If you've never sailed in big waves before, taking a trip like this is foolhardy at best and potientially suicidal.

A 16 in racing configuration would do OK, but what are you bringing with you? Camping gear? Food / Water? Clothes? All of those items add weight and significantly degrade the boat's ability to handle waves (and sailability in general).

I've raced many times in Lake Michigan, - Wilmette, Chicago's south side, Gary, St. Joseph / Benton Harbor, South Haven, Muskegon, Ludington - and I've seen waves and been in conditions that would make your toenails curl.

If you've got a ground crew to haul your stuff and stayed within sight of the shore, I'd say you'd have a chance. Make sure you have a personal EPIRB and a good, waterproof radio.

For a reality check, read the "Steeplechase Stories" thread in the open fourm. Those guys are highly experienced sailors who came a lot closer to drowning than they'd like to admit. That's also in 80 degree water, not the mid-60's you're likely to encounter in Lake Michigan.