Andrew Siegwart sits down with Ashley Salem, operator of Blue Heron Cruises and co-owner of Sweetwater Bay in Tobermory, Ontario. Ashley shares her deep-rooted connection to the region, having spent summers in the area since childhood and working in tourism since 1999.

Blue Heron Cruises offers glass-bottom boat tours, sunset cruises, and a new diving and snorkeling experience in the Fathom Five National Marine Park. This year, they're launching Blue Heron Adventures, providing tours for various skill levels around the area's 20+ shipwrecks.

Sweetwater Bay, a recent addition to their portfolio, offers six high-end suites on the Bruce Trail, featuring a restaurant, pool, vegetable garden, and lavender maze. The property provides a unique accommodation experience for hikers and nature enthusiasts.

Ashley discusses the evolution of Tobermory's tourism, highlighting the impact of social media, reservation systems, and the area's natural beauty. She emphasizes the importance of sustainable practices, staff training, and creating memorable experiences for visitors.

Andrew and Ashley cover the challenges of managing multiple tourism businesses, recruiting staff, and catering to diverse visitor demographics. Ashley's advice for travellers: make reservations early and explore the Bruce Trail to discover hidden gems.

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