Chantry Island Lighthouse Tour

The Chantry Island Lighthouse Tour offers one of the most memorable heritage and boating experiences along Ontario’s Lake Huron coastline. Departing from Southampton Harbour, the guided tour transports visitors by boat to Chantry Island, home to the historic Imperial Tower Lighthouse and one of the region’s most significant bird sanctuaries. Built in 1859, the Chantry Island Lighthouse played a vital role in Great Lakes shipping navigation and remains an iconic symbol of Southampton’s maritime history. Visitors participating in the tour can explore the lighthouse grounds, restored keeper’s cottage, interpretive exhibits, and shoreline walking areas while learning about shipwrecks, lighthouse operations, and local heritage stories from knowledgeable guides. Because Chantry Island is also a federally protected migratory bird sanctuary, visitor access is carefully managed to preserve nesting habitats for herons, cormorants, and other bird species. The boat ride itself provides excellent views of the Southampton shoreline, Lake Huron beaches, and the Saugeen River mouth. Sunset cruises and evening departures are especially popular during peak summer tourism months. The tour is a standout activity for families, photographers, history enthusiasts, and cottage renters vacationing along the Bruce County shoreline. Reservations are highly recommended during July and August due to strong visitor demand.