QUESTIONS

What should I wear?

What you should wear depends on the time of year you are cruising and the weather on the day of your cruise. It is always wise to bring layers of clothing so you can add layers if you are cool or take layers off if you are warm. Always bring a hat and/or sunscreen to protect yourself from the sun and please remember that the ship does have heat for our early spring and late fall cruises.

How early should we arrive at dockside?

It is best to arrive at dockside one hour before the cruise departs. This will allow you to pick up your tickets and prepare for boarding, which begins twenty minutes prior to your departure time. There is shopping at dockside in a variety of gift shops. Please remember that reserved tickets must be claimed thirty minutes prior to departure or they will be sold off.

Where can we park?

There is ample free parking at dockside.

When can we board the ship?

Boarding begins 20 minutes prior to your departure time.

Where is Parry Sound?

Parry Sound is a beautiful two hours and thirty minutes drive north of Toronto, a two hour drive south of Sudbury and North Bay, and a one hour and fifteen minute drive from Huntsville, Bracebridge and Gravenhurst. Please see our maps for directions to, and within, Parry Sound.

Should we take the morning or afternoon cruise?

Our new morning cruise is two hours long and follows a route that takes passengers through very scenic inner islands and past some beautiful summer retreats. Our afternoon cruise is three hours long takes our traditional route through the pristine outer islands. The morning cruise is usually a little cooler and slightly less busy than the afternoon cruise.

Do you have evening cruises?

There are a number of evening cruises each season in conjunction with the Festival of the Sound, a great jazz and classical music festival. Tickets for these cruises must be booked through the Festival of the Sound. Other evening cruises are available throughout the summer with local churches and organizations who charter the ship.

Is there a senior’s rate?

No.

Is the ship wheelchair accessible?

Yes. The first deck of the ship is entirely wheelchair accessible, as are the washrooms (located on the first deck). The ticket office is wheelchair accessible as well.

Are pets allowed on board?

Pets are discouraged from being taken on board. Pets are only allowed on board if they remain in a kennel provided by the owner.

Is there anything else to do in Parry Sound?

Lots. Please see the links page.

Can you book me a motel/hotel room?

We would prefer if passengers booked their own rooms if they plan on staying overnight. Please remember to book your accommodation early so not to be disappointed. Please see the links page.

Is the Island Queen safe?

Yes. The Island Queen is thoroughly inspected annually by the Canadian Coast Guard. The ship is one of Canada’s newest and most modern cruise ships. We take great pride in the fact that for over 35 years we have enjoyed safely introducing people to Georgian Bay.

What is the best time to come for a Fall Colour Cruise?

The best time to take a Fall Colour Cruise varies from year to year but generally in the last two weeks of September and the first two weeks of October.

Is smoking allowed on board?

No, due to government health and safety regulations and company policy.

Can we bring alcohol on board?

No, due to government health and safety regulations and company policy. All large bags coming aboard will be randomly checked.