Blue Heron Cruise Tobermory with Kids (Is It Worth It?)

If you are planning a trip to Tobermory with kids, you will definitely hear about Blue Heron Cruises. They are one of the main ways to get out on the water in Fathom Five National Marine Park, and their glass-bottom boats are a huge hit with families. Between the shipwrecks, the lighthouses, and those first big views of Flowerpot Island, the boat ride itself feels like part of the adventure.

We were curious if it would really live up to the hype, so we booked a tour with our kids to find out. Here is what the experience was like for our family.

 

Choosing Your Cruise

The first step is figuring out which cruise to take. Both Blue Heron Cruises and Bruce Anchor offer glass-bottom boat tours to Flowerpot Island. We went with Blue Heron, so this guide is based on our experience with them. Here is a quick rundown of their tour options:

1. Flowerpot Island Drop-Off Tour (Our Pick for Families)

This is the one to book if you want to hike on the island. On the way, you will see a shipwreck, two lighthouses, and get that first look at the famous Flowerpots before being dropped off. The ride takes about 45 to 50 minutes, you get around three hours on the island, and then a quick 20-minute ride back. It is just enough time to walk the trails, explore the Flowerpots, and check out the lighthouse. (This is the tour we did and it was perfect with kids.)

2. Stay Aboard Scenic Cruise

If hiking is not in the plans, this one is nice and easy. You stay on the boat the whole time, sailing past the shipwreck, circling Flowerpot Island, and pausing while others hop off. It is a relaxed option if you have toddlers, grandparents, or anyone who just wants to take in the views.

3. Extended Scenic Cruise

This one runs about 90 minutes and covers even more of the park. You still see the shipwreck and Flowerpot Island, plus a few other islands along the way. A good choice if you want more time on the water without doing the hike.

4. Sunset Cruise

Want something really special? The Sunset Cruise glides past the Grotto, Indian Head Cove, and the dramatic cliffs at Cave Point before stopping for one of Georgian Bay’s incredible sunsets. Just note that shipwrecks are not included on this one.

5. Tobermory Jet Boat Tour

This one is all about speed and excitement. The open-air ride zips across Georgian Bay to show you the Flowerpots, lighthouses, and cliffs of the Niagara Escarpment. Older kids and teens usually love it, but it is not ideal for toddlers who might not enjoy the bumps and splashes.

👉 If your goal is to actually set foot on Flowerpot Island, go with the Drop-Off Tour. The other cruises are fun extras if you want more time on the water or are looking for something different on another day.

 

Our Family Experience

We chose the Flowerpot Island Drop-Off Tour, which is the most popular option for families. The cruise is about 45 to 50 minutes, and on the way you get to see a real shipwreck, plus two lighthouses, before arriving at the island. Our kids were totally hooked on the glass floor. They loved standing over the panels, pointing out the beams of the shipwreck, and imagining pirates even though it was just an old schooner.

Getting on board was easy, but parking in Tobermory can be tricky. The Blue Heron lots are not right next to the dock, so we arrived early and walked over, which worked out fine. Once we were on the boat, there was lots of space to move around. The kids switched between looking down through the glass floor and running over to the outside deck to check out the views.

The ride was the perfect length. It felt like an adventure without dragging on, and the kids never got bored. Between the turquoise water, the excitement of the shipwreck, and that first glimpse of the Flowerpots from the deck, the cruise was already a highlight before we even set foot on the island.

 

Pros and Cons for Families

What we loved:

• The glass-bottom floor is such a hit with kids. It keeps them entertained the whole way and makes the ride feel special.
• The ride is the right length for families. At around 45 to 50 minutes, it feels like a real adventure without being too long.
• You see a lot in a short time. Between the shipwreck, the lighthouses, and the first look at Flowerpot Island, there is always something new to point out.
• The staff were friendly and made boarding easy, even with excited kids in tow.

What to keep in mind:

• Parking in Tobermory can be a bit of a headache. The lots are not right next to the dock, so build in extra time to park and walk.
• Cruises only run if the weather is safe. Strong winds or storms can cause delays or cancellations, so it is always good to have a backup plan.
• If you are continuing on to Flowerpot Island, remember there are no food services except for limited snacks at the lighthouse. Bring your own picnic so no one gets hangry.
• For toddlers or babies, the glass-bottom might not hold their attention as much. Carriers are easier than strollers if you plan to hike once you get to the island.

 

So, Is It Worth It?

For our family, the answer is definitely yes. The Blue Heron Cruise was one of the highlights of our Tobermory trip. The kids absolutely loved the glass floor and spotting the shipwreck, and the ride length was just right for their attention span. By the time we reached Flowerpot Island, they were already buzzing with excitement.

It is not the cheapest outing, and you do have to plan around parking and weather, but the experience is unique and memorable. If your kids are old enough to enjoy looking through the glass floor and take in the scenery, we would say around age four and up, it is absolutely worth it. Pair it with time on Flowerpot Island and you have the perfect family adventure on Georgian Bay.