RMS Segwun: A Legendary Muskoka Steamship

The RMS Segwun is a legendary Muskoka steamship that has been delighting passengers for over 50 years. It's one of the oldest and most iconic ships on Lake Muskoka.

Built in 1887, the Segwun has undergone several restorations to maintain its original charm. Its wooden hull has been preserved to keep its classic look and feel.

The Segwun operates as a cruise ship, offering scenic tours of the Muskoka lakes. It's a popular tourist attraction in the summer months.

Muskoka Steamships played a significant role in the region's history, dating back to the first steamship, Wenonah, which set sail on Lake Muskoka in 1866.

These vessels revolutionized transportation in Muskoka, connecting people and communities for nearly 100 years. They carried mail, goods, and travelers, shaping the lifestyle of islanders.

Steamships like Wenonah provided essential services to the growing corner of Canada, including transporting mail.

The RMS Segwun is a historic ship that's been sailing the Muskoka lakes for over a century. It's the last remaining vessel of the original fleet to navigate through the lakes.

Built in Glasgow, Scotland in 1887, the ship was originally named Nippising. It was later renamed Segwun in 1925, which is an Ojibwa word for "springtime".

The ship's maiden voyage under its new name took place on July 9th, 1925, and it quickly became the fastest steamship on the surrounding lakes.

Muskoka's rich history began with the introduction of steamships, with Wenonah being the first to set sail on Lake Muskoka in 1866.

These vessels played a crucial role in connecting the community and facilitating transportation, trade, and tourism for nearly a century. They carried mail, goods, and travelers, shaping the region's lifestyle and economy.

The steamships continued to thrive in the late 19th and 20th centuries, providing essential services to islanders and supporting the growth of Muskoka's lodging businesses, including iconic resorts like Severn Lodge.

The RMS Segwun, a historic steamship in Gravenhurst, faced a precarious situation due to an unprecedented snowfall that caused the vessel to list precariously.

On December 1, Gravenhurst received 140 centimetres of snow, which accumulated on the ship's deck and pushed its steel hull below the waterline.

The immense weight of the snow caused the Segwun to tilt, and it began to fill with water. Fortunately, the shallow water depth where it was docked prevented it from sinking too deep.

A diverse coalition of responders, including the Gravenhurst Fire Department, staff from Muskoka Steamships, local volunteers, and a nearby property maintenance company, worked together to rescue the ship.

The rescue effort took four hours, with five staff members, five volunteers, and three firefighters shovelling off the snow from the Segwun's decks.

Thanks to swift action, the ship was stabilized, and no severe damage occurred. The incident highlighted the importance of acting quickly in similar situations.

A full inspection will follow once conditions improve, but the initial assessment suggests that any damage is superficial.

Muskoka's history is rich and fascinating, and one of the most significant events was the arrival of the first steamship, Wenonah, in 1866. This marked the beginning of a new era in transportation and communication in the region.

Wenonah was the first of several dozen steamships that played a crucial role in shaping Muskoka's lifestyle and economy. They transported mail, goods, and travelers, connecting the islanders and neighboring cities.

The steamships continued to serve Muskoka for nearly 100 years, providing essential services and supporting the growth of the region. One of the most iconic steamships, Segwun, was restored in 1972 and put back into service in 1981, earning it the title of 'Best Large Attraction' by Attractions Canada in 2001 and 2002.

Segwun still proudly maintains its Canada Post 'R.M.S.' designation as an official Royal Mail Ship, a testament to its historic significance.

RMS Segwun offers a variety of sightseeing excursions, perfect for taking in the beautiful scenery of the area.

You can choose from short sightseeing excursions, which are a great way to get a feel for the surroundings.

Lunch cruises are also available, providing a delicious meal while you take in the views.

Sunset dinner cruises are a wonderful way to cap off the day, with a romantic atmosphere and a great meal.

The Navigation Company's ship Segwun underwent significant remodeling in 1946-7. The gentleman's lounge and two staterooms were removed from the upper deck.

A new series of seven carpeted staterooms were added in their place, connected to the forward oak-paneled lounge. This renovation increased the ship's capacity.

The open space just aft of the stack on the upper deck was closed in during the remodel. This change gave the ship a more streamlined look.

The crew sleeping area was created by installing a new steel bulkhead salvaged from the ship Medora in the forward hold. This upgrade improved living conditions for the crew.

The changes made to Segwun during this remodel finalized the ship's silhouette, which remains the same to this day.

The refit process is a crucial part of maintaining a ship's safety and functionality.

In 1949, a fire broke out on the SS Noronic, resulting in between 118 and 139 deaths due to inadequate fire alarms and firefighting equipment.

The Muskoka Lakes Lines, owner of Segwun and other steamships, lacked the resources to re-fit their entire fleet after the fire.

Segwun, however, was fitted with new hoses and hydrants for the 1950 season.

The Ministry of Transport imposed new fire control requirements on steamships in the aftermath of the SS Noronic fire.

Segwun now offers various excursions, including short sightseeing trips and sunset dinner cruises.

These excursions provide a unique way to experience the beauty of the area.

You can enjoy lunch on a cruise, taking in the sights and sounds of the surrounding waters.

Segwun is owned and operated by a registered charity, Muskoka Steamships and Discovery Centre.

RMS Segwun was honored by Canada Post in 1987 with a commemorative stamp. The stamp was part of a series celebrating the 1987 centennial of Gravenhurst, Ont.

A framed enlarged copy of the stamp can be found in the lobby of the Administration Offices of the District Municipality of Muskoka.

The commemorative stamp was one of four issued to mark the occasion.

RMS Segwun is a popular tourist attraction in Muskoka, Ontario, and for good reason. It's a beautifully restored 19th-century steamship that offers a unique and memorable experience.

The ship's elegant design and rich history make it a must-see for anyone interested in maritime history. With its gleaming brass fixtures and intricate woodwork, you'll feel like you've stepped back in time.

One of the best parts of cruising on RMS Segwun is the stunning scenery of Muskoka Lake. The ship's route takes you through picturesque coves and inlets, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.

You can choose from a variety of cruise options, including daytime and evening cruises, to suit your schedule and preferences. Whether you're looking for a relaxing afternoon on the water or a romantic evening cruise, RMS Segwun has got you covered.

The ship's knowledgeable crew will share stories and insights about the history and ecology of the area, adding depth and context to your experience. They'll also be happy to answer any questions you may have.

As you cruise along, keep an eye out for the ship's impressive steam engine, which is still in operation today. It's a remarkable piece of engineering that's been beautifully restored to its former glory.