Killarney, ON to Benjamin Islands, ON

Outside of Little Current, we encounter a swing bridge. This bridge, built in 1913 and converted from a rail bridge, is the only connection from Manitoulin Island to the mainland. It is 17 1/2 feet off the water but swings open for 15 minutes each hour, on the hour, during daylight hours to allow the North Channel boat traffic to pass. It is close to 11 am, but we don’t wait for the opening. It is a bit snug, but we cruise under and off we go.

We pass by the town of Little Current, ON. It is the largest community on Manitoulin Island. Manitoulin Island is the largest fresh water island in the world and home to 11 lighthouses.

Given the amount of water, the number of Islands, and the scarcity of bridges, another form of transportation, not seen much at home, is used often in these parts. That is the seaplane. We see quite a few landings and takes offs.

We decide to do a cruise by the Benjamin Islands on our way to Gore Bay. Once we see the area, we decide to spend the rest of the day anchored and, given the very light breeze, we spend the night too.

Benjamin Islands are one of the most popular places of the North Channel. There is a North Benjamin Island and a South Benjamin Island. They are formed from beautiful pink granite. Attempts have been made to quarry the granite from the islands and thankfully these plans were thwarted. The islands are skirted by rocks to the southeast known as the Sow and Pigs and the Boars.

We drop our anchor into the clay bottom. The bottom consistency of clay and grass allows for a great anchor set, which makes this a popular anchorage. Other areas, with rock bottoms, are not as conducive for anchoring.

The scenery is gorgeous. Since we have no dinghy, and the water is 64 degrees, we will only view the shoreline from a distance.

As the sun sets, we are no longer alone. Three other boats join our little paradise cove.

As the sun goes down, we grill some steaks and share some wine. It has been a wonderful relaxing day in the Ontario wilderness.

Tomorrow we will be back in the US!