taking off the cover, loading all your stuff, and doing your final checks before you get to the ramp. Other boaters will think better of you, and you'll feel more comfortable knowing all is well.
Don't forget the drain plug. Seriously, we cannot emphasize this enough. It happens to seasoned boaters more often than you might think, and it is the sort of mistake that can turn an exciting launch day into a maddening one.
Taking Advantage of On-Site Amenities
The best part about Simmons Island Marina is we thought of everything. Need to top off your fuel? We've got you covered. Want to take a quick shower after a day spent on the water? All our clean facilities with private restrooms are open.
That way you can park your truck and trailer in our secured parking lots while you head out to enjoy Lake Michigan. And if something needs to be fixed or adjusted at the last minute, our full mechanical service technician is right here on-site with Great Lakes Yacht Sales.
Are you going to catch dinner while you're out? Our fish cleaning station makes it simple to properly process your catch. These are the little touches that make Simmons Island Marina your home away from home on the water.
Seasonal Slip Options
If trailering your boat every time you want to go out is becoming tiring, one of our 142 boat slips may be the solution. Seasonal slips at Simmons Island allow you to come and go all season long. Simply arrive, board and venture out onto Lake Michigan.
Every slip includes electricity, water, and telephone so your boat will be charged and ready to go. The floating dock system is level with the water for safe and easy boarding all season long.
The Simmons Island Advantage
What truly differentiates Simmons Island Marina is convenience mixed with ambiance. You're not just buying a spot to put your boat in or take it out of the water. You'll be joining a boating community with similar interests about life on and near the water.
The protected harbor means that when you aren't using your boat it is safe. The lovely park setting makes it a joy to hang out at the marina, even when you're not out on the water. And it's a stone's throw from Kenosha's historic downtown district, so you can have lunch, browse or meet friends without driving anywhere.
Turning 2026 into Your Best Boating Season
At Great Lakes Yacht Sales, our motto has always been boatloads of fun in the sun for Lake Michigan's boating family. Whether you have been a customer for years or this is the first season you are considering Simmons Island Marina, we will do everything in our power to ensure your summer on the water is one of the best ones yet!
We know owning a boat is only the beginning. It's all about relaxing with family and friends, making memories that last a lifetime, and experiencing the freedom of Lake Michigan.
Ready to Launch?
Save the date for the 2026 season: Start planning now. Whether you need seasonal storage, access to our launching ramps or assistance preparing your boat for the water, we can help at Simmons Island Marina.
View our marina pricing and slip lease at glysinc.com or come visit us in person. We're located on Simmons Island in Kenosha and invite you to come visit us so we can show you around and answer any questions.
Here's to smooth launches, calm waters and an unforgettable 2026 season on Lake Michigan. We'll see you at the marina.
