Ontario is filled with many beautiful, scenic locations for boaters to visit and explore in the summer. Continue reading below for our list of the top 10 locations you need to visit on your next boat trip!
The Great Lakes
Lake Superior, Huron, Erie, Michigan, and Ontario, the largest freshwater lakes in the world, are some of the best boating locations Ontario has to offer. In fact, the Great Lakes are the number one destination for boat trips in all of Ontario. This is a wide selection but boating in any section of these Great Lakes is an experience you will be grateful you had. Great Lake boating is the closest thing Ontarians have to ocean boating. If you are hoping for a big water destination with beautiful scenery and great options for marina stops, head to the Great Lakes!
The Muskoka Lakes
Did you know that National Geographic Traveler Magazine called Muskoka the #1 place to live in the world during the summer? It’s no surprise, as the Muskoka Lakes are granite-lined and surrounded by beautiful summer homes belonging to many big-name Hollywood stars. There are also many wonderful Muskoka resorts nearby so you can turn your Muskoka Lakes trip into a weekend trip filled with wonderful food and many summer activities to enjoy.
The 1000 Islands – St. Lawrence River
With so many islands within the 80km section of the St. Lawrence River, you can experience castles, dining, hiking, museums, fishing spots, and different summer events in this location. The St. Lawrence River connects to Lake Ontario in the west and if you go east, you can connect to the Gulf of St. Lawrence. There is an option to explore the U.S side as well, so make sure to bring your passport.
The Rideau Canal
Starting at Old Fort Henry in Kingston and spanning to Parliament in Ottawa, the Rideau Canel offers a different kind of boating experience compared to open water boating. This is the oldest operated canal in North America, having been open since 1832. If you’re a history lover, this is the ideal location for you!
The Ottawa River
With sand beaches and family entertainment options, the Ottawa River is a great option for casual boating, not to mention the connection to Ontario’s nation’s capital.
Lake Simcoe
The thousands of cottages along Lake Simcoe, along with it being located only an hour from Toronto, allow Lake Simcoe to be an easy and central destination, with many options for daily activities.
The Trent-Seven Waterway
A favourite of boaters, The Trent-Seven Waterway can be an area you conquer one section at a time or one that you turn into a week-long trip. With 45 locks available, overnight docking is an option, allowing you to experience one of the many available hotels or B&Bs nearby. Staying overnight, or for a few days will give you time to explore the many museums, historical sites, and art galleries the area has to offer. Each year over 120,000 people take this boating experience and it is one you won’t want to miss out on.
The 30,00 Islands- Georgian Bay
Interested in exploring the world’s largest freshwater group of islands? Then the Thirty Thousand Islands of Georgian Bay will be the perfect trip for you! With incredible scenery and many parks and historical sites, this beautiful subsection of Lake Huron is perfect for a day trip or full weekend adventure.
Lake Nipissing
Lake Nipissing is one of the largest lakes in Ontario that is not part of the Great Lakes and offers 800 square kilometers of water to explore. Lake Nipissing connects to Georgian Bay from the French River.
Lake of the Woods- Kenora
If you are looking for somewhere to enjoy nature that is under the radar, peaceful, remote, and secluded, the Lake of the Woods- Kenora may be the perfect destination for you. It is a large lake with 100,00 km of shoreline and over 14,000 islands.
Tips for Your Next Trip
Ensure Your Boat is Ready
Before heading out on a boating trip it is essential to check over everything on your boat and confirm it doesn’t have any issues or outstanding maintenance needed. The last thing you want is to be in unfamiliar water while your boat is in need of important repairs. Check everything from wear and tear to loose screws, holes, and rigging systems to make sure you stay safe on your boat this summer.
Ensure You Have Everything You Need
It is best to follow a boating checklist to ensure all of the essential items including safety items, equipment, and food are on board. There may be stops along your route that will offer essential items, but it is always best to pack as if you won’t be stopping just to ensure you are covered in every aspect.
Pack Like Any Other Trip
Treat a boating trip the same as you would any other vacation. This means you should be taking your ID, travel documents, and any other items you would normally carry with you. You will also want to bring any medications needed, and extra weather-appropriate gear and clothing. Check the forecast before you leave so you know what kind of clothing you should bring.
Do You Need Boat Insurance for a Boating Trip?
Having boat insurance before operating your boat is essential to ensuring you, your passengers, and your boat are protected. Boat insurance can also help to protect you if you injure someone or their property on your boat trip. Having boat insurance will give you peace of mind, allowing you to fully enjoy your boating trip and if a claim needs to be made, you will have the option to do so.
Basic boat insurance covers the following areas:
- Collision
- Property damage liability
- Bodily injury liability
- Comprehensive (damage done by events other than collision)
There are many different kinds of boat insurance policies, so it is best to discuss your boat insurance coverage with your insurance broker before departing on your trip. At a minimum, you should make sure to have boat liability insurance.
Youngs Insurance Brokers offers boat and watercraft insurance in Ontario through our FLOAT insurance program, with an emphasis on providing excellent customer service. We insure bass boats, cruisers, fishing boats, personal watercraft, pontoon boats, small boats, small sailboats and yachts,
Speak with your local Ontario insurance broker today to get a boat or personal watercraft insurance quote.
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Disclaimer: The information provided on this blog is for educational purposes only and is not intended as professional insurance advice. The coverage, terms, and conditions of each insurance policy are unique and subject to individual circumstances. The information provided does not guarantee the availability or suitability of any insurance policy for your specific needs. You should not rely on the information in the blog as an alternative to professional advice from your insurance broker or insurance company. If you have any specific questions about any insurance matter, please consult a licensed insurance broker for personalized advice and guidance.