Toronto’s waterfront is a hidden gem and mostly unknown except to those who work and play in the area. This past Thursday we had the opportunity to sail abroad the 164ft three-masted gaff-rigged schooner, Kajama and besides for the spring chill in the air, we had a marvelous time. With daily tours during the warmer months, the Kajama is wonderful way to cruise the shores of lake Ontario, while seeing Toronto from another perspective. The skyline is truly breathtaking and I can only image how spectacular it would be during a nighttime cruise.

Caron, Tehya, Indy and I (behind the camera) took the drive down to Toronto last Thursday and boarded the Kajama around 3 pm for the 3.30 pm cruise. It was a very overcast and cool afternoon and we honestly thought we’d be the only ones on the ship. There must have been about 30 people scattered about the huge deck and we overheard a group  speaking amongst each other… seems they were from as far away as New York. I can only imagine how the tourists flock on the Kajama during the peak summer days.

Like clockwork there was a loud blast from the ship’s horn and we left dockside under the power of  diesel engines at exactly 3.30 pm, but once we were in more open waters we could hear the hum of the engines subside as they unveiled the massive sails. BTW, all passengers are invited to help hoist the sails and though it seemed like a bit of hard work, the few people who decided to assist had a lot of fun.

As we moved away from the waterfront we could see the true magnitude of Toronto unfold in front of our eyes… such a beautiful city! Immediately we could feel the temperature drop a few degrees, so our suggestion is to pack a sweater or windbreaker or you will do like Indy and Tehya and spend most of the trip below deck.

Speaking about below deck, this is where there’s a fairly large dining room, which doubles for a sort of hall for weddings, parties and other private functions. This area is accessed from the top deck via a set of stairs close to the middle of the ship. Once you’re down the stairs you can go to the right to get to the bathrooms (very clean and roomy) and directly in front of you will be the dining room/hall. To the rear of that is the galley and we did see a couple chefs smartly dressed in the gear moving about.

The top deck is where most of the action is. Besides being able to take part in raising the sails, passengers are also invited to fire the small cannon… be prepared for a LOUD boom! The deck itself is very open and there are benches were you could just sit back relax and enjoy the ride under the massive sails. There’s a fully stocked bar, where one could get a cold beer or cocktail, but on this chilly day we opted for coffee. I’m not sure if  the chills were getting to us, but the coffee we purchased was delicious and not what we expected. At this bar area is where you could also purchase snacks (chips etc) as well as order from their menu. Indy and Tehya started off with a couple bags of Doritos, then later on we ordered the chicken strips and fries with a cold drink.

At no time did it feel rough or cause us any sort of seasickness if you’re wondering, but we’re accustomed to being on boats/ships of all sizes during our time cruising the Caribbean. With the sails swollen with the wind off the lake, the ship glided it’s way around the islands off the mainland of Toronto. One could easily step back in time when ships like these were the main means of transport for people and goods from country to country. Once the sails were full of air, you were mesmerized by how something so simple could move such a massive vessel.

During all this time there were staff closely positioned to answer any questions you may have or just engage in friendly conversation. When we first boarded, up until the safety drill was done, we could see the captain move about the ship. And if you take a closer look at the pics in the album, you’ll see him in action helping to raise the sails. The crew were not only very friendly, but they really seemed to be enjoying their respective jobs (don’t forget to give them a tip on the way out.. helps with their college fund).

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If you’re interested in sailing on one of the recreational cruises on the Kajama, here’s the usually schedule (btw, just where the ship docks, you’ll find a booth where you can purchase your boarding pass):

Weekends May to September

Boards     Departs     Arrives
11:30am     12:00pm     1:30pm
1:30pm     2:00pm     3:30pm
3:30pm     4:00pm     5:30pm

Weekdays June

Boards     Departs     Arrives
3:00pm     3:30pm     5:00pm

Weekdays in July to Labour Day

Boards     Departs     Arrives
11:30am     12:00pm     1:30pm
1:30pm     2:00pm     3:30pm
3:30pm     4:00pm     5:30pm

Evening Sails: Friday, Saturday and Sunday

July long weekend to September long weekend when available.
Reservations can only be made Two weeks before the cruise date.
Sailing times are the same format as the day sails and same prices.

Friday 5:30pm,7:30pm, 9:30pm
Saturday 5:30pm,7:30pm, 9:30pm
Sunday 5:30pm, 7:30pm

Toronto Boat Cruise Day Tour Pricing

Individual Prices
Adult (16-64)     Senior (65+)     Child (5-15)
$21.95 CDN       $19.95 CDN        $11.95 CDN

Group Discount Prices (20 or More)
Adult                  Senior                 Child
$19.00 CDN    $17.00 CDN     $11.25 CDN

Prices in Canadian Dollars and subject to HST

Couple observations I feel compelled to mention. The portions of food served is somewhat small and may not be enough to share if that’s your intention. Parking in Toronto can be a bit pricy, but that’s the norm. The closest intersection is Queen’s Quay West and Lower Simcoe Street. The boat is located just south on Lower Simcoe Street (at the dock). There is parking north on Lower Simcoe off the Queen’s Quay. It’s a 7 level parking garage but there are plenty of parking options around there if that does not suit you. I believe we paid about $12 for 3 hours of parking at the multi-level parking lot. To find (location) where the Kajama boards, go to the following page and click on the arrow : http://www.tallshipcruisestoronto.com/boat-cruise/toronto-harbour-map.html

Overall a great way to spend an evening while in Toronto and I would even go as far to say it would make for a great pre or post dinner date night!

Launched as the Wilfried in Rendsburg, Germany in 1930, the Kajama traded under sail for nearly 70 years. She was a familiar ship in ports from Northwest Spain, through western Europe, and as far north as Norway and Russia. In 1999, Kajama was delivered transatlantic by Great Lakes Schooner Company and restored to her original profile.

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