Tobermory 1-Day Bus Tour: Shipwrecks, Flowerpot Island & Small-Town Charm

A Full Day of Adventure in Ontario’s North

Ready to trade the city for turquoise waters and fresh lake air? Join us on a full-day bus tour to Tobermory, one of Ontario’s most beautiful and unique destinations.

This trip packs small-town charm, a famous glass-bottom boat cruise, and an afternoon on Flowerpot Island - all without you having to plan a single thing.

Early Morning Departure

We’ll start the day with two convenient pickup points in Toronto. Ontario is huge, and Tobermory is about 4 hours north of the city. To make the most of our time, we’ll leave the last pickup at around 7:30 AM.

The ride is comfortable and relaxed, with restroom breaks every 2 hours. Our drivers follow strict safety rules, so this itinerary is carefully planned to fit within their 12-hour driving limit.

We’ve prepared lunch ahead of time, so you can enjoy your meal right in Tobermory before we board our cruise.

Exploring Tobermory Town

Our first stop is the charming village of Tobermory. It’s small but full of character, with shops worth a quick visit:

• Reader’s Haven Book Shop - Books, gifts, and souvenirs.

• The Sweet Shop - Candy, ice cream, and nostalgic treats.

• Golden Gallery - Local art and photography.

• Mariner Chart Shop - Tobermory shirts, maps, stickers, and more.

You’ll have a bit of time to wander the harbor, take photos, and breathe in that clear, fresh air before the cruise.

Glass Bottom Boat Cruise & Shipwreck Viewing

At 12:15 PM, we’ll board our Bruce Anchor Cruises glass-bottom boat. On the way to Flowerpot Island, we’ll pass directly over the Sweepstakes Schooner shipwreck - a well-preserved wooden sailing vessel resting just below the surface in Big Tub Harbour.

Built in 1867, the Sweepstakes sank in 1885, and its intact hull makes it one of the most photographed shipwrecks in the Great Lakes. Through the glass floor or from the deck, the view is crystal-clear.

The cruise also passes:

• Big Tub Lighthouse - Standing watch since 1885.

• Devil Island Channel - Scenic and narrow waterways.

• Views of Flowerpot Island - Your next destination.

Afternoon on Flowerpot Island

The ferry ride from Tobermory to Flowerpot Island takes about an hour. Along the way, we’ll enjoy more shipwreck views before docking.

Flowerpot Island is famous for its two towering rock formations - shaped by thousands of years of wind and waves. Here you can:

• Hike the 4 km of trails through rugged landscapes.

• Explore caves and coastal lookouts.

• Visit the historic lighthouse and light station.

• Snap unforgettable photos of the “flowerpots.”

We’ll explore until 3:30 PM. It’s important to be at the ferry pickup point on time so we can return to Tobermory, board the bus, and head back to Toronto.

The Ride Back

After a day of fresh air and exploring, you can relax on the return trip. We’ll aim to be back in Toronto by evening, all while following our driver’s legal hours.

What to Bring

• Warmer layers (it’s cooler on the water)

• Rain jacket, just in case

• Comfortable walking shoes

• Hat and sunglasses

• Fully charged phone with space for photos and videos

Tobermory is a place you need to see at least once. With shipwrecks, crystal waters, and a picture-perfect island, this 1-day trip gives you the best it has to offer - without the stress of planning.

Seats are limited, so book yours now and get ready for an unforgettable day.