In 1910, a steamship was launched onto Lake of Bays that would carry generations of travellers across Muskoka's most beautiful waterways. For over a century, the SS Bigwin has been more than a vessel — she's been a gathering place, a landmark, and a living connection to the golden age of Ontario's cottage country.
Today, after a loving restoration, the SS Bigwin sails once more. She carries a new generation of passengers through the same stunning landscapes, keeping alive the stories of the families, hoteliers, and adventurers who built this community on the water.
A Canadian Tradition Since 1910
Canada's lake country was built on waterways, not highways. From the Rideau to the Kawarthas, from Georgian Bay to Lake of Bays, steamships were the connective tissue of a nation still finding its shape. They carried mail and groceries to island communities, ferried summer visitors to grand resort hotels, and created a way of life that defined Ontario's cottage country for generations. The SS Bigwin — launched in 1910 and still sailing today — is one of the last living links to that era.
The Age of Steam
In the early 1900s, steamships were the only way to reach the islands and resorts of Lake of Bays. They were lifelines, social hubs, and the gateway to Muskoka's golden age of tourism and hospitality.
Muskoka's Golden Era
Grand hotels like Bigwin Inn drew visitors from across North America. The SS Bigwin ferried them across pristine waters, creating memories that spanned generations of Canadian families.
A Living Legacy
Today, the restored SS Bigwin carries passengers through the same breathtaking landscape. Every cruise is a chance to touch living Canadian history — and become part of the story.
Our Journey
A Century on the Water
A Ship is Born
The Golden Age
Changing Tides
The Restoration Begins
Sailing Once More
A Ship is Born
The SS Bigwin is launched onto Lake of Bays, built to carry guests to the grand Bigwin Inn resort on Bigwin Island — one of Muskoka's most storied destinations.
The Golden Age
The steamship becomes the lifeline of Lake of Bays, ferrying thousands of summer visitors to the grand hotels and island retreats that defined Muskoka's golden era.
Changing Tides
As roads improved and automobile travel grew, the age of steamship transport faded. The SS Bigwin was retired from regular service but never forgotten by the community.
The Restoration Begins
A dedicated group of volunteers and heritage enthusiasts came together with a shared vision: to restore the SS Bigwin and preserve Lake of Bays' maritime heritage for future generations.
Sailing Once More
Fully restored and Transport Canada certified, the SS Bigwin carries up to 30 passengers on intimate heritage cruises, while the Marine Museum preserves the region's rich nautical history.
Brought Back to Life
The restoration of the SS Bigwin was a labour of love spanning years of meticulous craftsmanship. Every detail — from her original hull lines to her historic cabin fittings — was carefully preserved or faithfully recreated. Today she sails as a testament to the community's dedication to preserving Muskoka's maritime heritage.
Historic Gallery
Our Mission
Preserving Maritime Heritage
The Lake of Bays Marine Museum & Navigation Society is a registered Canadian charity dedicated to preserving and sharing the maritime heritage of Lake of Bays and the Muskoka region.
Through our heritage cruises, marine museum, and community partnerships with the Lake of Bays Sailing Club, Heritage Foundation, and Dorset Health Hub, we work to ensure that the stories of this remarkable waterway are never lost.