There are three ways to get onto Manitoulin Island; the conventional driving route through highway 6 that leads to the world famous swing bridge, the MS Chi-Cheemaun (Ojibwe for “big Canoe”) from May to October– which makes many daily trips between Tobermory and South Baymouth, and by the two airports, one located in Gore Bay as well as the Manitoulin East Municipal Airport (CYEM).
Drive
To reach Manitoulin from Southern Ontario, take 400N to Highway 69N and then West at Sudbury on Highway 17. Travel Highway 17 until you get to the Espanola turn-off. Turn left onto Highway 6 and follow this highway until you reach the Swing Bridge in Little Current. Cross the Bridge and you are here! *Please remember that this single lane bridge opens for 15 minutes on the hour during the Summer months from dusk to dawn. *
Ferry
From May to October, the M.S. Chi-Cheemaun connects Tobermory, on the tip of the Bruce Pennisula with South Baymouth, here on Manitoulin Island. The 1 hour and 45 minute ferry crossing is not just a link to the world's largest freashwater island, but a short cut to and from Northern Ontario- alleviating a long drive around Georgian Bay. The 50 kilometer trip is also intiguing on its own right, and can be enjoyed on a Sunset Dinner Cruise features on the last sail of the day.
For more information visit www.ontarioferries.com or call 1-800-265-3163.
Fly
Private pilots and charter flights can use the Manitoulin East Municipal Airport (CYEM) located close to Ten Mile Point, located at 12917 Hwy 6 between Sheguiandah and Manitowaning and Latitude N45 50 39, Longitude W81 51 29 and Elevation 869. This airport offers a 3,500'x100' foot paved runway with lighting, aviation fuels, radio communications and ample aircraft parking. For more information contact the Airport at (705) 859-3009 or email meairport@eastlink.ca