MS Chi-Cheemaun to Enter Dry Dock Following 2026 Sailing Season
Owen Sound, Ont. – With the 2026 sailing season wrapping up on October 18, the Owen Sound Transportation Company (OSTC) wishes to remind passengers and community members that the MS Chi-Cheemaun will proceed to dry dock for her five-year inspection following the end of the season. OSTC does not anticipate the vessel will return to Owen Sound Harbour for her winter berth this year; should this change, updates will be posted at ontarioferries.com.
With the vessel scheduled for inspection, there will be no Fall Repositioning Cruise this year. OSTC recognizes that this annual cruise is a favourite tradition for many passengers and appreciates the understanding of those who look forward to taking part each fall.
Passengers are encouraged to check our website in March 2027, when OSTC expects to release its 2027 sailing schedule and seasonal events information, including 2027 repositioning cruise opportunities.
But the season isn’t over yet! Until October 18, passengers can still set sail between Tobermory and Manitoulin Island aboard the iconic MS Chi-Cheemaun. Whether travelling by motor home, commercial vehicle, motorcycle, bicycle, or on foot, passengers can enjoy the scenic crossing and make the most of the remaining days of the sailing season. For reservations and information, call 1-800-265-3163 or visit ontarioferries.com.
-30-
About the MS Chi-Cheemaun:
As one of the most recognizable ferries in Canada, the MS Chi-Cheemaun continues to be an integral symbol of Georgian Bay and has carried an estimated 10 million passengers and three million vehicles, completing 24,000 voyages between Tobermory and Manitoulin Island since 1974.
About Owen Sound Transportation Company (OSTC):
The Owen Sound Transportation Company (OSTC), an agency of the Government of Ontario, plays a vital role in Ontario’s tourism and transportation system, overseeing the operation of four ships, seven terminals and dock facilities and administers contractor-operated seasonal air service. OSTC owns and operates the MS Chi-Cheemaun ferry, which provides seasonal service to community members, commercial clients and a large tourism-based ridership between Manitoulin Island and the Bruce Peninsula, sailing along the borders of Georgian Bay and Lake Huron. The MV Niska I, a landing craft ferry, provides vehicle, freight and passenger transportation services between Moosonee and Moose Factory Island on the Moose River at the mouth of James Bay. Additionally, OSTC operates the MV Pelee Islander and MV Pelee Islander II for ferry service between the mainland, Pelee Island, and Sandusky, Ohio.