Chief Commanda II
Chief Commanda II
4.5
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North Bay, Ontario, Canada
Awards
Travellers' Choice
2024
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Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.
Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as waiting time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.
Popular mentions
4.5
164 reviews
Excellent
101
Very good
42
Average
12
Poor
6
Terrible
3
Cheryl R
Calgary, Canada4 contributions
Jul 2021 • Family
As my last day in North Bay visiting family, from Calgary, Ab I wanted to do something we have never done before. Although I grew up in North Bay and have seen the Chief go out a million times before, I never took the time to consider going on a cruise of Lake Nippissing. I am so incredibly happy we did and my 10 year old son got to experience it! The entire experience was seamless, from ordering tickets online to boarding and then enjoyment. The service of all staff on board was phenomenal, friendly and professional! Everyone should treat themselves to a trip on the Chief Commanda! The day started out a bit dreary in North Bay but we weren't too concerned because even if it rained we could go inside, but 5 mins after leaving the dock the sun came out and it made for an extremely pleasurable ride. I was impressed at the light bites menu as well were were able to enjoy a couple of beers on board and prices were all very reasonable. I highly recommend this trip to tourists and residents alike, get out there and enjoy the beauty this city offers!
Written July 24, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Lena
Toronto, Canada19 contributions
Jun 2019 • Couples
A wonderful way to celebrate any special occasion. Warmly greeted as we went on board. Shown our table & to our surprise they had a special card printed for us wishing us a Happy Anniversary. Got drinks & walked around the deck; was a calm evening so we very much got to enjoy the scenery. Dinner was served hot & my vegetarian order was ok but I understand we were out at sea & orders were pre-made. Portions were huge. All staff could not have been nicer. All excellent & they have timing down to the second so you can catch a beautiful sunset. The dining cabin was full & you are quite close to the table next to you so if you’re looking for total privacy this is not the place. We will be back!
Written March 1, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Brian J
1 contribution
Aug 2021 • Couples
Spent a great day on the Chief, also our anniversary so a double bonus.French River cruise was really enjoyable as the scenery was simply breathtaking. The staff from the Captain on down were very courteous and professional at the same time.
The only thing I can recommend would be perhaps an overhead awning of some sort, not sure if it is even possible to install, on the upper observation deck to mitigate a blazing sun on really hot summer days.
I would heartily recommend a cruise on the Chief to anyone who visits the North Bay area, had a great day overall.
The only thing I can recommend would be perhaps an overhead awning of some sort, not sure if it is even possible to install, on the upper observation deck to mitigate a blazing sun on really hot summer days.
I would heartily recommend a cruise on the Chief to anyone who visits the North Bay area, had a great day overall.
Written September 23, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Traveler
Sudbury, Canada1 contribution
Jul 2022
4 of us went for the Canada Day cruise. However the fireworks could not be shot off due to the wind - which was fine - but there was a problem with the music, WAY too loud, and multipul attempts made by other passengers and my team to turn it down or move the speaker from directly pointing at us was nil. The man would come, turn it up louder and then proceed to put the speaker to us again. We couldn't have a conversation nor could we enjoy a trip with headaches. They also did not stock enough supplies for the bar and after one drink I could not have another because there were no spirits left. People were pushy and overly loud straining to have conversations OVER the music and it was not a good time. Will not return, we did not enjoy our trip.
Written July 4, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Mr. Zappa
South River, Canada60 contributions
Aug 2024 • Family
This trip is expensive for what you see in a tootle around on the Manitou Islands Scenic Cruise of Lake Nipissing. Four adults and one child (and one toddler) was a cool $248.71. It was impossible to hear the limited description of what we were looking at (on only two occasions) because the sound system sounded like they were projecting from a closet. The crew was mostly cheery and helpful except for the surly teenager behind the counter who looked like she would rather be somewhere on the mainland. Maybe the other cruises are worth the time and effort but I will have to save up for a few years before we consider attempting that trip.
Written August 5, 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
ToddandDenise
Lakeshore, Canada132 contributions
Jul 2022
Our son and daughter-in-law treated us to the fireworks cruise. It was nice to be on a boat again. The staff were very friendly. The captain manned the boat in some very choppy waters, however it was smooth.
The plastic chairs and tables were okay, perhaps can be better quality. The bar could have more options as well. Saw food however did not know how to order any.
Views were wonderful and you can get great pics of the sunset. Sadly we did not get to see the fireworks due to wind. It would have been nice to be offered first dibs at booking the firework cruise when held again.
The plastic chairs and tables were okay, perhaps can be better quality. The bar could have more options as well. Saw food however did not know how to order any.
Views were wonderful and you can get great pics of the sunset. Sadly we did not get to see the fireworks due to wind. It would have been nice to be offered first dibs at booking the firework cruise when held again.
Written July 12, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
DAG1953
North Bay, Canada7 contributions
Aug 2021
My husband and I enjoyed our Manitou Island cruise very much. The lunch was super special, fresh and delicious too. We had the Chief Burger with fries while enjoying the beautiful northern scenery of Lake Nipissing. I highly recommend these Cruises..you will not be disappointed.
Written August 20, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Cruiser06383971211
4 contributions
Jul 2024 • Family
The weather was perfect for this sunset cruise and the sunset itself did not disappoint. The crew was very attentive and pleasant.
The only complaint would be the food. My husband and I had the ravioli dish and it was like nothing we've ever seen before except maybe out of a can of Chef Boyardee. Our son had the pickerel and it seemed overdone. His partner had the stuffed chicken breast and that seemed dry and cold. The starter of tortilla chips with salsa and naan bread with hummus was good. The Caesar salad had way too many bacon bits. The slice of chocolate cake was generous and yummy. However, maybe it's time to change up the menu. Unless something changes for the better I will not book another dinner cruise on the Chief Commanda II.
The only complaint would be the food. My husband and I had the ravioli dish and it was like nothing we've ever seen before except maybe out of a can of Chef Boyardee. Our son had the pickerel and it seemed overdone. His partner had the stuffed chicken breast and that seemed dry and cold. The starter of tortilla chips with salsa and naan bread with hummus was good. The Caesar salad had way too many bacon bits. The slice of chocolate cake was generous and yummy. However, maybe it's time to change up the menu. Unless something changes for the better I will not book another dinner cruise on the Chief Commanda II.
Written July 17, 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Sandandsunshine
North Bay, Canada205 contributions
Aug 2022
We party of four did the dinner, sunset cruise. Good experience. Nice seating and service on board. Excellent system to book, get tickets. 4 stars instead of 5 because the food portions were small, and the food was warm, not hot. I feel for the money this should not have been.
Written August 10, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Tanya V
5 contributions
Jul 2021
Family of 12 took the Callander Bay Sunset Cruise. Staff were super friendly and GREAT with kids! They accommodated all or requests and needs, including accessibility needs. Food was excellent. Lots of choices from the BBQ menu to appeal to the kids. Will definitely will ride the Chief Commanda II again!
Written July 21, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Hello,
Are you running your boat cruise with covid 19?
Do you accept small dogs on the cruise?
How long is the cruise?
Thanks
Marnie
Written July 24, 2020
Rich S
North Bay, Canada
Hi Marina,
Thanks for reaching out. Unfortunately, due to the COVID-19 restrictions, we aren't able to cruise this season. Our cruises run from a 1 1/2 hours to 4 1/4 hours. We love dogs, but due to regulations, can't have them onboard. We can recommend some really good doggie daycares that are close by though.
We're really looking forward to hitting the water in May of 2021. We hope that you can join us next season!
Written July 25, 2020
MJG
Elliot Lake, Canada
when do they leave the port in North Bay..How long is the tour? What is the cost per adult? do Kids under the age of 5 yrs old Free or do they have discounted prive
Written July 25, 2017
Visit here to answer all your questions.georgianbaycruise site online
Written July 26, 2017
robertjbrooksrb
South River, Canada
What is the pricing including meals/beverages on board? Are group rates available and if so what are the rates for these?
Written May 9, 2017
Captain_Rich_CCII
North Bay, Canada
Hi Robert,
We've been getting the ship ready for our sailing season, so I apologize for the delayed reply. We have a few different cruises and our pricing varies on them.
Our adult single ticket pricing varies based on the length of the cruise, but it starts at $27 for our 1 1/2 hour Manitou Island Scenic trip and goes up to $44 for our 4 1/4 hour French River cruise. We do have discount rates for seniors, youth and children.
Additionally, we do have the option of a three course dinner cruise on our evening trip to Callander Bay that is $68 and includes both the cruise ticket and the meal.
Our open air BBQ is open on all of the cruises that we do for a la carte ordering. We are in the process of finalizing our BBQ menu for the season and should have it up on our website early next week.
We have a few different group rate packages available. If you'd like to give us a call at 866-660-6686 or 705-494-8167 we'd be happy to go over them and see if there is a package that would suit your group.
Hope that helps :)
Written May 13, 2017
No pets. Only guide dogs or service animals
Written August 3, 2016
Captain_Rich_CCII
North Bay, Canada
Hi there!
We have a 1 1/2 hour scenic cruise to the Manitou Islands departing at 1pm on June 15. Boarding begins at 12:30pm.
Hope that you can join us :)
Written June 14, 2016
would like to know if this cruise wheelchair accessible for my husband
Written May 24, 2016
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