SS Bigwin

Launched in 1925, the SS Bigwin was built for the Bigwin Inn on Bigwin Island, a luxurious resort that attracted the rich and famous. This elegant steamship served as a vital link, transporting guests, luggage, and supplies across Lake of Bays. For decades, it was a symbol of Muskoka's golden age of tourism, carrying passengers like Prime Minister Mackenzie King and Hollywood stars to their lakeside retreats. However, with the decline of the grand hotel era and the rise of personal automobiles, the SS Bigwin's active service diminished. By the late 20th century, the vessel fell into disrepair, becoming a silent relic of a bygone era. A dedicated group of local enthusiasts recognized its historical significance and embarked on a massive restoration project. After years of meticulous work and fundraising, the SS Bigwin was relaunched in 2010, once again gracing the waters of Lake of Bays, offering historical cruises and reminding visitors of Muskoka's opulent past.