A lone sailor, living on a sailboat trapped in the ice of Southern Georgian Bay, has raised concern among Penetanguishene residents. The man, who has been living aboard the boat since summer, has attracted the attention of locals, some of whom have delivered groceries and supplies to him during the harsh winter months.
One resident, Evan Topping, went as far as welding together a wooden stove and walking it out to the sailboat to offer help. Topping spoke to the sailor, who expressed that he wants to be left alone. “He says he’s fine and just wants people to leave him alone, but the opposite of that is happening,” Topping shared.
Southern Georgian Bay OPP Constable David Hobson confirmed that officers are aware of the situation and have been checking on the sailor. “Officers have been in contact with the individual, and community partners have been advised,” said Hobson. “At this time, officers continue to monitor the situation, and the individual is currently not in need of assistance.”
According to police, the man remains a private person and does not interact much with others. While he is free to leave the boat as long as the ice allows, his isolated living conditions in the icy waters are causing some unease among residents as winter weather intensifies.
