Bois Blanc became a popular day trip destination, with picnic grounds, a small amusement area, dancing and other services.

Service to Bob-Lo became so popular that in 1902, the company hired Frank E. Kirby to design a passenger excursion steamer, SS Columbia.

However, passenger volume continued to increase, and soon the Detroit, Belle Isle, & Windsor Ferry Company commissioned another, slightly smaller steamer.

This ship was again designed by Frank E. Kirby, and constructed at the Toledo Shipbuilding Company.

Claire was launched at Toledo Shipbuilding Company in 1910, and entered service later that year between Detroit and Bob-Lo Island.

In 2015, the vessel was towed to the former Detroit Lime Dock on the Rouge River, while her restoration remained in limbo.

[8] The Saint Claire was engulfed in an accidental fire while docked on the Detroit River on July 6, 2018.

Amidships, public restrooms and crews quarters were placed on either side of the ship.

Doors here led to the open deck and to a "beer garden" located above the dance floor.

Public access to the top deck was limited; the area also included the pilot house and lifeboat storage.