The MS Chi-Cheemaun is setting sail today as it begins its 51st season.
The famous vessel is leaving the Owen Sound harbour today for its Spring Repositioning Cruise after resting up over the winter months to begin its next season of transporting people and vehicles from Tobermory to Manitoulin Island starting Friday morning.
Owen Sound Transportation Company Director of Operations Kerry Adams says they are expecting a busy season.
“We are hoping that European travellers will choose Canada to travel and it is expected that many of our Canadian customers will be staying more local and hopefully we will be able to capitalize on that trend,” says Adams.
Additionally, Adams says the Chi-Cheemaun will be extending its season to Oct. 26.
“Normally we run one week past Thanksgiving weekend. This year, we will be running an extra week past Thanksgiving,” says Adams. “Hopefully that will keep our customers happy because we believe the traffic is there. If it is successful, we will maybe continue that.”
On top of the Spring Repositioning Cruise, Adams says there are a number of events and activities happening this summer with the Chi-Cheemaun.
These include the Sail Through Time Exhibit, which features historic photos and artifacts from the Owen Sound Transportation Company’s archives, as well as the Light up the Night with the Chi-Cheemaun Festival Cruise on June 14. This event will include a barbeque meal as the vessel travels along the Tobermory shoreline and a fireworks display.
More details about Chi-Cheemaun tickets can be found on the Owen Sound Transportation website here.
