Fathom Five National Marine Park

Fathom Five is Canada's first national marine park. The park protects 20 islands at the mouth of Georgian Bay.

Divers and snorkellers can explore the 22 shipwrecks within the park's waters. All scuba divers must register at the Visitor Centre prior to diving in the park. Visitors can also take a glass-bottom boat tour to view some of the wrecks.

The mainland section of the park hosts the new Visitor Center, complete with a high-definition theater, exhibit gallery, viewing tower and year-round, fully accessible trails.

Flowerpot Island is the only island in Fathom Five park with facilities for the public. There are docks, a picnic shelter, washrooms and hiking trails.The park is known for its unusual stone pillars.

There is also a lighthouse on the island's northeast corner. A local volunteer organization maintains the lighthouse keeper's homes, gardens, walkways and a viewing platform overlooking Georgian Bay.

There are six campsites on Flowerpot Island, and they are available on a first-come, first-served basis but campers must register at the Visitor Center before departing for the island. Cyprus Lake in nearby Bruce Peninsula National Park offers 242 campsites in three campgrounds.

Interpretive programs are offered in July and August, including guided walks and naturalist programs.

Visitors can also explore the marine park on the car passenger ferry Chi-Cheemaun. The ferry travels between Tobermory and South Baymouth on Manitoulin Island on a regular daily schedule.

The park is accessible from the south along Hwy. 6 or from the north by Owen Sound Transportation Ferry, the Chi-Cheemaun, which operates during the spring, summer and fall.