
Lake of Bays Marine Museum and SS Bigwin
Cruise the historic SS Bigwin on Lake of Bays, enjoying electric boat rides, engaging history, and stunning scenery.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Enjoy scenic views and history

Lake of Bays Marine Museum and SS Bigwin
Best Time
Enjoy scenic views and history
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Cruise the historic SS Bigwin on Lake of Bays, enjoying electric boat rides, engaging history, and stunning scenery.
"An unforgettable cruise trip with fascinating history and stories about Lake of Bays."

🎯 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!

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

SS Bigwin Electric Cruise
Lake of Bays
Experience a historic boat, now electric, offering scenic tours with engaging commentary.

Captain's Historical Commentary
Onboard SS Bigwin
Learn fascinating local history and stories from a knowledgeable and entertaining captain.

Dinner Cruise Experience
Cunnington Lodge
Enjoy an excellent meal and superb service during a memorable evening cruise.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Ahead for Popular Cruises
Embrace the Scenic Lake Life
Best Times
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!
📸 Photo ops at the wheel
Ask the crew if you can try steering or pose at the wheel for a memorable photo!
🍽️ Dinner cruise is a treat
The meal at Cunnington Lodge is excellent, making for a perfect celebratory evening.
👂 Listen to the captain's stories
The commentary is highly praised for its historical insights and engaging delivery.
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!
📸 Photo ops at the wheel
Ask the crew if you can try steering or pose at the wheel for a memorable photo!
🍽️ Dinner cruise is a treat
The meal at Cunnington Lodge is excellent, making for a perfect celebratory evening.
👂 Listen to the captain's stories
The commentary is highly praised for its historical insights and engaging delivery.
🪑 Comfortable seating
Enjoy the stunning views from comfortable, cushioned wicker furniture onboard.
What Travellers Say
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
What People Dislike
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.
Both Dorset and Dwight are accessible by car. Parking availability can vary, so arriving a little early is advisable.
Public transportation options to the Lake of Bays area are limited. Driving is the most common and convenient way to reach the departure points.
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.
The drive between Dorset and Dwight is approximately 15 minutes, which can be helpful if you realize you're at the wrong location.
🎫 🎫 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.
Yes, they offer various cruises, including scenic tours and dinner cruises. The dinner cruise is particularly popular for special occasions.
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.
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.
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.
🎫 🧭 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.
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.
Some visitors have reported being allowed to try steering the electric boat, which is a fun and memorable experience.
The boat features comfortable, cushioned wicker furniture, providing a pleasant place to relax and enjoy the scenic views.
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.
🍽️ 🍽️ 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.
The Cunnington Lodge is described as a beautiful spot where excellent meals are served, contributing to a memorable dining experience.
Typically, bringing outside food and beverages is not permitted on organized cruises. It's best to check the specific policies when booking.
For dinner cruises, it's advisable to inquire about dietary options when booking to ensure they can accommodate your needs.
The dinner cruise offers a memorable celebration atmosphere, with accommodating staff and a focus on providing a special experience.
📸 📸 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.
Some visitors have been allowed to take photos at the captain's wheel, which makes for a unique souvenir shot.
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.
Late afternoon or early evening cruises can offer beautiful golden hour lighting, enhancing the scenic views.
Generally, personal photography is allowed. However, it's always good practice to be mindful of other passengers and avoid intrusive photography.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
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.
💍 Couples & Special Occasions
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.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
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.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The SS Bigwin: A Historic Vessel Reimagined
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.
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.
Experiencing the Lake of Bays
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.
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.



Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit