By Tammy Raycraft,
Bruce Peninsula Press
The MS Chi-Cheemaun arrived back in Tobermory April 30 with a crowd of locals waiting by the water for her. The spring kicked off with the sold-out annual repositioning cruise which signals the start of 2026 sailing season.
Daryl Wood, a Tobermory resident, waited on the dock to see the beloved ferry arrive. “Shirley Clark always said she had to come greet the boat every year,” Wood said. “So, I still come down every year for her.”
Many other locals had similar stories of their traditions of waiting for the boat’s arrival. Julie Austin said it is something she tries to do every year. “It is something that we love to do. I couldn’t get the time off work this year, but my husband and son were there,” she said.
Jessie and Levi Austin waited excitedly on the dock with the local crowd, looking across the water until the boat rounded the corner. The crowd’s excitement grew and they gathered to take pictures, enjoying a favourite moment.
Passengers can expect some exciting things this season.
On Saturday June 16 there will be a special evening sailing along Tobermory’s shoreline during the Chi-Cheemaun Festival Cruise. Hosted by the festival committee, there will be a BBQ dinner and a fireworks display. Ticket details will be announced soon at ontarioferries.com.
Passengers can explore OSTC’s rich history at the Sail Through Time exhibit, featuring historic photographs and artifacts which will be free to visit during your sailing.
According to staff at OSTC there will also be a Play for Passage program where travellers can enjoy live entertainment on select sailings throughout the season, featuring guest speakers, musicians and artists.
Passengers can also check out the boats gift store, where they will find a thoughtfully curated selection of new and classic items, according to staff at OSTC.
This year, Women’s house, serving Bruce and Grey Counties will be the onboard fundraising partner.
As always, the MS Chi-Cheemaun continues to offer a spacious vehicle deck that can safely accommodate everything from large motorhomes and commercial vehicles to bicycles. Walk-on travellers are welcome aboard to enjoy the journey as well, says OSTC.
With the MS Chi-Cheemaun scheduled for its five-year dry dock inspection at the end of the season in October, a Fall Repositioning Cruise has not been scheduled.
