Discovery Harbour

Penetanguishene, ON

If you are a fan of history, especially naval history, heading up to Penetanguishene for a few hours will scratch that itch. Discovery Harbour was a small 1800's naval base which was home to not only a naval dock, but it also had an army base as well. If you are a fan of Patrick O'Brian's Aubrey/Maturin book series, this is a great chance to walk back into the era of all the interesting stories.

Discovery Harbour has many different tours throughout the day where you can learn all about the different roles of all the inhabitants and the kinds of challenges they faced for such a remote location of the time. The buildings, furnishings, and antiques really tell a compelling story of what it was like in the 1800's. And on the tour, you may even meet characters who will share their story.

On a nice day, you would be hard pressed to find a nicer stroll, for the buildings are nice, but walking along the waterfront is simple wonderful. There is a building near the end of the naval area and close the the military base where you can watch a documentary. The lobby has been crafted into the deck of an actual ship, with running water, sails, and cannons. Kids will love this.

You can also get a tour of two of their moored ships in the docs. You may even be able to swab the deck - and learn why this was done... All in all, Discovery Harbour is lot of fun and can also be a nice relaxing day of strolling through a different time. It is worth the drive to Penetanguishene.