The Segwun Steamship: Younger Than Canada, But Equally Grand
One of two incredible vessels in the Muskoka Steamships fleet, the RMS Segwun reminds captivated passengers of what life has been like on these iconic waters for 130 years.
If you’ve ever been a tourist in this part of Ontario’s cottage country, then you maybe owe your Muskoka vacation to the historical steamships that started sailing here before Canada was born. That’s because, beginning in 1866 when the first steamship – The Wenonah – headed up the lakes, she and her subsequent sister supply ships were able to transport more people and supplies throughout the region, including to the original resorts that started popping up (with Windermere House on Lake Rosseau being the oldest).
Added to this fleet not many years later was the Royal Mail Ship (RMS) Segwun, which did exactly what its name implies – transported mail around the lakes on behalf of the reigning British monarch of the times. And this year, amazing at is sounds, the RMS Segwun is celebrating her 130th birthday.
Much has changed since the steamships acted as working boats, including the building of the replica ship Wenonah II. But the opportunity for folks to experience the serenity and beauty of Muskoka’s famous lakes aboard an historic boat – just like they did over a century ago – is one that will give you a hankering for a romanticized past.
Sightseeing, dining and special occasions cruises are what the boats offer these days, to the delight of visitors and history fans alike. And an autumn cruise aboard The Segwun or Wenonah II is a spectacular excursion you’ll never forget.
Incredible Fall Cruises
Moored at the Muskoka Wharf in Gravenhurst (which is also home to the Muskoka Discovery Centre and North America’s largest in-water collection of antique and classic boats), a variety of cruises aboard the RMS Segwun and the Wenonah II are available from September 5 until October 9, 2017 (Canadian Thanksgiving). These include daily 2-hour sightseeing tours with optional lunch or High Tea, 2.5-hour cruises with an optional 2-course lunch, and 3.5-hour Saturday sunset cruises, with an optional 3-course dinner.
Fall colour cruises, with the brilliant reds, oranges and yellows on shore mirrored in the sparkling blue lakes, are a unique and mesmerizing way to explore these beautiful waters, and the perfect way to embrace Canada’s most vibrant season.
This fall, celebrate Canada’s 150th with a cruise aboard the 130-years-young RMS Segwun and her sister ship, Wenonah II. Private charters, weddings and events can be booked as well. Free admission to Muskoka Discovery Centre (open year-round) is included with every steamship ticket.
To book a scenic fall cruise on the Muskoka Steamships, click here.
For directions to the Muskoka Steamships at the Gravenhurst Wharf, click here.
