Chi-Cheemaun Ferry
A scenic ferry crossing Georgian Bay, connecting Tobermory and Manitoulin Island with stunning views and onboard amenities.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Clear skies, calm waters
Chi-Cheemaun Ferry
Best Time
Clear skies, calm waters
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A scenic ferry crossing Georgian Bay, connecting Tobermory and Manitoulin Island with stunning views and onboard amenities.
"It’s not just transportation, it really feels like part of the adventure watching the shoreline disappear."
🎯 Book Ahead for Peak Times
Secure your spot early, especially for summer sailings, as tickets sell out quickly!
⏰ Arrive Early for Boarding
Give yourself an hour before departure to find the right line and avoid missing your ferry.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Scenic Georgian Bay Views
Onboard the ferry
Enjoy breathtaking vistas of Georgian Bay's crystal-clear waters and rugged coastline during your crossing.
Manitoulin Island Arrival
South Baymouth
Experience the unique charm of Manitoulin Island, the world's largest freshwater island, as you disembark.
Onboard Amenities
Ferry interior
Relax with food, drinks, and souvenirs available in the ferry's comfortable indoor spaces.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Your Chi-Cheemaun Ferry Tickets Early
Arrive Early for Smooth Boarding
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Book Ahead for Peak Times
Secure your spot early, especially for summer sailings, as tickets sell out quickly!
⏰ Arrive Early for Boarding
Give yourself an hour before departure to find the right line and avoid missing your ferry.
🐶 Pet-Friendly Decks
Bring your furry friends along! Many travelers enjoy having their dogs on deck with them.
📸 Capture Stunning Views
The journey offers incredible photo opportunities of Georgian Bay's natural beauty.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Book Ahead for Peak Times
Secure your spot early, especially for summer sailings, as tickets sell out quickly!
⏰ Arrive Early for Boarding
Give yourself an hour before departure to find the right line and avoid missing your ferry.
🐶 Pet-Friendly Decks
Bring your furry friends along! Many travelers enjoy having their dogs on deck with them.
📸 Capture Stunning Views
The journey offers incredible photo opportunities of Georgian Bay's natural beauty.
🍽️ Onboard Dining Options
Grab a bite at the buffet or enjoy a coffee; food quality is decent for a ferry meal.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
The Chi-Cheemaun Ferry is widely praised for its scenic beauty, punctuality, and smooth operations, offering a memorable travel experience. Passengers appreciate the spaciousness, cleanliness, and friendly staff, making the journey enjoyable for both vehicle and walk-on travelers. While onboard food is considered decent for a ferry, some find it could be improved.
"The Chi-Cheemaun Ferry is such a unique and enjoyable experience. Boarding was smooth and well organized, and the staff were friendly and helpful throughout the trip. The ferry itself is spacious with plenty of seating both indoors and on the deck, offering amazing views of Georgian Bay. I really appreciated how clean and well-kept everything was. The ride was calm, comfortable, and felt safe the entire way.
It’s not just transportation, it really feels like part of the adventure watching the shoreline disappear, enjoying the breeze on deck, and taking in the scenery made the journey special. Definitely worth it if you’re traveling between Tobermory and Manitoulin Island."
Simona Bradacova
"The ship itself is truly stunning—its design and atmosphere immediately catch your attention. We arrived about an hour before the scheduled departure, which gave us plenty of time to settle in and explore a bit. Although we had to wait briefly before boarding, everything ran smoothly, and the ship departed precisely on time. It’s important to note that punctuality is taken seriously, so arriving late could mean missing the departure entirely.
Boarding was generally straightforward, with a simple and efficient process. However, the only slightly confusing part was locating the correct line for ticket verification. When you arrive at the port, make sure to turn at the right-hand curb. There’s a small sign indicating where to go, but it’s positioned in a way that’s easy to overlook, so keep an eye out—it’s right at the turn and not very prominent.
Once onboard, you’ll find a buffet offering reasonably priced food with decent quality, perfect for a light meal during the journey. There’s also a small gift shop where you can browse for souvenirs or travel essentials. As the ship sails, the scenery along the route is absolutely breathtaking. The nearly two-hour journey passes by effortlessly thanks to the beautiful views and relaxing ambiance."
MM Jan
"Memorable ride on the Chi-Cheemaun! The ship is spotless, roomy and very comfortable. So glad we could bring our dog on board and have him with us on deck. The crew are very professional and the whole booking, boarding and disembarking went like clockwork. The views and overall experience were fantastic. We listened to Stan Rogers and watched as the gorgeous Group of Seven landscapes rolled past. Good coffee and gluten free treats too! A bucket list item for sure."
Catherine Bacque
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Chi-Cheemaun Ferry terminal is located in Tobermory, Ontario. If you're driving from Southern Ontario, you'll typically take Highway 6 North. The terminal is well-signposted upon arrival in Tobermory.
Taking the Chi-Cheemaun ferry offers a scenic experience and is a unique part of the journey to Manitoulin Island. While bridges exist, the ferry provides a direct and enjoyable crossing over Georgian Bay.
The primary route for the Chi-Cheemaun ferry is between Tobermory on the Bruce Peninsula and South Baymouth on Manitoulin Island.
The ferry crossing on the Chi-Cheemaun typically takes about 1 hour and 45 minutes to 2 hours, depending on conditions.
Yes, the Chi-Cheemaun ferry can accommodate up to 143 vehicles, including cars, buses, and transport trucks.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
You can book your Chi-Cheemaun ferry tickets online through the official Owen Sound Transportation Company website. It's highly recommended to book in advance, especially during peak season.
Fares for the Chi-Cheemaun ferry vary based on vehicle size and passenger count. Check the official website for the most up-to-date pricing and fare information.
Reservations are strongly recommended, particularly if you are traveling with a vehicle, to guarantee your spot on the ferry. Walk-on passengers may have more flexibility, but booking ahead is always wise.
Boarding is generally efficient. Arrive about an hour before departure to locate the correct ticket verification line, which can sometimes be easy to miss.
While it might be possible to purchase tickets at the terminal if space is available, it's best to book in advance online to avoid disappointment and ensure your travel plans.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The ferry offers a buffet restaurant with reasonably priced food, a gift shop, and comfortable seating areas both indoors and on deck.
Yes, pets are welcome aboard the Chi-Cheemaun ferry and can accompany you on deck, making it a great option for travelers with dogs.
The MS Chi-Cheemaun has a passenger capacity of 648 people, ensuring ample space for travelers.
Yes, the ferry sometimes hosts special events like festival dinner cruises, offering a unique dining and entertainment experience on the water.
The atmosphere is generally relaxing and scenic, with many passengers enjoying the views from the deck and the calm ride across Georgian Bay.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, the ferry features a buffet restaurant offering a selection of food and drinks. It's a convenient option for a meal during the crossing.
The buffet typically offers a range of options suitable for a light meal. While not gourmet, it's considered decent quality for ferry dining.
Some reviews mention good coffee and gluten-free treats being available, suggesting some dietary accommodations are made.
Food on the Chi-Cheemaun ferry is generally considered reasonably priced, offering good value for a meal during your journey.
While not explicitly stated, it's generally acceptable to bring personal snacks and non-alcoholic beverages onto the ferry for consumption. However, purchasing from the onboard facilities supports the service.
📸 📸 Photography
The outer decks offer panoramic views of Georgian Bay, the islands, and the coastline, making them ideal for photography. The bow and stern also provide unique perspectives.
Expect to capture stunning images of clear blue waters, rocky shorelines, the Bruce Peninsula's natural beauty, and potentially wildlife.
Yes, especially when approaching or departing the terminals, you can capture impressive shots of the MS Chi-Cheemaun against the backdrop of the water and landscape.
Early morning or late afternoon light often provides the most dramatic and beautiful lighting for landscape and ferry photography.
Generally, there are no restrictions on personal photography. However, always be mindful of other passengers and avoid intrusive photography.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
To make the most of the experience, arrive early to ensure you get good seating and have time to explore the ferry before departure. The novelty of being on a large boat crossing the water is often a big hit with younger travelers. Booking tickets in advance is crucial, especially during school holidays, to avoid disappointment.
🐶 Pet Owners
Ensure your pet is leashed and under control at all times. While there aren't specific pet facilities, the open deck space provides a comfortable environment for them. It's a significant advantage for pet owners looking for a seamless travel experience between Tobermory and Manitoulin Island.
🚗 Road Trippers
Remember to book your vehicle passage well in advance, as car spots are limited and highly sought after, especially during peak travel seasons. The ferry experience itself is a highlight, offering a break from driving and a chance to enjoy the stunning natural beauty of the region from a different perspective.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating the Chi-Cheemaun Ferry Experience
The journey itself is a significant part of the appeal. Passengers can enjoy breathtaking views of Georgian Bay from the spacious decks, with the clear, blue waters and rugged shorelines providing a stunning backdrop. Many find the nearly two-hour crossing to be a relaxing and memorable part of their trip, often comparing it to a mini-cruise. The ferry also offers onboard amenities, including a buffet restaurant and a gift shop, providing options for dining and souvenirs during the voyage.
For those planning their trip, it's crucial to book tickets in advance, especially during the busy summer months, as sailings can fill up quickly. The ferry is also pet-friendly, allowing passengers to bring their dogs along on deck, which is a significant plus for many travelers. The Chi-Cheemaun ferry truly offers a unique and enjoyable way to experience the beauty of Ontario's waterways and connect with Manitoulin Island.
Understanding Chi-Cheemaun Ferry Schedules and Booking
Booking Chi-Cheemaun ferry tickets is highly recommended, especially if you are traveling with a vehicle. The ferry can accommodate a significant number of cars, but demand, particularly during weekends and holidays, can lead to sell-outs. Travelers often advise booking several weeks or even months in advance for peak summer travel to secure a spot. The booking process is generally straightforward online, allowing you to select your preferred sailing and pay for your tickets.
When it comes to Chi-Cheemaun ferry prices, they are determined by the type of vehicle and the number of passengers. It's always best to consult the official website for the most accurate and up-to-date fare information. While walk-on passengers might have more flexibility, booking ahead for all travelers is a prudent strategy to ensure a smooth and guaranteed journey across Georgian Bay.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit