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Silver Islet Cruise

Stress Free at Silver Islet dockThis small group getaway to Thunder Bay features a motor yacht cruise to historic Silver Islet - around the very tip of the Sleeping Giant. 
 
The cruising excursion begins at Pier 3 on Tuesday or Thursday at the Thunder Bay Marina aboard the motor yacht Stress Free (described below). Travel out along sweeping vistas of the Sleeping Giant, past the Lions Head formation to Silver Islet where you will be treated to a delicious lunch at the historic General Store.  Enjoy a walk through this historic mining townsite, learn about the famous Sea Lion and browse the one-of-a-kind artwork and treasures. Then, enjoy the picturesque scenery and wildlife on the return trip to Thunder Bay.
 
The midweek group getaway also includes a two night stay overlooking Lake Superior and visits to the Thunder Bay Museum which interprets the Silver Islet mining history and to Fort William Historical Park.
 
Package Includes:
  • Silver Islet & Sea Lion2 overnights at Prince Arthur Waterfront Hotel & Suites
    (pool, whirlpool, dining room, lounge)
    Monday/Tuesday overnights or Wednesday/Thursday overnights
  • 6 hour cruise to Silver Islet aboard the 'Stress Free' motor yacht
    (Tuesday or Thursday 10:45 to 5 p.m.)
  • Lunch in Silver Islet at the Tea Room
  • Admissions to:
    Fort William Historical Park
    Thunder Bay Museum
  • Welcome package with area info & maps.

3 days / 2 nights
Available: late June  to Labour Day

 
Cost:  (2008):Cruising by an Elevator
$389 CAN per person Double +5% GST
Note:  A minimum of 3 couples or 6 people are required for this package, max of 10.
 

Deposit & Cancellation Policy:
An $85.00 CAN non-refundable deposit is required to confirm booking. Balance of payment is due 45 days before arrival and is non-refundable unless space can be booked to another party. Transfer to another party is permitted - a $50 administration fee will be charged. Payments accepted by cheque or money order, Visa or M/C.  Pricing is calculated in CAN dollars, any listed US prices are for comparison purposes only – and subject to change according to the exchange rate.

 
Capsule history of Silver Islet
A rich vein of pure silver was discovered on the island near the sleeping giant in 1868. From that day forward, Silver Islet quickly gained the reputation as "The Richest Silver Mine in the World". In 1870, the site was developed by Alexander H. Sibley's Silver Islet Mining Company which built wooden breakwaters around the island to hold back the lake's waves.
Silver Islet mainland houses
The homes originally built to house miners are now used as private summer cottages and the general store has been restored, and serves light meals in its tea-room.  
 
The "Stress Free"
A
41’6” Bayliner 4087 Motoryacht which is Transport Canada inspected and certified for up to 12 passengers plus 2 crew. The Bayliner 4087 is a roomy fly bridge cruiser with four distinct areas -- the aft cockpit, aft deck and bridge (topside) and salon inside. Each provides room for a 1/2 dozen people.

Inside: Smartly designed for maximum use of space, it is a rarity to find a 41foot powerboat with three private staterooms.  With a full sized fridge, three-burner stove/oven combo, microwave and a double stainless sink, this galley is suitably equipped for long and comfortable cruising. Conveniences include a 110 VAC 8kw diesel generator, 3 stereo’s & TV/VCR, refrigerator, electric galley, microwave oven, and of 2 marine heads (toilet).

Outside: The large covered aft sundeck has comfortable seating and, provides both shade from the sun and, protection from the rain, not to mention a great view while underway!  The aft cockpit can be easily accessed by at least one chef (and a couple of assistants) to cook up lunch or dinner on the BBQ. There’s a solid through-transom door that provides easy access to the large swim platform; the coamings that surround it are high enough to ensure plenty of security for children.