Story
This tour boat was built in 2001 by Blount-Barker Shipbuilding Co. in Warren, RI.
Historical Notes
George Schneider (July 2026) Writes: She was intended for operation by Chicago from the Lake LTD., but if she operated for them at all, it was short-lived.
Owners & Masters
In 2001-2002 she was owned by Harbor Leasing LLC, Warren RI USA.
In 2002-2026 she was owned by Wendella Sightseeing Co. Inc., Chicago IL USA.
Name Significance
Ouilmette refers to a prominent French-Canadian fur trader, Antoine Ouilmette, and his Potawatomi wife, Archange Ouilmette. They were foundational figures in early Chicagoland history, and their legacy survives primarily as the origin of the name for the Chicago suburb of Wilmette, Illinois
References
- Merchant Vessels of the United States Annual digital data files, 2002-2026
- cgmix.uscg.mil ↗ (Accessed 10 July 2026)
- Marine News magazine 28 Aug 2000, Page 6.
