Lake of Bays Marine Museum & SS Bigwin - Image 1
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Lake of Bays Marine Museum and SS Bigwin

4.8
·41 reviews·Dorset, Canada

Cruise the historic SS Bigwin on Lake of Bays, enjoying electric boat rides, engaging history, and stunning scenery.

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekend afternoons

Enjoy scenic views and history

CrowdMedium
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Lake of Bays Marine Museum & SS Bigwin - Image 1

Lake of Bays Marine Museum and SS Bigwin

Best Time

Weekend afternoons

Enjoy scenic views and history

CrowdMedium

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Cruise the historic SS Bigwin on Lake of Bays, enjoying electric boat rides, engaging history, and stunning scenery.

4.8
(41 reviews)

"An unforgettable cruise trip with fascinating history and stories about Lake of Bays."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Double-check departure point

Cruises can depart from Dorset or Dwight. Confirm your ticket's departure location to avoid confusion!

📸 Photo ops at the wheel

Ask the crew if you can try steering or pose at the wheel for a memorable photo!

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

SS Bigwin Electric Cruise

SS Bigwin Electric Cruise

Lake of Bays

Experience a historic boat, now electric, offering scenic tours with engaging commentary.

Captain's Historical Commentary

Captain's Historical Commentary

Onboard SS Bigwin

Learn fascinating local history and stories from a knowledgeable and entertaining captain.

Dinner Cruise Experience

Dinner Cruise Experience

Cunnington Lodge

Enjoy an excellent meal and superb service during a memorable evening cruise.

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Planning Your Visit

Book Ahead for Popular Cruises

The SS Bigwin offers unique cruises, especially dinner options. Booking in advance is highly recommended to secure your spot, particularly for special occasions or weekend trips. Check their sailing schedule as departure points can vary.

Embrace the Scenic Lake Life

This experience is all about enjoying the beautiful Lake of Bays. Dress comfortably for a boat ride, and be prepared for informative commentary about the area's history and landmarks. It's a relaxing way to see the region.

Best Times

When
Weekend afternoons
Why
Enjoy scenic views and history
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekday evenings
Why
Relaxing dinner cruise
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

🎯 Double-check departure point

Cruises can depart from Dorset or Dwight. Confirm your ticket's departure location to avoid confusion! Reddit

📸 Photo ops at the wheel

Ask the crew if you can try steering or pose at the wheel for a memorable photo! Reddit

🍽️ Dinner cruise is a treat

The meal at Cunnington Lodge is excellent, making for a perfect celebratory evening. Reddit

👂 Listen to the captain's stories

The commentary is highly praised for its historical insights and engaging delivery. Reddit

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Double-check departure point

Cruises can depart from Dorset or Dwight. Confirm your ticket's departure location to avoid confusion! Reddit

📸 Photo ops at the wheel

Ask the crew if you can try steering or pose at the wheel for a memorable photo! Reddit

🍽️ Dinner cruise is a treat

The meal at Cunnington Lodge is excellent, making for a perfect celebratory evening. Reddit

👂 Listen to the captain's stories

The commentary is highly praised for its historical insights and engaging delivery. Reddit

🪑 Comfortable seating

Enjoy the stunning views from comfortable, cushioned wicker furniture onboard. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.8
(41 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise the SS Bigwin for its unique blend of history and scenic beauty. The engaging commentary from the captain and the friendly crew are frequently highlighted as major positives, making for a relaxing and informative experience. While the departure points can sometimes cause confusion, the overall sentiment is overwhelmingly positive, especially for the memorable dinner cruises.

"Great 1.5 hour tour of the Lake of Bays. Historic boat, now powered by electric motor with a small and quiet diesel generator. Great commentary pointing out the history and landmarks. Friendly captain and crew."

Mike Austin

"This was an unforgettable cruise trip we had. The captain James told us the history of SS Bigwin and stories about lake of bays and Huntsville. The captain allowed us to try to steer the ship."

Quansheng Chang

"We did the dinner cruise and the crew couldn’t have been better. They were so accommodating, taking our picture, and even invited my husband to pose at the wheel for a photo because it was his birthday.
We sat on the most comfortable cushioned wicker furniture to enjoy the stunning views. The commentary on the history of the boat and the area was very informative and extremely well told.
The meal at the Cunnington Lodge was excellent, as was the staff and serve at this beautiful spot. A memorable birthday celebration for my husband all around !"

Rob Coulbeck

What People Like

Engaging historical commentary
Friendly and accommodating crew
Beautiful lake scenery

What People Dislike

Potential confusion with departure points

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The SS Bigwin can depart from both Dorset and Dwight. It's crucial to check your ticket or booking confirmation for the exact departure point, as this can vary. Reddit

Both Dorset and Dwight are accessible by car. Parking availability can vary, so arriving a little early is advisable. Reddit

Public transportation options to the Lake of Bays area are limited. Driving is the most common and convenient way to reach the departure points. Reddit

If you accidentally go to the wrong dock, contact the ticket office immediately. They have been known to hold the boat for a short time if possible. Reddit

The drive between Dorset and Dwight is approximately 15 minutes, which can be helpful if you realize you're at the wrong location. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Tickets can typically be booked online through their official website or by contacting them directly. Booking in advance is recommended, especially for dinner cruises. Reddit

Yes, they offer various cruises, including scenic tours and dinner cruises. The dinner cruise is particularly popular for special occasions. Reddit

Pricing can vary depending on the type of cruise and any special events. It's best to check their official website for the most up-to-date pricing information. Reddit

While it might be possible, it's not guaranteed, especially during peak season or for popular dinner cruises. Booking ahead is strongly advised to avoid disappointment. Reddit

Cancellation policies can vary. It's important to review the terms and conditions at the time of booking or contact the organizers for specific details. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

The SS Bigwin is a historic boat that has been beautifully restored and now operates with a quiet electric motor, supplemented by a small generator. It offers a unique and eco-friendly way to explore the lake. Reddit

The captain provides engaging and informative commentary about the history of the SS Bigwin, Lake of Bays, and local landmarks. It's a highlight for many visitors. Reddit+1

Some visitors have reported being allowed to try steering the electric boat, which is a fun and memorable experience. Reddit

The boat features comfortable, cushioned wicker furniture, providing a pleasant place to relax and enjoy the scenic views. Reddit

Yes, the cruise is generally suitable for all ages. It's a relaxing experience with interesting historical information that can appeal to a wide audience. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Food is primarily served on the dedicated dinner cruises, often at the Cunnington Lodge. These meals are highly praised for their quality and service. Reddit

The Cunnington Lodge is described as a beautiful spot where excellent meals are served, contributing to a memorable dining experience. Reddit

Typically, bringing outside food and beverages is not permitted on organized cruises. It's best to check the specific policies when booking. Reddit

For dinner cruises, it's advisable to inquire about dietary options when booking to ensure they can accommodate your needs. Reddit

The dinner cruise offers a memorable celebration atmosphere, with accommodating staff and a focus on providing a special experience. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The entire cruise offers stunning scenic views of Lake of Bays. Don't miss opportunities to photograph the historic boat itself, the shoreline, and the surrounding natural beauty. Reddit

Some visitors have been allowed to take photos at the captain's wheel, which makes for a unique souvenir shot. Reddit

Yes, the boat provides stable platforms, and the commentary often points out landmarks, giving you context for your shots. The comfortable seating also allows for relaxed photography. Reddit

Late afternoon or early evening cruises can offer beautiful golden hour lighting, enhancing the scenic views. Reddit

Generally, personal photography is allowed. However, it's always good practice to be mindful of other passengers and avoid intrusive photography. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

A cruise on the SS Bigwin is a fantastic family outing. The historic boat itself is captivating for children, and the chance to potentially steer adds an element of excitement. The captain's stories are often engaging enough to hold younger audiences' attention, making it an educational and fun experience. Reddit

Pack some snacks and drinks for the kids, though check policies on bringing outside items. The comfortable seating ensures everyone can relax and enjoy the views. It's a low-key activity that offers a good balance of sightseeing and gentle adventure, perfect for a memorable family day on the water. Reddit

💍 Couples & Special Occasions

The SS Bigwin offers a wonderfully romantic setting, especially for couples celebrating an occasion. The dinner cruises are particularly popular, providing a memorable evening with excellent food and stunning lake views. The attentive crew often goes out of their way to make celebrations special, like posing for birthday photos. Reddit

Opt for an evening cruise to enjoy the sunset over Lake of Bays, creating a truly magical atmosphere. The historical commentary adds an interesting layer to the experience, making it more than just a boat ride – it's a journey through local heritage. Reddit

📸 Photography Enthusiasts

For photographers, the SS Bigwin cruise presents numerous opportunities. The historic vessel itself is a photogenic subject, and the scenic vistas of Lake of Bays are breathtaking. Golden hour cruises, particularly in the late afternoon or early evening, can provide spectacular lighting for landscape shots. Reddit

Don't miss the chance to capture unique shots from the deck, perhaps even from the captain's wheel if permitted. The commentary often highlights points of interest, giving you cues for the best photo spots. The stable platform of the boat makes it easy to get clear, crisp images. Reddit+1

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The SS Bigwin: A Historic Vessel Reimagined

The SS Bigwin is more than just a tour boat; it's a piece of local history brought back to life. Originally a steamship, it has been thoughtfully converted to run on a quiet electric motor, with a small diesel generator for backup. This eco-friendly approach allows visitors to experience the beauty of Lake of Bays with minimal environmental impact. The restoration ensures that the charm and character of this historic vessel are preserved for future generations to enjoy. Reddit

Cruising aboard the SS Bigwin offers a unique perspective on the Lake of Bays region. The engaging commentary provided by the captain is a significant highlight, sharing fascinating stories about the area's past, its landmarks, and the people who have shaped its history. This narrative element transforms the scenic tour into an educational and immersive experience, making it a memorable outing for all passengers. Reddit+1

Visitors often rave about the friendly and accommodating crew, who go the extra mile to make the experience special. From offering photo opportunities at the helm to sharing personal anecdotes, the crew's warmth adds to the overall enjoyment. The comfortable seating, often described as cushioned wicker furniture, ensures a relaxing journey as you soak in the picturesque surroundings. Reddit

Experiencing the Lake of Bays

The Lake of Bays itself is a stunning natural playground, and a cruise on the SS Bigwin is an ideal way to appreciate its beauty. The waters are typically calm, making for a very relaxing boat ride. As the SS Bigwin glides across the lake, you'll be treated to panoramic views of the lush shorelines, charming cottages, and the vast expanse of clear water. Reddit

Beyond the scenic beauty, the area around Lake of Bays is rich in history. The commentary during the cruise often touches upon the early tourism days, the development of the Muskoka region, and the significance of the lake to local communities. This historical context adds depth to the visual experience, allowing visitors to connect with the area on a deeper level. Reddit

For those looking for a more complete experience, the dinner cruises are highly recommended. These often involve a stop at the Cunnington Lodge, where guests can enjoy an excellent meal. This combination of a scenic cruise and a delightful dining experience makes for a perfect evening out, especially for celebrations or a romantic getaway. Reddit

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