Aug
30
2010
Muskoka Steamships & Heritage Boatworks
Author: RockyWell, its time for another Muskoka article! This time, on the actual cruises themselves. If you’re in Gravenhurst, Muskoka – you really have to get the true muskoka experience and get yourself onto a steam ship! The Real Muskoka Experience’s Steamships allow you to do this!
To follow the story of the Muskoka Lakes Navigation Company from the re-sail of the Segwun after refurbishing in 1981 to present day, is a tale of unprecedented growth, success and achievement. It’s a story of the Segwun proudly plying the lakes and representing the elegance, style and heritage of Muskoka’s past and it’s a tale of Segwun today having earned a reputation as an Ontario tourism icon.
With a sailing season of just 145 days, present day Segwun welcomes passengers on board from around the world. From her scenic Lunch and Millionaires Row Cruises to the ever-popular Sunset Dinner Cruises, Segwun’s coal-fired engines work harder today than they did more than a hundred years ago. Combined with private charters, their “crown jewel” fills to capacity at 99 passengers and graces all three of the Muskoka lakes in true Segwun style. Photographs of the Segwun outweigh any other in the region, proving that she is the recognized symbol of Muskoka with many believing that her haunting whistle sounds out as the official “heartbeat” which awakens the region each Spring.
Recognition of the Segwun only escalated. As the sole survivor of the fleet, she continues to hold status with Canada Post as an official “Royal Mail Ship” and is granted permission to feature her private label wine throughout Ontario by the L.C.B.O. The Ministry of Tourism validated this success, with numerous ads promoting the Segwun’s significance as North America’s oldest operating steamship. In 2001 & 2002, the Segwun was voted Best Large Attraction by Attractions Canada.
With demand for cruises increasing, there was a vision for a sister ship. In May of 2002, the Segwun was joined by Wenonah II ensuring that the Muskoka lakes would be serviced for future generations. Built with all the style of a 1907 Muskoka vessel, Wenonah II combines turn-of-the-century charm with modern conveniences including air-conditioning and an elevator. With a capacity of 200 passengers, Wenonah II could now accommodate larger weddings and corporate events and also be positioned as an exclusive venue for social & corporate entertaining. With ample facilities for live entertainment, Wenonah II can also enhance the traditional sailing schedule with themed events including Dinner & Dance Cruises.
Maintaining the precedent for growth and excellence, 2006 marked the grand opening of Muskoka Boat & Heritage Centre. Voted as one of Canada’s most exciting new attractions, the Heritage Centre unfolds in over 20,000 square feet of dynamic and state-of-the-art exhibits. Offering an interactive experience for visitors that is unrivaled anywhere in the region, the Centre provides a glimpse into the unique aspects of Muskoka life that has attracted millions of visitors and spawned countless memories. The exhibits capture the glory of the Muskoka experience, exploring the rich history of steamships, wooden boats and luxury hotels that helped define their region. Muskoka Boat & Heritage Centre showcases the true spirit of the beloved lakes, which has captivated countless people for generations.
The extraordinary success of the Segwun, Wenonah II and the Muskoka Boat & Heritage Centre each season is in part due to the longstanding support received from Muskoka residents, cottagers and many resort partners who loyally promote the cruise experience as a “must do” when visiting the region. As valued partners of the Muskoka Lakes Navigation Company, owners and operators in the tourism sector are held in the highest regard with their support ensuring that the ships will thrive & flourish for future generations.
Whether cruising for a day or afternoon, quite simply… a cruise aboard the Segwun or Wenonah II is a magical Muskoka experience not to be missed.
For more information on their cruises, prices and times – head to their website!
November 19th, 2010 at 9:12 am
[...] have some lunch at the Sunset Grill. We were also lucky enough this time to go on a day where the Muskoka steam ships were running! Unlike the previous [...]