The Top 10 Boating Locations In Canada

The majority of people in Canada live less than an hour away from water so it's no surprise that motor boating is one of the most popular activities in the country.

Canada boasts some of the most beautiful scenic views and stunning lakes in the world making it an ideal place for anyone looking to get out on the water. Below we take a look at some of the best motor boating locations that Canada has to offer.

1. Niagara on the Lake

Niagara on the Lake

Niagara on the lake is a must visit destination for any boater and has the bonus of being only a small distance from one of the most famous tourist attractions in the world, Niagara Falls. We recommend making use of the Niagara on the Lake Sailing Club's excellent marina where you can dock your boat while you enjoy the delights of the town. If you are able to, staying at one of the fabulous Niagara Falls hotels is recommended to take full advantage of incredible views the expansive surrounding waterways and the falls themselves have to offer.

2. Lake Erie

Lake Erie

With wide open waterways stretching over 387 kilometres in length and 91 kilometres wide it's easy to see why Lake Erie is a favourite amongst boaters. There are great places of interest to visit around this great lake such as Point Pelee and Rondeau Provincial Park which is famous for its sand spits and a great place to try your hand at bass fishing.

3. Princess Louisa Inlet, British Columbia

Princess Louisa Inlet, British Columbia

Located on the British Colombia coast the Princess Louisa Inlet is a true boater's paradise. The inlet is a lot smaller than the others featured here (6km) but its unique ecological landscape is teeming with wildlife, waterfalls and natural beauty and while it is a more relaxed boating location it's also unmissable for any boater looking to find a tucked away paradise. Due to the rolling mountain ranges the nearest roads are well over 50 kilometres away making this a true unspoilt natural wonder.

4. Trent-Severn Waterway, Ontario

Trent-Severn Waterway, Ontario

This historic waterway is among the favourites with boating enthusiasts and with good reason. Stretching over 240 miles the Trent-Severn sprawls through towns, villages and fishing posts allowing boaters to absorb vast amounts of localised culture on their trip. The waterway boasts some of the most beautiful docks in all of Canada and includes 44 locks along the way making this one of the most extensive boating experiences on offer.

5. Northumberland Strait

Northumberland Strait

Nestled between Prince Edward Island, New Brunswick and Nova Scotia the Northumberland Strait is known for some of the warmest water temperatures in Canada in the summer months, making it a perfect stop for those looking to go for a swim. The warmer climate also draws various breeds of fish making it a must stop destination for those keen to get out their rods!

6. Rideau Canal & Waterway

Rideau Canal & Waterway

The Rideau Canal was declared a World Heritage Site in 2007 and is the oldest operating canal in North America. Boating here will take you along the Canadian Shield wilderness to Ontario viewing some of the most scenic sights the country has to offer. If you want to combine Natural landscapes with Urban life then this river is a must visit destination!

7. Gulf of St. Lawrence

Gulf of St. Lawrence

The Gulf of St. Lawrence covers an area in excess of 236,000 square kilometres making it the world's largest estuary! Here you can visit one of the many sandy beaches or national parks such as Forillon National Park where Canada's wildlife roams naturally.

8. Miramichi River

Miramichi River

Located in New Brunswick this river is home to one of the largest populations of Atlantic salmon making it world famous for fishing. The landscape constantly evolves along your trip here allowing you to explore caves, visit Canada's longest running folk festival or simply cruise along this gorgeous sprawling river.

9. Howe Sound in British Columbia

Howe Sound in British Columbia

Situated northwest of Vancouver this snow-capped mountainous coastline is truly a sight to behold. Its staggering peaks and sprawling forests make it the perfect place to anchor down and enjoy some walking, camping or hiking. If that’s not your thing simply sailing around this magnificent location is utterly breath-taking.

10. Coal Harbour Marina, British Columbia

Coal Harbour Marina, British Columbia

Situated between downtown Vancouver and the world famous Stanley Park, the stunning Coal Harbour Marina is the perfect boating destination for anyone looking to stay close to Urban life. Boaters can pull in here to enjoy the usual offerings of a metropolis but with the added bonus of a stunning backdrop that mountains provide.

Online Course

Take your exam online and get your Pleasure Craft Operator Card!

BoaterExam.com

Classroom Courses

To obtain your boating license in a classroom setting, please select your province below:

Associates List


Wear It Life Jacket Campaign

Canadian Safe Boating Council

BOATER EXAM® is a registered trademark owned by Skipper Online Services (SOS) Inc. and is being used under license. | Privacy Policy