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Private Boat Tours to the Flowerpots, The Grotto & Shipwrecks
Experience Tobermory’s most iconic sights from the water — privately, comfortably, and at your own pace
Book Your Private Boat Tour
See Tobermory’s Top Attractions —
Without the Crowds
Our private boat tours are designed around the three most famous sights in Tobermory:
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The Flowerpots at Flowerpot Island
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The Grotto and Cave Point
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Historic shipwrecks
Tours explore Fathom Five National Marine Park in Georgian Bay (part of Lake Huron), as well as the rugged shoreline of Bruce Peninsula National Park, where The Grotto and Cave Point are located.
Everything is viewed from the water, offering unmatched perspectives, fewer people, and a relaxed experience you simply can’t get from shore or large tour boats.
The Flowerpots at Flowerpot Island
(Viewed from the Water)
Flowerpot Island is one of the most photographed locations in Ontario — and for good reason.
On our private tours, we bring you up close to the famous Flowerpots, cruising along the shoreline for clear views, photos, and a deeper appreciation of how these natural rock formations were created.
A unique part of our tour is learning the local legend of how the Flowerpots came to be, shared by your captain as you take in the scenery.
Please note: We do not land on Flowerpot Island. All viewing is done safely and legally from the boat.
The Grotto & Cave Point A View Few People Get
The Grotto is one of Tobermory’s most visited landmarks — but from land, it’s often crowded and rushed.
From the water, you’ll see:
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The turquoise shoreline below the cliffs
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Cave Point’s dramatic rock formations
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Unique angles impossible to experience from above
Viewing The Grotto from a private boat offers a calm, unobstructed, and unforgettable perspective.
Historic Shipwrecks Beneath Clear Water
Tobermory is known as the
“Shipwreck Capital of Canada.”
On calm days, many shipwrecks in Fathom Five are visible beneath the surface thanks to Georgian Bay’s exceptionally clear water. Your captain will point out known wreck sites and share the stories behind them — bringing the history of the area to life.
Why Choose a Private Boat Tour?
A private tour offers a fundamentally better experience than large group boats.
✔ Just you and your group
✔ Flexible routing and relaxed pacing
✔ Close shoreline viewing of all major attractions
✔ Stories, history, and local legends shared throughout
✔ Ideal for families, couples, photographers, and small groups
✔ A safe, comfortable ride with a licensed local captain
This is the most personal way to experience Tobermory from the water.
What You’ll See on a Tour
Every trip is customized based on conditions, but a typical private tour may include:
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The Flowerpots (from the water)
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The Grotto and Cave Point shoreline
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Multiple historic shipwreck sites
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Rugged cliffs, caves, and unique rock formations
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Coastal birdlife common to Georgian Bay
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Incredible photo opportunities throughout
Local Captain. Real Knowledge.
Fathom Five Fishing & Private Tours is locally owned and operated in Tobermory, Ontario. As a Transport Canada–licensed captain with extensive experience navigating Georgian Bay and Lake Huron, safety, professionalism, and local knowledge are always the priority.
I don’t just take people sightseeing — I share the stories, history, and character of this place.
Tour Details
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Departure: Tobermory, Ontario
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Tour Type: Private boat tour (your group only)
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Viewing: All attractions viewed from the water
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Availability: Seasonal, weather dependent
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Group Size: Small groups for comfort and safety
Have questions or special requests? Just ask — private tours are flexible by design.
Ready to Book Your Private Boat Tour?
Availability is limited due to the private nature of our tours.
📍 Tobermory, Ontario
Flowerpots • The Grotto • Shipwrecks • Georgian Bay • Lake Huron
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Contact Us With Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
Do your tours go to Flowerpot Island?
We provide up-close views of the Flowerpots at Flowerpot Island from the water.
We do not land on the island or drop guests off. Viewing from the boat offers excellent photo opportunities without crowds and is done safely and legally.
What are the main sights we will see on the tour?
Our private boat tours focus on Tobermory’s three most iconic attractions:
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The Flowerpots at Flowerpot Island (viewed from the water)
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The Grotto and Cave Point along the Bruce Peninsula shoreline
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Historic shipwrecks in Fathom Five National Marine Park
Routes vary based on conditions, but these highlights are the core of every tour.
Is The Grotto part of Fathom Five National Marine Park?
No. The Grotto and Cave Point are part of Bruce Peninsula National Park, while the shipwrecks and Flowerpot Island are located in Fathom Five National Marine Park.
Our tours allow you to experience both parks from the water, giving you unique perspectives of each.
Where are the tours located?
Tours operate out of Tobermory, exploring Georgian Bay, which is part of Lake Huron.
Do we see wildlife on the tours?
We regularly see coastal birdlife, including seabirds and shoreline species common to Georgian Bay.
While occasional wildlife sightings are possible, our tours focus primarily on scenery, geology, shipwrecks, and iconic landmarks, not wildlife viewing.
Why choose a private boat tour instead of a group tour?
Private tours offer:
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Just your group on the boat
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Flexible pacing and routing
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Better photo opportunities
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A quieter, more relaxed experience
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Personal stories, history, and local legends shared by your captain
It’s the most comfortable and personal way to experience Tobermory from the water.
What makes your Flowerpot tours unique?
In addition to close shoreline views, guests learn the local legend of how the Flowerpots came to be, shared during the tour.
This storytelling element adds meaning and context to one of Tobermory’s most famous landmarks — something large group tours often skip.
Are the tours safe?
Yes. Tours are operated by a Transport Canada–licensed captain with extensive experience navigating Georgian Bay and Lake Huron. Safety equipment and weather conditions are always carefully considered before departure.
How long are the tours?
Tour lengths vary depending on conditions and your interests. Because tours are private, timing is flexible. Contact us to discuss the best option for your group.
Is this tour suitable for kids or seniors?
Yes. Our private boat tours are well suited for families, seniors, and guests who prefer a calm, comfortable ride. If you have specific needs or concerns, we’re happy to discuss them in advance.
What should we bring?
We recommend:
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Weather-appropriate clothing
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Sun protection (hat, sunglasses, sunscreen)
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Camera or phone for photos
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Drinks or light snacks if desired
How do we book a private tour?
You can book directly through our website or contact us with questions. Availability is limited due to the private nature of our tours, so booking in advance is recommended.