The Ackert Family - 30 Years of Cruising!

A Mid-Summer's Day Dream Come True

Following their retirement from full time farming in 1978, Lloyd and Helen Ackert continued to live on the family farm providing meals and accommodation to farm vacationers. And then came the dream!

From an idea on a rented houseboat in 1981, Lloyd and Helen and their family created Ontario Waterway Cruises Inc.

As founder of Ontario Waterway Cruises Inc., Lloyd spearheaded the development of the business through the 80s and although he and Helen fully retired in 1993, he continued to observe and offer his advice as the years went by. Dad passed on in 2011 but he will always be remembered for his personal interest, enthusiasm and attention to detail… a remedy for success that he instilled in us and everyone he worked with.

Since 1993, sons Marc and John have alternated as captain aboard ship. Marc & Robin and John & Joy share the various responsibilities of managing the business. Robin manages the hospitality functions and Joy manages reservations.

Passengers enjoy browsing the albums which trace the development of this successful cruise operation from the time that this former farm family from Bruce County first "put to sea"!