Take a fun trip on the majestic Chi-Cheemaun Ferry from Tobermory to Manitoulin island and enjoy the feel of a cruise ship. The 1.45 hr crossing (25 miles/40 kms) to South Baymouth is very relaxing, invigorating and refreshing. I recommend you take your vehicle with you only if you are planning to spend a day on Manitoulin island. All the places of interest are in two opposite directions therefore you need time. There is no transportation from the Ferry dock, a vehicle is a must if you want to get around.
Chi-Cheemaun Ferry — Tobermory to Manitoulin Island
1. Chi-Cheemaun Ferry
Chi-Cheemaun Ferry, Tobermory
The Ferry has three different sailing schedules May 4 – June 14, June 15 – Sep 3 and Sep 4 – Oct 14. Fare varies depending on single, return or with vehicle trip. If taking your vehicle, make a reservation once you have confirmed bookings. Be at the departure parking lot 1-hour prior to sailing. if not, your reservation is subject to availability of space. Once your reservation is validated and your vehicle is in the parking lot, you can go grab a bite, shop or wander the harbor till 10-minutes before departure time. Walk-on passengers can arrive 10-minutes before departure.
Passenger lounge on Chi-Cheemaun Ferry, Tobermory
On board there is a superb dining hall, information centre, lounges and two aft decks with Muskoka chairs for relaxation. The menu is pretty good and the food delicious. I recommend the Chicken Pot Pie, it comes with green-peas, fries and gravy if you prefer.
Chicken Pot Pie on board the MS Chi-Cheemaun
2. Manitoulin Island (East)
We made a 4 hour stop in Manitoulin but that was just about barely enough to cover one arm of the sights on the island. We visited Manitowaning and Sheguiandah on Hwy 6 North. Both are small towns with a lot of history but not many sights however, we came upon a gem. Norisle, the predecessor to Chi-Cheemaun is retired in Manitowaning and it was an impressive sight to see.
Norisle in Manitowaning, Manitoulin Island
On the way from Manitowaning to Sheguiandah you come upon a Native Trading Post selling hand-made items. Souvenirs, paintings, leather and wooden handicrafts etc.. In Sheguiandah, the Batman Sawmill makes for good photography or take a picture sitting on the giant Muskoka chair.
Native Trading Post between Manitowaning and Sheguiandah
Batman Sawmill in Sheguiandah, Manitoulin Island
Giant Muskoka Chair in Sheguiandah, Manitoulin Island
Man posing on Giant Muskoka Chair in Sheguiandah, Manitoulin Island
3. Manitoulin Island (West)
Providence Bay Beach supposedly the best beach in Northern Ontario. It is 18.6 miles (30 kms) from South Baymouth Ferry Terminal. Take Hwy 6 North, West on Side Rd. 10, Left on 6 Concession Rd., Right on Side Rd. 15 and Left on Government Road.
Bridal Veil Falls, Kagawong, Manitoulin Island, Ontario-Canada. Image credit-northeasternontario.com
Bridal Veil Falls is near the town of Kagawong 36 miles (58 kms) from South Baymouth. North on Hwy 6, West on Hwy 542, Right on Gibraltar Road. Left on Rockville Road, Right on Hwy 551 and Left on Hwy 540. Along the way is the First Nations Reserve of M’Chigeeng which is definitely worth visiting.
