Four Ways to Experience the Lake
From narrated heritage cruises to private charters — there's a voyage for every occasion.
Discovery Cruise
- Adult $45
- Senior $35
- Child (5–12) $25
- Under 5 $5
~90 minutes · Captain's narration · Museum admission included
Sunset Experience
$69 per personAll ages welcome · One price per guest~2 hours · Extended commentary · Panoramic sunset views · The best light on Lake of Bays
Select evenings, June – September
Lakeside Dining Cruise
~3 hours · Three-course dinner by a local chef · Sunset views · BYOB welcome
Dates and pricing announced soon for Summer 2026
Call to ReservePrivate Charter
From $1,500 starting rateCustom duration · Up to 30 guests · Personalized itinerary · Catering partnerships available
Weddings, corporate events, family reunions, celebrations
Request a QuoteAll prices CAD + HST
Every experience is limited to 30 guests for an intimate, unhurried voyage.
Cruise bookings are paused
Support the RestorationThe SS Bigwin Difference
Intimate by Design
With just 30 guests per sailing, every voyage feels personal. No crowds, no engine roar — just the lake, the stories, and a gentle hum as a century of history moves through the water.
A Living History
This isn't a replica or a theme ride. The SS Bigwin is the real thing — a meticulously restored 1910 vessel, now powered by quiet electric propulsion that lets you hear the water, the loons, and the stories. Transport Canada certified and sailing the same waters she's known for over a century.
The Quiet Side of Muskoka
Lake of Bays is Muskoka's best-kept secret. No jet skis, no party boats — just pristine shorelines, century-old lodges, and the kind of stillness that makes you exhale. This is the Muskoka the cottagers don't share.
Step by Step
Arrive & Park
Free parking at your departure dock. Arrive 15 minutes before your sailing.
Explore the Museum
Browse the Marine Museum's collection of maritime artifacts and photographs while you wait.
Board the SS Bigwin
Step aboard the beautifully restored 1910 steamship and find your seat on deck.
Set Sail
Depart the dock and glide into the bay as your guide begins the narrated journey.
Cruise Lake of Bays
Pass century-old lodges, pristine islands, and the legendary Bigwin Island as history comes alive.
Return & Reflect
Return to dock with new stories, photographs, and a deeper connection to Muskoka's heritage.
What's Included
Expert narration on the history of Lake of Bays and the steamship era
Covered and open-air seating with panoramic views
Stunning photo opportunities from the water
Complimentary Marine Museum admission
Transport Canada certified vessel with full safety equipment
Free parking at the Dorset waterfront dock
What Our Guests Say
Cruise FAQ
The Discovery Cruise is approximately 90 minutes. The Sunset Experience is an extended sailing, typically around 2 hours depending on sunset timing.
Most cruises depart from the Dorset Public Dock at 1090 Main Street, Dorset, Ontario. Select sailings also depart from Dwight. Free parking is available at both locations. We recommend arriving 15 minutes before your scheduled departure — check your booking confirmation for your departure point.
Absolutely! Children of all ages are welcome. Children ages 5–12 receive a reduced fare, and children under 5 are just $5. The narration is engaging for all ages, and kids love being on the water.
The SS Bigwin has both covered and open-air seating. Cruises run rain or shine — some of the most beautiful sailings are on misty days! In the case of severe weather, we'll contact you to reschedule.
Please contact us in advance at 1-844-424-4946 to discuss your accessibility needs. We'll do our best to ensure a comfortable experience for all guests.
Yes! You're welcome to bring your own snacks and non-alcoholic beverages aboard. Please note that we do not serve food or refreshments on the cruise. There are several great restaurants and cafes near the dock in Dorset for a pre- or post-cruise meal.
Full refunds are available up to 48 hours before your sailing. Cancellations within 48 hours may be rescheduled to another available date. No-shows are non-refundable.
Yes! Every cruise ticket includes complimentary access to the Lake of Bays Marine Museum, located right at the dock. We recommend exploring the museum before or after your cruise.
The SS Bigwin was originally steam-powered, but during her restoration the propulsion was upgraded to modern electric power — batteries and a diesel-electric generator. The result is a quieter, cleaner ride that lets you focus on the scenery, the narration, and the sounds of the lake. The original hull, woodwork, and character remain unchanged.
Our Lakeside Dining Cruise is a new experience coming in Summer 2026. It's a three-hour evening voyage featuring a curated three-course dinner prepared by a local chef, served as you cruise the calm waters of Lake of Bays at sunset. Dates and pricing will be announced soon — call us at 1-844-424-4946 or email info@ssbigwin.com to be notified when bookings open.
Private charters are available for weddings, corporate events, family reunions, and special celebrations. The SS Bigwin accommodates up to 30 guests, and we'll work with you to create a custom itinerary on Lake of Bays. Catering partnerships are available. To request a quote or discuss your event, call us at 1-844-424-4946 or email info@ssbigwin.com.