Lake of Bays Maritime Heritage

Marine Museum

Discover a Century of Maritime History

The Lake of Bays Marine Museum houses a fascinating collection of artifacts, photographs, and stories that trace the rich nautical heritage of Muskoka's waterways. From the era of grand steamships to the evolution of lake navigation, our exhibits bring the past to life.

Our Collection

Exhibit Highlights

The SS Bigwin Story

Follow the complete history of our flagship vessel from her 1910 launch through restoration to today.

Navigation & Charts

Historic navigation instruments, maps, and charts that guided vessels through Lake of Bays.

Historic Photographs

A visual journey through the steamship era with rare photographs of Lake of Bays and its communities.

Maritime Artifacts

Original fittings, tools, and memorabilia from the vessels and docks that served the lake.

Inside the Museum

Gallery

Returning to Bigwin Island — the SS Bigwin approaches the historic Inn pavilion
Returning to Bigwin Island — the SS Bigwin approaches the historic Inn pavilion
Relaunch day, 2012 — lowered back into Lake of Bays after a decade of restoration
Relaunch day, 2012 — lowered back into Lake of Bays after a decade of restoration
The restored ship's wheel — brass and hand-finished hardwood in the wheelhouse
The restored ship's wheel — brass and hand-finished hardwood in the wheelhouse
The engine — the polished heart of the vessel, rebuilt for quiet electric propulsion
The engine — the polished heart of the vessel, rebuilt for quiet electric propulsion
The community gathers — crowds line the shore to watch the SS Bigwin sail again
The community gathers — crowds line the shore to watch the SS Bigwin sail again
Evening on Lake of Bays — the SS Bigwin from above at sunset
Evening on Lake of Bays — the SS Bigwin from above at sunset
Visit the Museum
Plan Your Museum Visit

Visit the Museum

The Marine Museum is located at 1090 Main Street in Dorset, Ontario, adjacent to our cruise dock. Museum access is complimentary with every cruise ticket, or visit independently during our operating season from June through October.

Plan Your Visit
Common Questions

Museum FAQ

Yes! Every cruise ticket includes complimentary admission to the Marine Museum. We recommend exploring the museum before or after your sailing.

Absolutely. The museum is open to all visitors during our operating season from June through October. Check our Plan Your Visit page for current hours.

Yes! Children love exploring the maritime artifacts and learning about the steamship era. The exhibits are engaging for visitors of all ages.

Most visitors spend 30–45 minutes exploring the museum. Combined with a cruise, plan for a half-day heritage experience on the waterfront.

Combine Your Visit

Experience both the cruise and the museum for the complete SS Bigwin heritage experience

View Cruise Options