Boating

From the first spring thaw through the sunny days of summer and into the golden warmth of fall, boating in Ontario remains a popular recreational activity.

It’s no surprise, as Ontario is defined by water. Bordered by four of the five Great Lakes and home to more than 250,000 lakes, nearly 15% of Ontario’s surface is covered in water. From remote, crystal-clear northern lakes and the sparkling waterways of cottage country to captivating islands, legendary rivers and heritage canals, endless boating adventures await.

Set sail on a sightseeing boat tour or cruise for a relaxed day trip or immersive multi-day journey through the iconic 1000 Islands, Muskoka’s storied lakes or the 30,000 Islands along Georgian Bay. Enjoy Ottawa’s cityscapes on an urban boat tour or charter a sailing excursion on Lake Superior.

If you’d prefer to caption your own vessel, Ontario’s welcoming harbours, marinas and docks make it easy to set your course. Boat rentals, from powerboats to houseboat vacations, offer even more freedom to explore interconnected lakes and rivers at your own pace, with access to hidden coves and remote shorelines.