Paddling
in Tobermory
Sea kayaking along the Georgian Bay shoreline, sheltered harbour paddling in Little Tub and Big Tub harbours, and guided trips through Fathom Five National Marine Park. Crystal-clear water over shipwrecks and along the escarpment cliffs.
Fog navigation skills required; warm layers a must; slow pace recommended
The Prep
Tobermory's Georgian Bay coast offers some of the clearest water in the Great Lakes - you can see the bottom 10+ metres down. Kayakers paddle along the base of the escarpment cliffs, over shallow shipwrecks, and around the islands of Fathom Five. The harbour is sheltered and calm, but open Georgian Bay can build significant waves with northwest winds. Guided tours are recommended for first-timers. Several outfitters in the village offer kayak and SUP rentals plus guided tours from May through October.
"Check AER conditions before you head out. Air quality and weather can shift quickly — especially during wildfire season and summer smog events."
Must Haves
- PFD (mandatory - Ontario law requires one per person)
- Spray skirt for sea kayaking on Georgian Bay (waves can build quickly)
- Dry bag for valuables - the water is clear but cold
Pro Tips
- Guided tours are recommended if you haven't paddled Georgian Bay before - conditions change fast
- Book guided shipwreck kayak tours in advance for July and August
- Wetsuit or drysuit for early and late season - water temperature stays cold into July
Need Gear?
Rentals are available nearby for this activity.
The Locations
Little Tub Harbour (Shipwreck Paddle)
Sheltered harbour paddle in downtown Tobermory. The Sweepstakes and the City of Grand Rapids - two 19th-century schooners - are visible in the clear water of Big Tub Harbour. Calm, protected water suitable for beginners and SUP. Rentals available from Thorncrest Outfitters and other operators on the harbour. Glass-bottom boat tours cover the same wrecks if you prefer not to paddle.
Georgian Bay Shoreline (Guided Sea Kayak)
Guided sea kayaking along the base of the escarpment cliffs on Georgian Bay. Paddle past sea caves, overhangs, and turquoise coves. Some tours reach the Grotto from the water - a perspective most hikers never see. Half-day and full-day guided trips available from Tobermory outfitters. Open water - waves can build with northwest winds. Intermediate skill level recommended for unguided trips.
Flowerpot Island (Day Paddle)
Kayak from Tobermory harbour to Flowerpot Island in Fathom Five National Marine Park. ~5 km crossing of open Georgian Bay water - for experienced paddlers only. Strong currents and boat traffic in the harbour channel. The reward is landing at Beachy Cove with the sea stacks and hiking the island trail. Check weather and wind forecasts before attempting - the crossing is exposed. Alternatively, take a glass-bottom boat tour to see the island and wrecks without the open-water crossing.
Local Etiquette
- 1
PFD required at all times
Ontario law and Parks Canada regulations both require lifejackets
- 2
Check Georgian Bay wind forecast before paddling
northwest winds build significant waves quickly
- 3
Register with the harbour master if paddling to Flowerpot Island or beyond the harbour
- 4
Do not touch or disturb shipwrecks
they are protected under the Ontario Heritage Act
- 5
Respect boat traffic in the harbour channel
ferries and tour boats have right of way
The Après Strategy
Craft beer and pub food overlooking Little Tub Harbour. Try the Shipwreck IPA.
Operator Network
Local operators offering paddling experiences in the Tobermory area. Verified businesses rooted in the region.
Grand River Rafting Co.
Specializing in scenic paddling trips and educational river tours since 2005.