GRAVENHURST, Muskoka Lakes Cruise (2008-09-20)

O080920
Click on the picture to see it in full size.

Notes:

  1. One of the new expensive cottage
  2. An other nice cottage
  3. The only light house on lake
  4. The two large boats used for cruises. We went with the larger "Wenonah II", a diesel engine ship built in 2002 in the style of a 1907 Muskoka vessel, equipped with modern facilities, and a capacity of 200 passengers.
    The smaller "Segwin" is the sole survivor of the original Muskoka fleet, she continues to hold status with Canada Post as an official "Royal Mail Ship". The Ministry of Tourism is 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.

    Plaque at the harbour

    STEAMBOATING IN MUSKOKA
    1866 - 1959

    Steam navigation in the Muskoka Lakes began in 1966 when the paddle vessel "Wenonah" went into service. Built at Gravenhurst, she was owned by A.P. Cocburn (1837 - 1905), who served as the federal member of parliament for Muskoka 1872 -82 and for North Ontario 1882 - 87. The "Wenonah"was the first of a line of ships known after 1872 as a North Lake navigation Company, and after 1949 as the Muskoka Lake Line. Its ships were among many which contributed to the early and rapid development of Muskoka as a lumbering and resort region. The steamboat gradually gave way to the automobile, and the last two, "Segwin" (1887) and "Sagamo"(1906) ceased operation in 1958.

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