GRACE & SPEED BOATHOUSE
Step Inside Muskoka’s Living Boat Collection
The Grace and Speed Boathouse proudly displays North America’s largest in-water collection of classic antique wooden boats, offering a rare glimpse into the golden age of boating craftsmanship. Located on the scenic shores of Muskoka Wharf in Gravenhurst, the exhibition features beautifully restored vessels dating back to the early 20th century—each with its own unique story.
In summer, the boats are shown afloat in the water, gleaming in the sunlight just as they were meant to be seen. In winter, they are carefully lifted onto beams inside the boathouse, revealing their intricately detailed wooden hulls for close-up viewing. This seasonal transformation lets visitors appreciate every aspect of the vessels, from elegant deck lines to masterfully crafted undersides.
The collection exists thanks to the generosity of private owners who lend their prized boats for public enjoyment, creating a living tribute to vintage design. With boats rotating regularly, each visit promises something new and captivating.
Historical Significance and Legacy
Gravenhurst holds a special place in Canadian boatbuilding history as a hub of wooden boat manufacturing in the early to mid-20th century. Legendary builders such as Greavette, Minett, Duke, and Ditchburn crafted vessels here that blended elegance with engineering precision, leaving a lasting mark on recreational boating across North America.
Today, that legacy is preserved at the Grace and Speed Boathouse, where many of the boats on display were originally built by these historic firms. Seeing these vessels allows visitors to connect with Muskoka’s rich heritage and appreciate the artistry behind each design. As one enthusiast put it, “These boats aren’t just watercraft—they’re works of art that carry the spirit of an era.”
Through its rotating collection and commitment to preservation, the boathouse keeps this vibrant chapter of local history alive—offering new generations the chance to experience the elegance, craftsmanship, and stories of Muskoka’s boating golden age.
