Plan To Explore Flowerpot Island From Tobermory in Ontario
On our stay in Port Elgin on Lake Huron, we headed off for a day trip to explore Flowerpot Island from Tobermory. We were glad we booked a tour that dropped us off on the island. This gave us a close-up view of the flowerpots. And provided us with a great hike along the coast.
Heading To Tobermory For The Day
From our stay in Port Elgin on Lake Huron it was about a 90 minute drive to Tobermory. We missed Tobermory on our last visit to Owen Sound and Georgian Bay. On this visit, we knew that we would not have enough time to see and do all that Tobermory had to offer. But we had one thing booked before we headed that way.
We drove north of Sauble Beach and out along the Bruce Peninsula to Tobermory. Tobermory was lovely small port town. The Niagara Escarpment and the Bruce Trail run right out to Tobermory. On many of our trips around the Great Lakes in Ontario we explored the Niagara Escarpment and the Bruce Trail. So we were excited to visit another part.
As we drove along we passed the Bruce Peninsula National Park. This was the entrance to the Grotto. It was a 45 minute hike from the parking lot to these intricate cave structures in the ancient limestone. We sadly knew we would not have enough time to visit on this trip. And we later learned we needed a confirmed reservation for the 4 hour parking slot to visit.
Next time we explore Flowerpot Island from Tobermory we will plan in advance and make sure we don’t miss the Grotto.
Getting Ready For Our Trip With Bruce Anchor Cruises
We found different cruise companies that went to Flowerpot Island from Tobermory. There were two different cruise options. We could stay onboard and cruise around Flowerpot Island. Or we could disembark and explore the island before re-boarding to return to the Tobermory dock.
We checked out the weather forecast to pick the right day to visit Flowerpot Island. When we booked our tickets two days before we wanted to go, the time slots to the island were a bit limited on both cruise lines. But we managed to get a morning slot to the island with a return early in the afternoon with Bruce Anchor Cruises. This gave us about 3 hours to explore Flowerpot Island.
When we entered the town we found the office for Bruce Anchor Cruises and picked up our tickets. We parked the car and took the shuttle down to the dock. While we waited for our boarding time, we watched the different cruise companies out on the water. Off on the point we saw the Big Tub Lighthouse.
Bruce Anchor Cruises operated two boats. We went to the island on the smaller Explorer boat. And came back on the larger Evolution boat with a large open top deck.
The skies overhead were grey and not what the weather forecast predicted. But we hoped the wind would take away the clouds before we got to Flowerpot Island.
Cruising From Tobermory Through the Fathom Five National Marine Park
Tobermory is known as the premier scuba diving capital of Canada. The Fathom Five National Marine Park was home to more than 20 shipwrecks. The park covered 116 square kilometres and included a chain of 19 islands. Sheer cliffs and huge caves were found above and below the turquoise waters. A scuba divers dream topography!
One of the treats for the trip to Flowerpot Island was to cruise slowly down Big Tub Harbour. From the boat we saw the remains of the 119 feet-long hull of the Canadian schooner Sweepstakes underwater. This schooner sunk in 1885. We were amazed when we saw how much of the wreck was almost completely intact.
While the boat had a glass bottom over a small area, it was not really easy to see through the glass with the reflections from above. We got much better views over the side of the boat.
There was another wreck in the harbour that we did not see on our cruise. The “The City of Grand Rapids” was an elegant passenger steamer that burned and sank in October 1907. It was also possible to kayak over the wrecks in this spot. But we simply ran out of time.
We went slowly back out Big Tub Harbour and past the Big Tub Lighthouse. This lighthouse was originally lit in 1885 and was still active today.
When we left the harbour we headed off to explore Flowerpot Island from Tobermory.
Hiking To Explore Flowerpot Island From Tobermory
We got our first view of Flowerpot Island as the ship cruised by. We saw the bright red buildings at the Lightstation. The Large Flowerpot and the Small Flowerpot were easily identified. These uniquely shaped rock pillars looked a bit like a flower pot. From the water got a clear view of the steep cliffs along the shoreline and the cave high in the rocks.
The boat landed at Beachy Cove. From this point there were several different paths available. We chose the path along the shoreline to the flowerpots and then on to the lighthouse. Our path back depended on how slowly we moved along the coast.
While it was still cloudy when we landed, in no time at all the skies cleared. We started on the boardwalk and got a close up view of the crystal clear blue green waters and the rocky shoreline. As we moved onto the path through the woods, we soon saw that the path would not be a totally easy walk. We navigated along rocky and rooted paths.
Exploring The Flowerpots On Flowerpot Island
We found several narrow openings that led out to the flowerpots. The ragged rocks required some thought to traverse. But we made our way out on the rocks and moved along the shore from the Small Flowerpot to the Large Flowerpot.
It was stunning to see these gigantic rock structures up close. We saw the different cruise company boats as they drew close to the island. And even saw a small plane enjoying the view from above.
Explore Flowerpot Island from Tobermory and enjoy the beach views. It was hard to believe the crystal clear blue green waters were not in some tropical spot. We saw many people swimming from the rocky beaches. On a longer stay on Flowerpot Island we would pack our snorkel masks and explore the great rocky shores.
Heading To The Lightstation On Flowerpot Island
We moved along the shore and past the rock beach. There was a sign that pointed to the cave we saw from the water. Stairs went up the to the viewing platform at the cave.
The path went up and then down as it weaved towards the lighthouse. We arrived at the Lightstation and then we followed the final path to the lighthouse. The views along the coast at this point were lovely. We were disappointed that this was not the traditional lighthouse we expected.
We made a final stop at the Lightstation. There was a small shop for refreshments and a museum to visit. We settled in for short break and a relaxing view.
When we checked our watch we saw we had used 2 of the 3 hours we had on Flowerpot Island. We were not sure how long it would take to continue along the Loop Trail back to the boat dock. The views from the higher path might be stunning. But we ultimately decided to re-trace our path. But without the long stops along the shore.
We made it back to the boat dock with 15 minutes to spare. We made sure we took all our garbage off the island. And hit the bathroom before we got on the boat.
For A Real Treat Explore Flowerpot Island From Tobermory in Ontario
It was a short boat ride back to the dock in Tobermory with no real sightseeing stops. Off in the distance Middle Island was pointed out.
Once we were back on land, we picked up the car and went into town in the Little Tub Harbour. We found lots of spots for a quick snack. Of course we had to try the local Stella’s gelato. But we knew we had a long drive back. So we did not dawdle long in town on this visit.
We were so glad we planned to explore Flowerpot Island from Tobermory. A cruise around the island might have been nice. But on a hike around Flowerpot Island we saw so much more.
The transit from our stay in Port Elgin took us over 3 hours. So this limited the amount of time we had to explore the area around Tobermory. Next time we will plan to stay in Tobermory and spend a few days to enjoy all this great spot has to offer.
Did you explore Flowerpot Island from Tobermory? What other great things did you do in the Tobermory area?
Copyright Notice: All material on this travel blog site is the sole property of RetiredAndTravelling. This includes blog posts, pages, design and all photos (whether watermarked or not). Any use of materials from this site without express written consent will be considered copyright infringement.
What a fun tour of this nature inspired area, the flower pots are so unusual and in the one you show, almost looks human created with the rocks below and mortar like build in the bottom. I love visiting unique places like this but probably would pass on getting in the water since i hate very cold water environments, lol
We loved our first visit to Flowerpot Island. We too passed on getting in the cold water. But lots of people did!
What an enjoyable adventure in this unique island! I am hearing about Flowerport island for the first time. The hike looks challenging but the views are awesome. The coast views with two distinct colors of turquoise and deep blue are simply spectacular. I would love to have that Stella’s gelato on a sunny day.:-)
We loved exploring the Flowerpot Island. And were amazed at the water colour. A great day trip for sure.
How did you manage to get a shot without so many people? I love this part of our province, it’s just too bad it’s so touristy now. It is so incredibly beautiful that I don’t blame everyone for wanting to go there. Such a great overview of what to expect and tips about the time needed – especially the pre-booking of the tour.
We went mid-week so that helped a bit with crowds. Everyone on our cruise boat rushed for the flowerpots immediately. We took our time and much of the crowd had moved on by the time we got there. And we were done before the next boat arrived. It was great to see them without full crowds.
What a great day trip! I would have done the same, choose a cruise that allowed me time to get off and explore the island. Flowerpot island looks so pretty. Those rock pillars are so fascinating, I wonder how long it took for water and wind to form them. Those ship wrecks underwater look so close to the surface! I can imagine you will return to kayak above them as well, there is always a reason to come back to a destination.
We will definitely go back to Tobermory and explore the shipwrecks more. Flowerpot Island was a fun discovery. Lots more for a return trip.
I am hearing about Flowerport island for the first time and loved the name. The trek looks perfect for me as it leads an amazing view point. What an enjoyable adventure in this unique island! I would love to visit this place one day.
I hope you do get to visit Flowerpot Island one day. It was a great hike with so many lovely views.
Such an amazing place, Flowerpot Island. I was in awe of the enormous rock formations, particularly the photographs that showed them up close. The stunning sights, sparkling oceans, and clear skies are all so gorgeous, and I appreciate them equally! This trip should be on everyone’s bucket lists since it is so incredible.
We were very happy we chose a cruise that let us get off on Flowerpot Island and explore. Loved getting close to the great rock formations and the beautiful water.
The landscape and coastline are stunning, what a special place with those alien rock formations. I really love that there are so many shipwrecks in the area. Are there scuba diving shops that can take you inside the wrecks? I did wreck diving in the Red Sea and Indonesia and I would love to do it here if I decide to go.
Tobermory is one of the big scuba diving spots in Canada. So lots of scuba shops both in Tobermory and in other areas that do tours to Tobermory. Some great deep diving too. But you will need a thick wetsuit.
Those “flower pots” are pretty neat rock formations. And the schooner – what a site to glide over.
We loved the variety of sights we got on our visit to Flowerpot Island from Tobermory.
The view of the beach at Tobermory looks fabulous. Flowerpot Island sounds like a place I would spend a holiday in. I mean clear sky and beautiful landscapes. I love nature. It would be an interesting journey to capture in a photograph since I like taking photoes, too.
Tobermory was a great spot to visit for outdoor sights and adventure. We were glad we got to see Flowerpot Island on this trip.
The Fathom Five National Marine park is something I had never heard of before. Its piqued my interest to say the least. Be something worth checking out next time I’m up there.
I hope you do get to visit Tobermory and the marine park. So much great water fun.
Wow that shipwreck is so visible from the boat! I always thought you’d had to get really deep to see one, this is amazing!
We too were quite amazed that we could see the wrecks so clearly from above.
Another place to add to my list. Thanks for such a great article
We were sure glad we got to see Flowerpot Island.
I’ve never heard of this place before but it looks amazing! Thank you for sharing! I’d love to visit some day!
It was fun to visit Flowerpot Island from Tobermory. A great way to spend the day.
At first I wonder why the island named Flowerpots. Then I saw these unique rock formations. 🙂 No wonder visitors like to see it, by hiking to the flowerpots like you did, or by boat and even a small plane.
It was very cool to see the rock formations at Flowerpot Island up close.
Oooh wow! That’s one unique landscape! It is indeed good that you decided which type of cruise to go on, after looking at the weather forecast 2 days before. We are planning a trip too now and as you say, I think we should wait to look at the forecast before deciding. Tiny island and one with a lighthouse as well? Wow, that’s perfect. The pristine turquoise waters are so gorgeous. Good to know there is a small shop for refreshments and a museum as well.
We were so happy that the weather cleared up as forecast. Those blues skies and turquoise waters were stunning to see.
What a neat place to visit! Those rock structures are so interesting. Sounds like a great family trip.
A visit to Flowerpot Island would definitely be a great family trip if you visit Tobermory in Ontario.
My hometown is Kincardine and when growing up we took so many road trips up to Tobermory and then when my kids were little, grandma and grandpa would take them as well. We love it up there and Flowerpot Island is an great place to hike.
It is hard to believe that I lived in Ontario my whole life and never made it to Tobermory. We were glad we got to visit the Flowerpot Island. And will definitely return to explore more.
It’s a beautiful spot. I recommend staying on the island for a night or 2 and explore more of the trails.
Great idea!
I never heard about Flowerport, it really looks awesome! especially that pillar! I believe a boat ride must be magic, but also the deep blue of the sky and water makes it special!
We were intrigued with the blue sky and turquoise waters we found around Tobermory. It was great to get out on the water and see things from that perspective.
I love those rock pillars – so unique! Would love to hike and explore Flowerpot Island from Tobermory in Ontario. And to see the sunken boats is so intriguing.
We want to plan a trip back to get some more looks at all the great underwater wrecks in the area of Tobermory. A great first glimpse.
You two always find the coolest places to explore. Never heard of Flowerpot Island. Thanks for the heads up with this article.
We were glad we finally made it to Flowerpot Island after hearing so much about it from our friends. A fun day trip.
How unique and beautiful. Definitely adding to my wish list for our Canada (hopefully) trip next summer. My kind of place with geological uniqueness and hiking. thanks for the ideas.
Flowerpot Island is just one of the great reasons to plan some Canada time out hiking and out of the cities. An interesting spot to hike.
What a wonderful looking place. That first photo, for a moment I thought was James Bond island in Thailand, lol. I hate it when you visit a new place, see something you want to do and realise you had to book that bit, but Flowerpot Island looks a great place to return to.
It was great to be able to visit Flowerpot Island from Tobermory. Glad we booked our slots in advance to not miss the treat.
Wow. There are so many great places around Canada. Thanks for sharing
Canada sure does have some amazing outdoor gems!
This looks like a fascinating place to discover and walk around and marvel at how nature can make such interesting things!
We loved the chance to hike around Flowerpot Island.
This looks like such a fun spot – I love the beautiful rock formations along the way! I had never heard of flowerpot island.
We love to visit new spots in our home province. Flowerpot Island was a great find.
Hiking Flowerpot Island seems like a fun thing to do. My husband and I are always looking for new hiking adventures to try. Thanks
We were so glad we got off on Flowerpot Island and had the chance to hike. It was great to see the sights from the shore as well as from the boat.
Flowerpot Island is such an adorable name! It seems like such a unique place to hike. I’ll have to check it out myself!
We had to check out the flowerpot rock structures for ourselves. Great to get off and hike the island for a closer view.
First, I have to say the name is adorable and really suits the island. You chose a great day to visit Flowerpot Island. The rock structures are so unique and impressive that to be in the shape they’re in! Another lovely day trip to add to my list 🙂
It was fun to see the actual flowerpot rock structures up close and see why the island was named for them. A great spot for hiking and enjoying the water views.
I hadn’t heard of these islands before. A few years ago we visited Makinaw Island and it was my first time seeing the gorgeous waters of Lake Huron and the limestone formations of the Great Lakes and I was very impressed. My family SCUBA dives so I would love to try the dive too.
There is a lot of scuba diving around Tobermory. But bring a thick suit! So much to discover underwater.
I haven’t heard of this area before, but I am intrigued now. Flowerpot Island looks like a unique and fun outdoor experience! The hike seemed nice, and I agree with you, I’d love the snorkel around the island! I would also like to explore the shipwrecks in the water as well, by scuba or snorkel.
We will definitely plan a longer visit next time so we can get in the water for snorkelling or scuba diving.
What a fun day! I’ve never heard of Flowerpot island but it’s looks really neat. And so many shipwrecks!! I love that you can see so many of them without actually scuba diving, but diving there would be really cool too.
We were happy we got to get a tease of the shipwrecks in the area around Tobermory. A good reason to go back and scuba dive for sure.
This looks like an incredible day trip! I would love to take a ferry ride out to Flowerpot Island, and I’m glad that the weather got better for you once you arrived. I’m surprised that there’s not one but two of these structures on the island. The Sweepstakes Ship Wreckage is also incredible! You’re right that it’s still basically intact, and it appears to be in very shallow water too.
The boat trip out to Flowerpot Island from Tobermory offered so many treats. We definitely need to go back when we have more time.
I had no idea that Tobermory is Canada’s scuba diving capital, how very cool. The Fathom Five National Marine Park with its caves, islands, and shipwrecks sounds and looks amazing. Interesting to hear that Sweepstakes is still in surprisingly good shape. I’m guessing in warmer waters it would be completely grown over by now.
Hiking around the flower pots must have been fun. Looking forward to your next visit to this region, that time with a report about the Grotto.
It was great that we finally got to Tobermory. And were so happy we did not miss Flowerpot Island. But on our next visit we want to explore those underwater wrecks more.
The rock formations on Flowerpot Island are delightful. The name is fantastic as well. I would be afraid to stand by the rocks, fearing they would fall over. They look amazing. Big Tub Lighthouse also looks fantastic. Cruising From Tobermory through the Fathom Five National Marine Park must be a great scuba diving adventure if there are more than 20 shipwrecks.
Tobermory is definitely a great spot for different sights on the water. One day we will get back for scuba diving.
What a difference a post makes: From “I’ve never heard of this place before” to ” I want to go there right now!” These flowerpots are just amazing. You know that I’m very much into street art and somehow they are like street art – made by God. They are like beautiful sculptures – I’m totally amazed! Yes, the surroundings are alluring, too – but those flowerpots – incredible!!
We were happy we finally made it to see Flowerpot Island. There were some very interesting rock structures on this island and definitely artistic.