Most people only ever see this sunset from shore.
A private charter aboard a restored mahogany Hacker-Craft, the whole boat to yourselves. You get an hour and a half on the water, unhurried, as the sun sets.
The Signature Sunset
The Signature Sunset is about 90 minutes of golden hour on the lake, timed to end as the light goes. Up to six guests, one cruise per evening from June into early October. Bring the bottle you've been saving and we'll have the ice and glasses ready.
Before you book
Anything I haven't covered? Text me at (406) 333-1335 and I'll answer it myself.
Fridays, Saturdays and holiday eves are $3,000 for up to six guests. Groups of 7 to 10 are priced by quote.
Have a date in mind? Text me and I'll tell you what's open.
Text Shawn at (406) 333-1335Groups and occasions
The Empress is set up for six guests: $2,500 midweek and $3,000 on Fridays, Saturdays and holiday eves. Groups of 7 to 10, including company teams and private parties, are priced by quote. For a couple's portrait ride, a getaway or a proposal, it's the same private evening at the same price, just for the two of you. Wedding-party and rehearsal cruises for 7 to 10 guests start at $4,500.
On a wedding day we can keep the ride short so hair and makeup make it to the ceremony. Longer cruises are possible by request; 90 minutes is the sweet spot, and there's no restroom aboard. If someone in your group needs a hand boarding, tell me ahead and we'll plan for it.
If it's an anniversary or a proposal, tell me when you text and we'll work out the timing around the light. You're welcome to bring flowers.
Planning for a group? Text me the date and headcount and I'll send a quote.
A 30-foot Hacker-Craft triple cabin, restored down to a new bottom.
Restored at Hagadone Marina in Coeur d'Alene by Coeur Custom.
Photos by Steve Lapkin
Whitefish Woody Weekend, 2024–2026
When you text, I'm the one who answers.
I'm Shawn Isakson. I own the Empress, and I'm the one at the wheel. I bought her and had Coeur Custom at Hagadone Marina restore her down to a new bottom, which any wooden boat person will tell you is the whole job. She took People's Choice at Woody Weekend in 2024, and I received the Commodore Award in 2025.
My first boat was a wooden drift boat in Alaska, bought when it was more money than I had. For this lake I wanted a Hacker-Craft, and she rides behind the Land Rover I'd wanted since I was sixteen.
Many of the photos here are Steve Lapkin's, from Whitefish Woody Weekend. Questions about the boat? Text me, I'm always happy to talk wooden boats.
Shawn
What guests say
“Seeing Whitefish and its spectacular surroundings from the water is something truly special, and there is no better way to do it than with Shawn aboard the Empress.”
“When we visit again we will bring our friends to join us. It's a very valuable, exclusive experience you shouldn't pass on if you are in town!”
“Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply looking for a beautiful outing on the water, this is a must-do!”
“I would give it six stars if I could!”
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Book a date
The easiest way to book is to text me at (406) 333-1335. You can also call or email shawn@shawnisakson.com, and either way I write back myself. Tell me the date and how many are coming and I'll confirm what's open. Book by March 31 and you can cancel for a full refund within 7 days of booking; from April 1 that window is 24 hours. Bookings made within 14 days of the cruise aren't refundable, since the grazing board and arrangements start right away. After the window, I'm happy to move your date once if another is open, and if I cancel for weather you choose a new date or a full refund.
What date are you thinking?