Bigwin Steamship

Come and visit the newly refurbished Lake of Bays Marine Museum located on Main Street, by the bridge. You can relive history by taking a cruise on the SS Bigwin during one of its schedules cruises or for a special event. Learn more about the history of the lake, check out some remarkable local art, and purchase some novelty SS Bigwin items. Go to www.ssbigwin.com for more information on donations, public cruises, private events and our calendar of events. 1-844-4-BIGWIN (1-844-424-4946)

Originally owned by James Kuhn of Pittsburgh, PA, she was named Ella Mary and was personal transportation to their island property on Lake Muskoka. Kuhn lost the island in 1925 and the boat was purchased by the Lake Simcoe Navigation Company for $3,500. She was moved by rail and man-power to South Portage on Lake of Bays and re-named Bigwin where she ferried tourists from Norway Point to Bigwin Inn until the inn was closed in 1966.

The Bigwin sunk in her berth after decades of decay. A group of volunteer firefighters transported her remains to a dry-dock in 1991. It was a 10 year endeavour, but a group of determined fundraisers, ship builders and mechanical specialists envisioned the re-launch of the S.S. Bigwin Ferry on her 100th anniversary.