Ask any Great Lake boater about their fantasy trip and they will tell you a cruise to the North Channel and Georgian Bay. Known as God’s Country to the avid boater, this waterway covers U.S. and Canadian waters, beyond comparison in splendor to any other body of water in the Great Lakes. Tobermory Canada is a premier travel and boating destination in this great region.
This area is amazingly beautiful and is famous for its Caribbean blue crystal-clear waters, scenic stone ledges and massive rock formations. With over 90,000 islands to explore, boaters can access an endless array of things to do. The ideal Georgian Bay trip is an extended vacation with plenty of time to anchor and explore the islands, coves and unique ports.
One of the most popular towns in this area is Tobermory, which is technically in Lake Huron but is also located at the southwestern entrance of Georgian Bay and at the tip of the Bruce Peninsula in Canada. Tobermory Canada is a nature lover’s paradise and has some of the most famous parks and nature trails. Fathom Five National Marine Park is home to the legendary Flower Pot stone structures, several lighthouses and numerous dive sites. And the adventure continues with a visit to Bruce Peninsula National Park, where the rugged Bruce Hiking Trail on the limestone Niagara Escarpment, Indian Head Cove and the caves of the Grotto are the highlights of the trip. This area is also famous for rare plant and bird species, including 41 species of orchids, bringing nature lovers from all over the Midwest to this region.
Filled with hundreds of shipwrecks, many of which are close to island shores, this region is a mecca for scuba divers and snorkelers. You can either bring your own equipment or rent equipment from the local dive shop. Kayaks, canoes and paddleboats are also available.
If retail therapy is your idea of a vacation, the quaint shops, restaurants and bars in the village of Tobermory will satisfy your appetite. Be sure to visit one of the local fish and chip restaurants for the famous Georgian Bay whitefish and an ice-cold Canadian beer.
After an incredible day of sightseeing and exploring Tobermory Canada, the best way to end the day is to grab a cocktail and head to the shoreline to watch the sunset and stargaze late into the night.
Where to Dock
Big Tub Harbour Resort
Close to downtown, this well-kept, deep-water marina has 38 transient slips, an on-site restaurant and fuel. Kayaks, canoe and paddleboat rentals are available.
Tobermory Marina
Tobermory Marina offers 24 transient boat slips with WiFi, restrooms, showers and fuel. Full marine repair service is close by.
Where to Dine
Bootlegger’s Cove Pub
Located at Big Tub Harbour Resort Marina, this unique pub offers great food, specialty beers and spirits, and the perfect vantage point overlooking the harbor. Whiskey BBQ ribs, burgers and key lime cake are high on the list of recommendations.
Crowsnest Pub & Restaurant
A pub-style restaurant overlooking the harbor features a large-selection menu, full service bar and local Georgian Bay whitefish.
Tobermory Brewing Company & Grill
The draw is the large selection of beers crafted by the resident brew master. It is open year-round and offers dinner, lunch and weekend entertainment.
