Step aboard a glass bottom boat in Tobermory and watch Georgian Bay’s famously clear water turn into a living museum beneath your feet. Through broad, tempered-glass panels, ribs of old timbers appear in emerald light while limestone headlands sweep by above the rail.
Since 2011, Bruce Anchor Cruises has paired that wow-factor with a friendly, family feel, with live commentary that shares stories and safety in equal measure, and a crew that treats every sailing like it’s a first impression.
Planning a peak-season adventure? Consider locking in seats on the popular Flowerpot Island cruise early.
A Front-Row Seat to Ontario’s Underwater History
Our routes focus on the two showstoppers of Big Tub Harbour, the Sweepstakes and the City of Grand Rapids, chosen for their shallow depths and exceptional visibility. It’s a protected playground where clear water, careful stewardship, and responsible operators keep history within easy view.
Sweepstakes (1885)
Beneath the glass, you’ll spot the schooner’s outline, windlass, and rail details, astonishingly intact for a 19th-century wooden vessel. Built in Burlington in 1867, Sweepstakes struck bottom near Cove Island in August 1885 and was later towed to Big Tub, where she sank in September. Today she rests in shallow water, perfect for glass-bottom viewing when the sun is high.
Check out this interactive 3D model of the Sweepstakes!
City of Grand Rapids (1907)
A very different scene: a passenger steamer that burned at the dock was towed out and scuttled in the harbour. What remains are scattered timbers and structures that form striking patterns from above, an ideal contrast to Sweepstakes’ silhouette.
Check out this interactive 3D model of the City of Grand Rapids!
As you float over these sites, remember you’re in a nationally protected area, so take only photos and enjoy from the boat while conservation rules keep this window to the past clear for future visitors. For safety and access updates within Big Tub Harbour, Parks Canada maintains current notices.
Curious about the boats that make these views possible? Take a look at our fleet to preview sightlines and layouts.
Route Highlights: Flowerpot Island and The Grotto
Cliffs, coves, and light stations frame the ride, with panoramas from the open decks to match your glass-floor moments. You choose the day’s pace:
- Stay aboard for a scenic cruise that circles the shoreline and shipwrecks (cruise fare only).
- Disembark on Flowerpot Island to explore trails, turquoise coves, and the iconic sea stacks.
- A Parks Canada landing fee applies, and the island is accessible by boat only. Our cruises double as your Flowerpot Island ferry.
Leaders of Low Emissions
A recent addition to our fleet includes Eclipse, the first IMO Tier 4, three-tier passenger vessel built in Canada. It is engineered for up to ~70% fewer emissions in its class, a demonstration of real stewardship inside a national marine park, without compromising comfort or sightlines.
Timing, Seasons, and Smart Packing
For calmer water and softer light, morning and late-day sailings are favourites. Spring and fall bring relaxed docks and golden photography; midsummer buzz is balanced by frequent departures. We recommend packing:
- Layers
- Sun protection
- Non-slip footwear
- A camera (with a polarizing filter if you have one)
Strollers and mobility aids are common sights on board; our crew is happy to help. Please allow a buffer for parking and check-in, and give the wind forecast a glance before you go.
After your cruise, extend the day with easy shore add-ons from Activities in Tobermory: A Complete Guide.
Stay Steps From the Action: Bruce Anchor Motel & Cottages
Make mornings effortless and sunsets simple by staying near the docks at Bruce Anchor Motel & Cottages. Rooms and cottages fit families, couples, and small groups, so you can roll out of bed and stroll to your sailing, or wander back after golden-hour views, for a truly low-stress Tobermory escape.
Clear Water, Clearer Memories
Schooner ribs below, limestone horizons ahead, and that easygoing, glass-bottom vantage in between, Bruce Anchor cruises deliver Tobermory water tours that feel both adventurous and effortless. Ready when you are.
Book your cruise today!
