michipicoten

Great-Lakes-Sailing.com

Michipicoten River, ON
(Wawa, ON)


Lat: 47° 56.104   Long: 087° 49.839

Quick Reference:

  • Port Type: Town (Wawa)
  • Monitors VHF: 68
  • Charts: CHS 2307, 2315
  • Customs: (888) CANPASS (266-7277)
  • Coast Guard
  • Transient Docking
  • Anchorage
  • Diesel
  • Gasoline
  • Potable Water
  • Pump Out
  • Washrooms
  • Showers
  • Laundry
  • Repair Services
  • Provisions
  • Pharmacy
  • Hospital/Clinic
  • Banks/ATM
  • Restaurants/Pubs
  • Shopping
  • Internet
  • Amenities
  Important Numbers

Area Code705
Emergency911
Police(888) 310-1122
Hospital(705) 856-2335
Pharmacy(705) 856-2800

DISTANCES


Port Distance (nm) Port Distance (nm)
Sault Ste. Marie, ON 110 S Marquette, MI 134 SW
Marathon, ON 100 N Apostle Islands, WI 255 SW
Thunder Bay, ON 178 W Duluth, MN 306 W

DESCRIPTION


Michipicoten River mouth is about 5 mi/8 km from the towm of Wawa, ON. This is an important stopover because it is the only location to refuel or reprovision between Sault Ste. Marie, 110 nm to the south and Marathon, some 95 nm north. Beyond Marathon, the next location where diesel is available is Rossport ON, approximately an additional 50 nm further west. The landfall on the Michipicoten River is actually about 1 nm up the River.

This is magnificent north country. You are a long, long way from the commercial amenities found far to the south but the exchange is truly worth it. The Michipicoten River was a key link in the historic fur trade, connecting Lake Superior to James Bay far to the north. Today, canoeists paddle the route taking 3-4 weeks to arrive at the shores of James Bay.

APPROACHES


The approaches to the Michipicoten River are clear from all directions. Ensure that you keep approximately 1 nm offshore to avoid any of the charted offshore shoals.

The river mouth is marked with an ISO WHITE light. Much caution needs to be exercised entering the river. There are shoals that shift from year to year and groundings are not uncommon. A safe option is to radio Buck's Marina on VHF 68 or telephone (705) 856-4488 (assuming a signal)and ask for current information. If you have reserved a slip at Buck's, they will send a boat to escort you in. Buck's Marina is well-known and well-regarded for their hospitality and service.

MARINAS, YACHT CLUBS, MOORINGS, ANCHORAGES


Buck's Marina   (705) 856-4488    VHF 68
Buck's Marina is a first-class, full-service marina. They have 130 slips with a number set aside for transients. There is a fuel dock (diesel and gasoline) and pumpout station. Water and power are available dockside. They have full repair and maintenance facilities to carry out engine, mechanical, electrical and fibreglass work. There are washrooms, showers and a laundry facility. There is also a childrens' playground and convenience store on-site.

The town of Wawa is approximately 5 mi/8 km northeast and Buck's Marina can arange a taxi into town.

REPAIRS & MAINTENANCE, PROVISIONING, BANKS/ATM's


Buck's Marina (See above)

In Wawa, you will find grocery stores and general merchandise stores.

There are several banks in Wawa with counter and ATM service.

MEDICAL SERVICES


Lady Dunn Health Centre (705) 856-2335 is located in Wawa, about 5 mi/8 km north of the marina. It is a new small hospital with emergency room, surgical and therapeutic services.

Fenlon's Pharmacy (705) 856-2800 is located in downtown Wawa, about 5 mi/8 km north of the marina.

PLACES TO EAT


Downtown Wawa has several small restaurants, mostly found along the main street - Braodview Ave.

THINGS TO DO/SEE/VISIT


This is cruising country. For the most part, your entertainment is going to come from relaxing and enjoying the magnificent scenery and friendly hospitality of the people who make their life in this northern part of Ontario.

The Michipicoten River ON/Wawa ON visitors site will give you an idea of lots more things to do and see while visiting the area.

Return from Michipicoten River ON to Lake Superior

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