The Chi-Cheemaun passenger and vehicle ferry is a popular attraction in Grey and Bruce counties. Here’s some information about the ship and how you can get on board!
Where does the Chi-Cheemaun go?
The Chi-Cheemaun sails between Tobermory (on the Bruce Peninsula) and South Baymouth (on Manitoulin Island).
When does the Chi-Cheemaun run?
During the on-peak season (June to September), the Chi-Cheemaun leaves port every two hours. It leaves Tobermory at 9 a.m., 1 p.m., and 5 p.m. It leaves South Baymouth at 11:00 a.m., 3 p.m., and 7 p.m.
How long are the trips?
Approximately 1 hour 45 minutes during peak season and 2 hours during off-peak seasons.
What’s on board the Chi-Cheemaun?
A full cafeteria service is available daily with classic breakfast options in the morning, lunch through midday, and dinner into the evenings! Cocktails, craft brews and local wine are also available. The cafeteria features large viewing windows to enjoy the passing scenery.
At the top of the ship, the upper deck features Muskoka chairs and the best views on the ship. At the bottom, the Chi-Cheemaun can transport many kinds of vehicles, from cars to large RVs.
The ship provides world-class musicians and performers on many of its sailings. An art gallery highlights the rugged beauty of Georgian Bay with a rotating selection of contemporary art, and the Boatique store offers souvenirs of your visit to Manitoulin Island or Tobermory.
The tourist information centre features guides, directories, and events for Manitoulin Island and the Bruce Peninsula. Throughout the sailing season, interpretation sessions run by Wikwemikong Tourism and Parks Canada help you learn about the biological and cultural marvels of the region.
How can I make a reservation?
Whether just walking on or in a vehicle, you’ll need to make a reservation at least 4 hours beforehand. The full fare is charged at the time of booking, and you can pay with Visa, Mastercard, American Express or Visa debit.
Pets are allowed to stay inside your vehicle or within designated areas of the outside decks if they are leashed and under your control.
Reservations can be made online or by telephone at 1-800-265-3163.
Telephone Hours:
Off Peak On Peak
May 7 – May 31 June 1 – Sept. 6
8:30am – 4:30pm 8:00am – 7:00pm
Daily Daily
8:30am – 8:30pm
Friday
Off Peak Off Season
Sept. 7 – Oct. 17 9:00am – 2:00pm
8:30am – 4:30pm Weekdays
Daily
8:30am – 8:30pm
Friday
A short history of the MS Chi-Cheemaun
In 1921, three Owen Sound owners of the North American Bent Chair Company created the Owen Sound Transportation Company (OSTC). Its purpose was to operate the company’s steamboat SS Michipicoten moving materials along the north shore of Lake Huron and Manitoulin Island and delivering finished products from Owen Sound.
In 1926, OSTC purchased the steel-hulled steamer Madjeska. In 1927, it was renamed the SS Manitoulin and made weekly excursions to Killarney, Manitoulin Island, Sault Ste. Marie and Mackinac Island.
In 1931, OSTC launched the MS Normac. For 30 years, the MS Normac provided seasonal ferry service between Tobermory on the Bruce Peninsula and South Baymouth on Manitoulin Island. OSTC added the SS Norisle with a capacity of 50 automobiles and 250 passengers, and in 1963 added the diesel-powered MS Norgoma to handle the increased traffic.
In 1974, the Ontario Northland Transportation Company (ONTC) acquired OSTC and launched the state-of-the-art MS Chi-Cheemaun (“Big Canoe” in Ojibwe), which can transport 600 passengers and close to 150 vehicles in less than two hours.
The Owen Sound Transportation Company separated from ONTC in 2002 and is now an Operational Enterprise Agency of the Province of Ontario and owns the MS Chi-Cheemaun.
