MS Chi-Cheemaun Returns to Owen Sound Harbour for Celebration

The iconic MS Chi-Cheemaun is set to return to the Owen Sound Harbour on September 25, 2023, marking the end of another successful sailing season. The ferry, which has become a staple of the region, is expected to arrive at the west wall of the harbour around 16:00. Community members are invited to gather and celebrate the occasion.

Residents are encouraged to bring noisemakers, flags, and pom-poms to create an atmosphere of excitement as the waterfront transforms into a vibrant display of sound and colour. In a press release, Ontario Ferries emphasized the festive spirit of the event, inviting everyone to participate in this cherished local tradition.

To further enhance the celebration, the renowned Owen Sound City Band will perform a concert from 15:30 to 16:30, welcoming the ferry’s arrival with music. This event not only marks the end of the sailing season but also serves as a gathering point for the community, reinforcing the bonds among residents.

Since its launch in 1974, the MS Chi-Cheemaun has completed an impressive 24,000 voyages between Tobermory and Manitoulin Island. Over the years, it has carried more than 10 million passengers and transported 3 million vehicles, according to a news release from the Owen Sound Transportation Company.

As the ferry prepares for its seasonal farewell, the event symbolizes not only the end of a successful year but also the spirit of togetherness that defines the Owen Sound community. This celebration is a testament to the enduring popularity of the MS Chi-Cheemaun and its significance in the region’s transportation network.