Chantry Island Lighthouse Tours

Since the spring of 1859, a fifteen-mile beacon of hope for sailors has been shining brightly from the treacherous shore of Chantry Island. Since the Chantry Island Lighthouse became operational, it has been guiding sailors safely through the waters of Lake Huron off the shores of Southampton. You can relive some of the 151 years of history that is the Chantry Island Lighthouse, by taking a guided tour that will open your eyes to the nautical hardships that the sailors who helped settle this area had to endure.  Additionally, we hope that you will take away an appreciation for times past when the "Highways were the Great Lakes." More than 300,000 hours have been put into the restoration of the Imperial Lighthouse, Keeper’s Quarters and Boathouse on Chantry Island.

For 2010, tours will begin on May 29th running Saturdays and Sundays at 1pm and 3pm until July 1, weather permitting. In the months of June, July and September, scheduled tours run at 1pm and 3pm. In August the scheduled tours run at 9:30am, 1pm and 3pm, 7 days a week. Two tour guides are provided for every excursion. You will journey to Chantry Island on the tour boat “Peerless,” while taking in the breathtaking views of the "Oldest Port on the Bruce Coast" and the mysterious Harbour of Refuge where shipwrecks abound. An impressive view of the shoreline, the island and the famous bird sanctuary may be seen from the top of the 100-foot Imperial Lighthouse, which was built between 1855 and 1859. You will also visit the faithfully restored Keeper’s Quarters, built by the Scottish stonemason, John Brown. Appropriate footwear is mandatory as the terrain on the island is uneven and rocky due to the glacial moraine nature of the island. Children under the supervision of adults are allowed, if they are at least 4 feet tall. No Flip Flops allowed.

Tours book up quickly, therefore it is recommended that you reserve and pay in advance. Last minute guests are welcome if cancellations occur. Tours can be booked by calling 519-797-5862 or toll free 866-797-5862. Tour tickets are $28.25 per person and proceeds are used in the continuing restoration and maintenance of the island. You can also book by visiting the Chantry Island Tour Base on the south side of the mouth of the Saugeen River. The Tour Base is also a well-stocked gift shop for lovers of lighthouses. 

Visit www.chantryisland.com or email chantrytourbase@bmts.com for more information.