Muskoka Steamships runs lake cruises from the wharf in Gravenhurst, on the southern shore of Lake Muskoka, and its best-known vessel is the RMS Segwun, one of the oldest operating passenger vessels in the world. The fleet also includes the Wenonah II and the Wanda III, and together they offer scenic cruises, dinner sailings and seasonal specialty trips across the lake. Sailings follow a warm-season schedule, so there is nothing to catch in the colder months. Because the Segwun is a historic vessel that is restored from time to time, it is worth checking her status before planning a cruise around her specifically.
What to expect
A cruise here is a slow, scenic way to see the lake from the water, past wooded shoreline, islands and the historic cottages and boathouses the region is known for. The Segwun is a steam-era vessel with more than a century of history on these lakes, and sailing on her is as much about the ship as the scenery. Sister ships carry the same wharf experience on different routes and times.
Timing matters. Cruising runs in the warm months and stops for the winter, and the fall colour weeks in late September and October are especially popular. The schedule page shows the dates for the coming season once they are set, and Segwun fares carry a surcharge on top of the standard fare, plus tax.
Planning tips
The wharf is at 185 Cherokee Lane in Gravenhurst, and guests are asked to arrive about 45 minutes before departure to check in and collect a boarding pass. The Muskoka Discovery Centre is next door, so a morning cruise and an afternoon in the museum make an easy Gravenhurst day. Book ahead for summer weekends, dinner cruises and fall colour dates.
What to expect
The experience
A scheduled lake cruise aboard a historic steamship or one of her sister ships, departing from the Gravenhurst wharf.
Best time
The warm months and the fall colour weeks; there are no sailings in winter.
How long
Most cruises run between one and three hours, so allow half a day with check-in.
Tips
Arrive 45 minutes before departure, check the Segwun status for the day you want, and book dinner and fall colour sailings early.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Anyone who likes heritage ships and wants to see Lake Muskoka from the water.
- Families
- Children enjoy the engine and deck atmosphere, and shorter cruises suit young attention spans.
- Couples
- A sunset or dinner cruise is the classic Muskoka date, and the fall colour sailings are a close second.
- Pair with
- Walk next door to the Muskoka Discovery Centre, or add Bethune Memorial House in downtown Gravenhurst.
- Time needed
- Half a day including check-in.
Good questions
Does the RMS Segwun sail all year?+
No, cruising is a warm-season activity and the vessels rest over winter. The Segwun is also a historic ship that is restored from time to time, so check her status when the new schedule is published.
Where do the cruises leave from?+
They leave from the wharf at 185 Cherokee Lane in Gravenhurst. The Muskoka Discovery Centre is at 275 Steamship Bay Road nearby.
How early should I arrive?+
The operator asks guests to arrive about 45 minutes before departure to check in and get a boarding pass. Allow a little extra time on busy summer weekends.
Are Segwun cruises more expensive?+
Yes, Segwun fares carry a surcharge on top of the standard fare, plus tax. Check the schedule page for current amounts.
When is the best time to cruise?+
Summer weekends are popular, and the fall colour weeks in late September and October are a favourite. Midweek sailings in shoulder months are usually calmer.
