About Us

 

The Success Story

To follow the story of the Muskoka Lakes Navigation Company from the re-sail of the Segwun after refurbishing in 1981 to present day, is a tale of unprecedented growth, success and achievement. It's a story of the Segwun proudly plying the lakes and representing the elegance, style and heritage of Muskoka's past and it's a tale of Segwun today having earned a reputation as an Ontario tourism icon.


With a sailing season of just 145 days, present day Segwun welcomes passengers on board from around the world. From her scenic Lunch and Millionaires Row Cruises to the ever-popular Sunset Dinner Cruises, Segwun's coal-fired engines work harder today than they did more than a hundred years ago. Combined with private charters, our "crown jewel" fills to capacity at 99 passengers and graces all three of the Muskoka lakes in true Segwun style. Photographs of the Segwun outweigh any other in the region, proving that she is the recognized symbol of Muskoka with many believing that her haunting whistle sounds out as the official "heartbeat" which awakens the region each Spring.


Recognition of the Segwun only escalated. As the sole survivor of the fleet, she continues to hold status with Canada Post as an official "Royal Mail Ship" and is granted permission to feature her private label wine throughout Ontario by the L.C.B.O. The Ministry of Tourism validated this success, with numerous ads promoting the Segwun's significance as North America's oldest operating steamship. In 2001 & 2002, the Segwun was voted Best Large Attraction by Attractions Canada.


With demand for cruises increasing, there was a vision for a sister ship. In May of 2002, the Segwun was joined by Wenonah II ensuring that the Muskoka lakes would be serviced for future generations. Built with all the style of a 1907 Muskoka vessel, Wenonah II combines turn-of-the-century charm with modern conveniences including air-conditioning and an elevator. With a capacity of 200 passengers, Wenonah II could now accommodate larger weddings and corporate events and also be positioned as an exclusive venue for social & corporate entertaining. With ample facilities for live entertainment, Wenonah II can also enhance the traditional sailing schedule with themed events including Dinner & Dance Cruises.


Maintaining the precedent for growth and excellence, 2006 marked the grand opening of Muskoka Boat & Heritage Centre.  Voted as one of Canada’s most exciting new attractions, the Heritage Centre unfolds in over 20,000 square feet of dynamic and state-of-the-art exhibits.  Offering an interactive experience for visitors that is unrivaled anywhere in the region, the Centre provides a glimpse into the unique aspects of Muskoka life that has attracted millions of visitors and spawned countless memories. The exhibits capture the glory of the Muskoka experience, exploring the rich history of steamships, wooden boats and luxury hotels that helped define our region. Muskoka Boat & Heritage Centre showcases the true spirit of the beloved lakes, which has captivated countless people for generations.


The extraordinary success of the Segwun, Wenonah II and the Muskoka Boat & Heritage Centre each season is in part due to the longstanding support received from Muskoka residents, cottagers and many resort partners who loyally promote the cruise experience as a "must do" when visiting the region. As valued partners of the Muskoka Lakes Navigation Company, owners and operators in the tourism sector are held in the highest regard with their support ensuring that the ships will thrive & flourish for future generations.
Whether cruising for a day or afternoon, quite simply... a cruise aboard the Segwun or Wenonah II is a magical Muskoka experience not to be missed.



Did you know?

  • The R.M.S. Segwun continues to be recognized by Canada Post as a "Royal Mail Ship" and that mail can be hand-franked or cancelled from the ship as they did more than 100 years ago.
  • In 1974, the Segwun was recommissioned by Prime Minister Pierre Elliott Trudeau.
  • In 1996, the Wanda III Steam Yacht was recommissioned by Prime Minister Jean Chretien.
  • The Segwun's coal comes all the way from Kentucky.
  • Muskoka Boat & Heritage Centre opened in 2006 and celebrates Muskoka's steamship era, grand resorts and hotels and the region's rich boat-building history.
  • Wenonah II is Canada's newest passenger vessel combining turn-of-the-century charm with modern conveniences such as air-conditioning and an on board elevator.
  • The Muskoka Boat & Heritage Centre is home to North America's largest in-water display of antique and classic boats.
  • The ship's private label wine is one of the few given permission by the LCBO to be sold in stores throughout Ontario.
  • In 2001 and 2002, the Segwun won the award of "Best Large Attraction" by Attractions Canada.
  • In 1988, the Segwun won the prestigious "Phoenix Award" presented by the Society of American Travel Writers.  Recipients are chosen for their outstanding efforts in preservation and conservation.
  • In years past, a steamship purser used to take tickets as passengers boarded.  Today, our Purser is responsible for all guest services on board including your dining experience.
  • The Segwun used to carry passengers, freight and mail to a variety of ports on the Muskoka lakes before the days of the automobile.
  • Each year, the Segwun and Wenonah II host upwards of 30 memorable wedding ceremonies and receptions.