Georgian Bay’s 30,000 Islands have a fascinating beginning.
The 30,000 Islands of Georgian Bay represent the world’s largest freshwater archipelago. Part of the Canadian Shield, the islands are thought to be the eroded roots of an ancient mountain range called the Grenville Mountains. Although our cruises only explore a portion of the roots of these mountains, passengers will see enough to challenge their imaginations.
The Georgian Bay Biosphere Reserve is an honored designation.
The granite-sculpted shorelines of the islands, exposed by the glaciers at the end of the last ice age, and the windswept white pine forests that adorn the islands, create numerous distinct habitats that support a variety of both well-known and rare species including plants, mammals, birds, reptiles and amphibians. The uniqueness of the island ecosystem earned the area World Biosphere Reserve status from the United Nations in 2004. One of the highlights of both our two and three-hour cruise, the “Hole in the Wall,” is one of the Georgian Bay Biosphere Reserve’s “Amazing Places.” To learn more about the other Amazing Places visit www.visitamazingplaces.ca.
Georgian Bay is rich history and culture.
Archeological records reveal long-standing Aboriginal settlements along the mainland and islands of Georgian Bay. In fact, descendants of these historic Aboriginal settlements still live and thrive in the area today. Early explorers such as Samuel de Champlain travelled among the islands and eventually opened the area up to commercial trading in furs and lumber and eventually shipping and tourism.