After thousands of voyages, the Chi-Cheemaun has become truly inseparable from Georgian Bay. ‘The Big Canoe’ is woven into the very fabric of this land, as much a part of the landscape as white pines bending in the wind.
Discover Manitoulin Island
Mnidoo Mnising (Manitoulin Island) is a gateway into the very heart of Canada. Pristine wilderness stretches across the island while a genuine spirit of camaraderie is shared by First Nations peoples, non-native residents, and visitors alike.
Ready to sail aboard the Chi-Cheemaun?
Book in advance for peace of mind.
What's On Deck
Dining & Drinks
With full cafeteria service available daily, we offer travelers classic breakfast options in the AM, lunch through midday and dinner into the evenings – check the menu here. Think of it as fuel for the adventures to come and eat up! You may also unwind with a cocktail, craft brew, or a glass of local wine in the aft lounge or alongside your meal.
Ship Amenities
The Upper Deck
Relax in a comfy Muskoka chair or mingle with fellow travelers, all while enjoying the best view to be found anywhere on Georgian Bay. Stick around for sunset – you’ll never forget it.
All Day Cafeteria
Enjoy dining in a completely unique setting. Our cafeteria features viewing windows throughout so you won’t miss a thing while our staff serve you a delicious meal.
Tourist Information
Arrive prepared thanks to our well stocked information centre which features guides, directories, & events for Manitoulin Island as well as the Bruce Peninsula.
Vehicle Transportation
From RVs to bicycles, our large vehicle deck can accommodate your vehicle safely & securely.
Live Entertainment
We’re proud to showcase world class musicians and performers on many of our sailings. This concert setting must be experienced to be believed.
Cultural & Environmental Learning
Throughout the sailing season we host interpretation sessions with Wikwemikong Tourism & Parks Canada. Learn all about the biological and cultural marvels of our region.
Boatique Store
Take along a souvenir of your visit to Manitoulin Island, or return home decked out in stylish Chi-Cheemaun gear. The “Boatique” has something for everyone.
Art Gallery
The rugged beauty of Georgian Bay has inspired countless artists through the ages. Enjoy a rotating selection of contemporary art in our floating gallery.
Ready to sail aboard the Chi-Cheemaun?
Book in advance for peace of mind.
Discover Tobermory and the Bruce Peninsula
The Bruce Peninsula, with massive untouched forests and jaw dropping cliff top views, is world renowned for its rugged natural splendor. Picturesque Tobermory is the ideal base for your adventure in the Bruce, whether it be snorkeling among shipwrecks, hiking the Bruce Trail or touring the friendly towns of the Peninsula.
Testimonials
Reservations may be made online or by telephone 1-800-265-3163.
Telephone Hours:
Pre-Season Bookings
April 15 – May 4
8:00am – 4:00pm
Daily
Off-Season
May 5 – June 23
8:00am -4:00pm
Daily
On Peak
June 24-September 10
8:00am – 4:00pm Daily
Off- Peak
September 11 – October 15
8:00am – 4:00pm
daily
General Information
Reservations
Reservations are required for all passengers, whether walking on or in a vehicle at least 4 hours prior to desired departure time. Full fare is charged at the time of booking and may be paid using Visa, Mastercard, American Express or Visa debit.
Check-In
Reservation holders must check in at the ticket booth a minimum of one hour prior to sail time or reservation is void.
Booking Amendments
Amendments to reservations which impact the fare will incur a credit card transaction fee of $3.00 each time such an amendment is made. Ex: no fee is applied when exchanging an SUV for a small car, as the fare does not change, whereas adding or removing a trailer from a booking incurs a fee as the fare does change.
Cancellations
Cancel or reschedule 48 or more hours prior to departure to receive a full refund of your fare.
Cancellations or rebookings 48-24 hours prior to departure receive 1/2 fare refund.
Cancellations or rebookings with under 24 hours notice receive no refund.
Call 1-800-265-3163 during operating hours or email info@ontarioferries.com 24 hours a day to cancel or reschedule a booking.
Crossing Time
Approximately 1 hour 45 minutes during Peak seaon and 2 hours during Off-peak seasons
Security
All passengers must vacate the vehicle deck during passage. Vehicles are loaded and unloaded at the owner’s risk. Owen Sound Transportation Company assumes no responsibility for the contents of any vehicle, or for the security of, or damage caused to or by vehicles, motorcycles, or bicycles while aboard the ship.
Parking
Ferry parking lots at Tobermory and South Baymouth terminals are restricted to ferry users only. Please secure a parking pass in the terminal building prior to parking.
Fees are applied in peak season only.
Parking Fees:
Same day – free
Daily – $10
Weekly – $60
Accessibility
Elevator and wheelchair access to the ship is available via the passenger ramp in Tobermory and South Baymouth. Passengers with accessibility needs are asked to advise the ticket agent upon arrival.
Pets
Pets may remain inside the vehicle during transit, or within designated areas of the outside decks provided they are leashed and under the control of their owner.
Fuel Regulations
Passengers must declare additional fuel containers upon arrival at the dock. Transport Canada regulations prohibit transporting fuels in excess of the following quantities:
Propane – Recreational Vehicles
No more than two propane cylinders up to 25 litres each, safely secured in an upright position with valves closed, and tagged by OSTC staff.
Propane – Built in Propane Tanks
The tank must be original equipment manufactured (OEM), and engineered for the vehicle.
Gasoline – Automobiles
No more than two portable containers of up to 25 litres each.
Gasoline – Motorboats
No more than two portable containers of up to 25 litres each.
Commercial Trucks
Trucks which require overweight highway permits cannot board the Chi-Cheemaun. Trucks with wide load permits are subject to restrictions and additional fees.
Buses
Buses must book in advance.
