Other Names #
- TWILLINGATE
- Thomas V. Hollett
- AVALON VOYAGER
Site Description #
- Tour Boat/Floating Restaurant
- 25ft 8m
- 135ft Length
- Cape Hurd, Georgian Bay, Lake Huron
- N 45 14.599 W 81 42.114
History #
Formerly known by various names including Twillingate, Thomas V. Hollett, and Avalon Voyager, had a fascinating history as a vessel that served different purposes throughout its years of operation. From its construction as a minesweeper in Newfoundland to its eventual demise as a wreck off the coast of Ontario, this vessel has left a mark on the maritime landscape.
The Twillingate, as it was originally named, was built in Clarenville, Newfoundland, in 1946. It was constructed as a minesweeper for potential use during World War II. However, it was later turned over to the Canadian government and completed as a small cargo ship. With a length of 136 feet and dimensions of 28 feet in width and 11.66 feet in depth, the Twillingate had a gross tonnage of 325 and net tonnage of 191.
Over the years, the vessel underwent several changes in ownership and underwent rebuilds that resulted in alterations to its tonnage. In 1951, it was renamed Thomas V. Hollett and then Avalon Voyager in 1967. Finally, it became known as Avalon Voyager 2 in 1976. Despite the name changes, its official number remained consistent at 177073.
The Avalon Voyager 2 had a varied ownership history. It was initially owned by the Minister of Public Works for the Province of Newfoundland from 1946 to 1950. Subsequently, ownership passed to North Star Shipping Co., Ltd. (1950-1951), Holletts Transportation Co., Ltd. (1951-1967), Avalon Voyager, Ltd. (1967-1974), Waterman’s Services (Scott), Ltd. (1974-1975), John C. Stapleton (1975-1976), and Paul Swift (from 1976 onwards).
By 1979, the Avalon Voyager 2 had been repurposed as a restaurant in Kincardine, Ontario, where it served patrons seeking a unique dining experience. However, on October 31, 1980, tragedy struck. While en route to Owen Sound to continue its role as a floating restaurant, the vessel collided with the bottom near Cape Hurd, sustaining damage that caused it to be holed. Subsequently, it drifted to its final resting place on the west side of Bonnet Island, near Tobermory, Ontario.
No lives were lost in the incident, and the Avalon Voyager 2 was not carrying any cargo at the time of the collision. Despite efforts to salvage the vessel, it ultimately sank and was deemed a wreck. The registration for the Avalon Voyager 2 was officially closed on March 5, 1981, with the endorsement of being wrecked.
Throughout its existence, the Avalon Voyager 2 played different roles, transitioning from a minesweeper to a cargo vessel and, ultimately, a floating restaurant. Its presence as a fixture in Kincardine since the late 1970s made it a recognizable sight for locals and visitors alike. While its final chapter ended in tragedy, the Avalon Voyager 2’s unique journey and diverse uses contribute to its intriguing place in maritime history.
