boat trip ontario

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Niagara City Cruises

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Discover the story of Niagara Parks and all of the must-see Canadian experiences found along its 56-kilometre parkway with our digital visitor guide!

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Tobermory | Destination Ontario

Ottawa and Southeastern Ontario

Muskoka and georgian bay, northern ontario, toronto, grand river and niagara region, cross-border cruises, on this page, sightseeing boat tours and cruises in ontario.

Over a half million freshwater lakes, rivers and waterways makes Ontario the ultimate boating and cruising destination.

From sightseeing boat tours and leisure cruising vessels to high-speed crafts and more, there are seemingly endless nautical adventures to be had in Ontario.

Here is a selection of diverse cruise and boating experiences that will set sail this season. 

The heritage waterways of Southeastern Ontario include the Ottawa River, Rideau Canal, Trent-Severn Waterway, St. Lawrence River and the 1000 Islands.

• Travel through the heart of Ottawa via the Rideau Canal, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with  Rideau Canal Cruises or on the Ottawa River with  Paul’s Boat Line . Both will provide commentary on the landmarks you pass and the history of the city. 
• Families with younger kids are invited to climb aboard the interactive theatre cruise with  Pirate Adventures Ottaw a on Mooney’s Bay.
• St. Lawrence Cruise Lines  offers overnight cruises on the St Lawrence and Ottawa Rivers.
• Tour eastern Ontario’s 1000 Islands with  City Cruises Gananoque  on their signature ‘Lost Ships of the 1000 Islands Cruise’ or on the ‘Palaces and Palisades Cruise’ with  Rockport Cruises .
• 1000 Islands Cruises sets out from Kingston on a spectacular three-hour “Heart of the Islands” sightseeing tour as well as unforgettable dinner cruises.
• You’ll love the friendly atmosphere of the 45-passenger Kawartha Voyageur Riverboat on multi-day trips on the Trent-Severn with  Ontario Waterway Cruises .

With a steamship heritage that out-dates Canada, cruising is a must-do in Muskoka and Georgian Bay.

• Experience the  RMS Segwun , the oldest continually operating mail steamship in North America.
• Muskoka’s magical landscapes set the stage for an evening of drinks, dining and cruising with  Lady Muskoka .
• For family-friendly, “high-sea adventure”, join  Muskoka Steamships  on the Pirate Cruises departing from Gravenhurst. Dress up for the themed excursions that engage with other ships on the pirate-infested waters of Lake Muskoka.
• Explore the 30,000 islands and beautiful sites in Georgian Bay with  Georgian Spirit Cruises out of Midland or Parry Sound Cruise Line .
• Admire the turquoise waters and famed shipwrecks in  Fathom Five National Marine Park  and iconic Flowerpot Island aboard a glass-bottom or jet boat cruise with Bruce Anchor Cruises or  Blue Heron Cruises in Tobermory.
• Ojibwe for ‘big canoe’, the  MS Chi-Cheemaun  offers so much more than just a ferry service between Tobermory and Manitoulin Island. Check the schedule for their special sunset dining and ‘stargazers delight’ night cruises.
• Cruise the crystal clear waters of Georgian Bay and take in the gorgeous sunset with Shaka Wasaga Boat Cruise .

From Nipissing to Lake of the Woods, the legendary lakes of Northern Ontario are unforgettable.

• The  Chief Commanda II  cruises into the magnificent vistas of Callander Bay on Lake Nippissing in North Bay.
• All hands on deck for a guided outing with  Sail Superior  out of Thunder Bay for an unforgettable journey on the greatest of the Great Lakes. Heart-pounding tours ranging from 30 minutes to six hours on the 12-person Zodiac aptly named the " Superior Rocket ". Or opt for a more leisurely Wine & Cheese Cruise aboard their 12 metre (40-foot) vessel.
• A visit to Kenora in Sunset Country isn’t complete without a sundowner aboard the  MS Kenora , while cruising the scenic water of Lake of the Woods.
• The 26 metre (85-foot) yacht  Grace Anne II is a picture of elegance and craftsmanship. She also sails across Lake of the Woods to the all-inclusive  Grace Anne II Lodge .

Southern Ontario also has its share of amazing boat tours and cruises.

• Dial up the romance with dinner, drinks and dramatic sunsets. Toronto’s skyline at night is an impressive setting for  City Cruises ’ sunset dinner and cocktail sail in the harbour. 
• Grand River Cruises ’ evening excursions set out just south of Hamilton on the scenic Grand River and treat you to a four-course dinner.
• For the adrenaline seekers,  Whirlpool Jet Boat Tours  will zip you out on a one-hour, high-speed ride through the rapids below Niagara Falls, leaving you soaked and stoked.

Pack your passport and chart a multi-day course on these splendid voyages.

• Pearl Sea Cruises explores the Great Lakes and Georgian Bay on 7 and 11-night trips.
• Viking Expeditions also sails the Great Lakes as well as the Niagara River.
• Ponat multi-day cruises travel from Toronto across Lake Ontario, Lake Erie and Lake Huron.

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Niagara Falls is a natural phenomenon that attracts millions of tourists every year. Whether you’re looking for adventure or relaxation, there are plenty of things to do in Niagara Falls that will make your trip unforgettable.

Niagara Falls History

The history of Niagara Falls is as vast and beautiful as the falls themselves. About 12,000 years ago, erosion from melting Ice Age glaciers created the Niagara River’s majestic waterfalls, which run along the border between Canada and the United States. These natural marvels are one of North America’s most popular tourist destinations in Niagara Falls State Park.

Due to its location on the southern end of Lake Erie and at the beginning of Lake Ontario, this region has always been an important transportation corridor for travelers heading westward across North America.

Fun Activities in Niagara Falls

Niagara Falls has something fun for everyone in your group, regardless of age. Here are a few of the most popular activities people do when visiting Niagara Falls.

Take a Boat Cruise

Niagara Falls is best experienced by taking a boat cruise. However, get closer than most tourists by taking an evening cruise where you can see how different lights play off each other at night. Niagara City Cruises is the official supplier to Niagara Parks, providing Canada’s only Niagara Falls boat tour experience.

Niagara City Cruises – Voyage to the Falls

The 20-minute Voyage to the Falls boat tour will take you on the journey of a lifetime! Enjoy breathtaking views of the Niagara Gorge, American Falls and Bridal Veil Falls, and come face-to-face with the famous Canadian Horseshoe Falls. Feel the thunderous roar and incredible power of one of the world’s most stunning natural wonders.

Niagara City Cruises – Falls Fireworks

Marvel at the nightly Niagara Falls Illumination light show from the water on the Falls Fireworks cruise . Every evening beginning at dusk, Niagara Falls is transformed into an incredible, multi-coloured water and light masterpiece. Then at 10:00 pm each night from Victoria Day weekend to Canadian Thanksgiving (weather permitting), enjoy an unforgettable evening in Niagara Falls with a jaw-dropping fireworks displays against the backdrop of the American and Canadian Horseshoe Falls.

Niagara City Cruises is located at 5920 Niagara Pkwy, Niagara Falls, ON L2E 6X8, Canada.

Outdoor Recreation

Niagara Falls parks, trails and gardens are easily accessible to biking, hiking, walking – or even just a nice afternoon picnic. The Niagara Parks Botanical Gardens offers 40 hectares (99 acres) of beautifully maintained gardens to explore and is home to the Butterfly Conservatory , providing a truly enriching experience for all seasons. The heart of the Niagara Parks, Queen Victoria Park celebrates every season in style with a visual spectacle, from daffodils and tulips in spring to tree branches covered with the freezing mist of the Falls in winter. Niagara gardens such as the Parks Floral Showhouse , Centennial Lilac Garden , Floral Clock , Dufferin Islands , Oakes Garden Theatre and Queenston Heights Park provide inspiration and delight. Whether by foot or bike, discover 56 kilometers (35 miles) of historical and horticultural sights along the Niagara River Recreational Trail , described by Sir Winston Churchill as “the prettiest Sunday afternoon drive in the world.” The Recreational Trail connects Fort Erie to Niagara-on-the-Lake , meandering through parkland with views of the Niagara River and winding past places of historical and cultural interest, Niagara Falls, wineries, lookout points and beautiful homes.

Book a Tour

Local companies offer sightseeing tours of Niagara and the Falls, while visitors may also indulge a particular interest with a themed Niagara tour. Niagara wine tours traverse the region in search of the perfect Chardonnay, double decker tours lend a different perspective to the city, or Niagara adventure tours take visitors on a whirlwind of the area’s most exciting attractions.

Taking a tour in Niagara Falls will allow you to interact with knowledgeable tour guides that can give you all the valuable tid- bits of everything Niagara. Often times they take the burden a way of finding your way, parking and in some cases front of the line options at Niagara Falls attractions. Taking a combination tour between Niagara-on-the-Lake and Niagara Falls is a great way to spend the week in Niagara.

Go Shopping

Head to the Canada One Factory Outlet on Lundy’s Lane with over 20 brand name stores or visit the Outlet Collection in Niagara-on-the-Lake , a unique open air collection of over 100+ brand name stores.

Within the heart of the tourist district there are also many shopping options. On Clifton Hill there are a number of shops where you can pick up souvenirs from your visit to Niagara Falls.

If you are looking for shopping decadence then we would recommend the Fallsview Casino Resort Shopping Galleria , great shops integrated with great restaurants and a Casino right there for a one stop shopping experience.

See the Falls from Skylon Tower

The Skylon Tower is a 456-foot tower with a 360-degree observation deck, giving fantastic views of the falls. You can also see Lake Ontario, Navy Island, and Toronto.

Walk Across the Rainbow Bridge

The Rainbow Bridge is a pedestrian suspension bridge that spans the Niagara River between Rainbow Boulevard in Niagara Falls, New York, and Prospect Avenue in Niagara Falls, Ontario.

The bridge was built in 1938 by the Canadian Pacific Railway company to carry passengers between both sides of the river. Still, it is now open to pedestrians 24 hours a day and year-round. Canada and the United States have designated the structure as a National Historic Civil Engineering Site. In addition, it won an award for its beauty at its dedication ceremony.

Take a Helicopter Tour

Helicopter tours are a great way to see the falls from a different perspective. While you won’t be able to fly directly over the falls, you can see them from above. You’ll also get breathtaking views of Lake Ontario and its surrounding towns. Book your tour in advance because they sell out quickly on busy days.

Wineries, Breweries and Distilleries in Niagara Falls

Niagara Ontario Canada has become famous for its wines. Whether you are looking for wineries in the Niagara Region, or a specific winery in Niagara-on-the-Lake , Niagara is gaining international recognition as ‘must visit’ destination to enjoy a beautiful country escape with a bit of food and drink. Twenty-five vineyards dot the landscape just 15 to 20 minutes outside Niagara Falls, Canada in quiet and charming Niagara on-the-Lake. The entire Niagara wine region along the shores of Lake Ontario is home to over 50 wineries. Discover the best of the region’s vineyards by following the Wine Route of Ontario through the countryside by car, bike or guided tour . Many Niagara wineries have restaurants, where they pair their fine wines with regional cuisine, and an overnight outing can easily be arranged at nearby a bed-and-breakfast or inn for a Niagara Falls romantic getaway . And if you fall in love with our wine, consider planning a Niagara vacation around one of our popular annual Niagara festivals . The Niagara Wine Festival, which occurs annually in autumn, includes tours and tastings at Niagara vineyards, concerts, Niagara cuisine, artisan shows, and family entertainment. The Niagara Icewine Festival in January celebrates Ontario’s most famous wine in a winter wonderland setting, and the Niagara New Vintage Festival in summer gives visitors a chance to be the first to try the year’s wines.

Visit Old Fort Erie

Old Fort Erie is a National Historic Site of Canada. It was built in 1812, making it one of the first buildings in Fort Erie. This fort was a key site during the War of 1812 and played an important part in Canadian history.

This remarkable site features three main attractions:

The restored Officers’ Quarters: houses exhibits that discuss life within a military garrison.

The Blockhouse: a fortified structure with artifacts from several wars, including American Independence, War of 1812, and World War II.

The Museum exhibits military life, including uniforms and weapons used by soldiers.

Ride the Niagara SkyWheel

If you like to get out of your comfort zone, then the Niagara SkyWheel is for you. The tallest observation wheel in Canada, the SkyWheel, is located on Clifton Hill in Niagara Falls. It has 42 air-conditioned gondolas that can fit up to 8 people each and offers spectacular views of both sides of the falls (especially at night). The best part? It’s open year-round.

Dine Looking at the Falls

Table Rock House Restaurant is located in the Table Rock complex, known for its views of Niagara Falls. The restaurant has a seasonal outdoor patio and indoor seating with great views of the falls. So whether you sit in the dining room or at the bar, you can enjoy your meal while looking out at one of nature’s most legendary displays: Niagara Falls.

Experience the Theatre in Niagara Falls

When looking for theatre or shows in Niagara Falls, there’s an eclectic choice of Niagara entertainment for the entire family at one of our many theatres. Enjoy a Las Vegas style magic show at the Greg Frewin Theatre , or see dramatic productions chronicling the history of Niagara Falls at the Niagara Falls Adventure Theatre . From family-friendly entertainment to a couples-night-out, select from one of these shows for a well-rounded Niagara Falls getaway.

If you’re a theatre buff then you’ve heard of the famous Shaw Festival Theatre in Niagara-on-the-Lake . Only minutes away from Niagara Falls, the Shaw Theatre host an amazing selection of must-see live theatre productions.

What is the Best Time of Year to See Niagara Falls?

The peak tourist season is summer. However, spring and fall provide for a quiet getaway if you prefer not to deal with crowds and long lines.

However, not to be overlooked, Niagara Falls has a breathtaking calm during winter when ice and snow turn the Falls into a majestic winter castle.

The weather at Niagara Falls can dramatically affect whether your trip will go smoothly or turn into a disaster zone. Between June and September (and even into early October), the average temperature is in the 80s. Spring and fall temperatures range from 40F to 70F, while the cold Canadian wind keeps winter below zero.

Make sure to wear layers no matter when you visit Niagara Falls, so you are prepared for any weather changes.

Is Niagara Falls in Canada or New York?

Niagara Falls is located in both countries because it lies on the border between Canada and the United States. However, activities, dining, accommodations, and shopping vary significantly between the Canadian and American sides.

Do I Need a Passport to Go to Niagara Falls, Canada?

Yes. A Passport (or a Passport Card or Enhanced Driver’s License if coming by land) is required for crossing the border into Canada unless you are age 15 or younger. Please visit the government website for any further details.

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Kingston 1000 Islands Cruises

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Explore Kingston's historic scenery on a Discovery Cruise. Or, experience the 1000 Islands on a 3-hour Heart of the Islands Cruise.

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Dining in the 1000 Islands is our signature experience. Relax at a reserved table on a Sunset Dinner Cruise aboard the Island Star.

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Kingston’s food, fun and entertainment ships are available for private charter. Captivate your guests with history, ambiance, landscape and location.

Our theme is Food, Fun and Entertainment!

Cruises sail from April to October. Kingston 1000 Islands Cruises is the premiere cruise line in the 1000 Islands region, consistently ranked as one of the top things to do, and as a top attraction in Kingston, Ontario.

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Visit Kingston and the Islands

Kingston is a vibrant town in Eastern Ontario, rich in Canadian history and culture. Our close proximity to the famous 1000 Islands region, attracts tourists from all over the world to visit, stay and explore the area. As the largest city bordering the Canadian side of the 1000 Islands, Kingston offers plenty to see and do including cruises, trolley tours, and more:

Trolley Tours

Accommodations

Discover local sights along Kingston’s historic waterfront on a 1-hour Discovery Cruise or take in views of the 1000 Islands during our famous 3-hour Heart of the Islands Cruise.

Dining in the 1000 Islands is our signature experience: Relax at a reserved table and enjoy live entertainment with a delicious meal.

Great cruise. Table view was really great. Food was good, roof was great with lots of nice views. Captain and crew are very nice and professional. Entertainment was really excellent and funny. My wife and I really enjoyed it. We will definitely do it again. – Lunch Cruise Guest

We had the privilege of taking your lunch cruise. What a fantastic experience!!! I have taken other cruises, and even boated through the 1000 Islands many times on my own boat. Your cruise was tops! Good food, Great service, Very enjoyable. – Island Queen Lunch Cruise Guest

The trolley was a wonderful way to see everything! It saved finding a parking spot and getting lost. My daughter, her sons and I had a wonderful experience in Kingston. The trolley drivers were very informative and answered a variety of questions. – Kingston Trolley Tour Guest

Our cruise was extremely enjoyable and the fine dining experience was nothing short of amazing. The entertainment was also top notch with a beautiful sunset adding to our experience. Staff were very attentive. This was our second dinner cruise experience. – Sunset Dinner Cruise Guest

We had a wonderful time. Loved the entertainment and our server was amazing!!! First time any of us visited Kingston to go on the cruise. Loved every minute of it. Food was very good as well. I have already recommended the cruise to friends and will continue to. -Island Star Lunch Cruise Guest

Overall experience was fantastic, our guests were very happy. Would recommend and would rent again for future parties! – Privately Chartered Event

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Cruising the Upper Ottawa River

Editor's Note: Craig Nicholson is easily one of the most well-traveled boaters in Ontario (to say nothing of his knowledge of Ontario snow trails.) Watch for his next article on the lower section of the Ottawa River, or watch the video of a truly epic tour he led last year from Pembroke to New Liskeard . Or check his article on cruising the lower half of the Ottawa River  from Montreal to Canada's Capital Region.

One of the most unique trailer boating experiences on Ontario waterways is the Upper Ottawa River . Whether you own a PWC, runabout or cruiser, adventuring on to this Ontario wilderness route must be on your go ride bucket list. I’ve been on a lot of Sea-Doo tours , but nothing matches the serenity, majesty and unspoiled beauty of this Ottawa valley gem. Best of all, it’s wide, deep, easily navigable and usually pretty calm. There are a few green or red navigation buoys as guideposts, but hardly any rocks or shallow spots.

boating from Pembroke to Mattawa

I’ve completed the entire 660-km return journey from Pembroke to Temiskaming Shores several times by Sea-Doo watercraft , but that’s more than most boaters may want to undertake first time out. Instead, I’d suggest the 300-km return ride from Pembroke to Mattawa . It’s a two-day jet-ski trip with an overnight at the riverside Valois Motel & Restaurant , which has its own docks. We staged out of the Pembroke Marina and stayed just minutes away at the Best Western Pembroke , which has ample parking for trucks and trailers. The Pembroke Marina has a good launch ramp and plenty of free parking.

boating from Pembroke to Swisha

The first leg of this voyage is about 65 kilometres from Pembroke to Rapides-des-Joachims (colloquially known as “Swisha”). On our Sea-Doo watercraft, we made this on one tank of fuel, but there’s also a marina with gas 46 km from Pembroke at Deep River . Cruising our Sea-Doo’s along at about 60 kph, the ride from Pembroke to Swisha took us one and a half to two hours, with photo stops along the way, including at Oiseau Rock and the Chalk River Laboratories .

Swisha Transfer for boats

At Swisha, there’s a major hydro dam blocking the way. Fortunately, the  municipality  bypasses the dam with a transfer trailer capable of holding five PWCs or boats up to about 32’. We  pre-booked our transfers  (outbound and return the next day) and gassed up at  Lance’s Convenience Store  while our watercraft were on the trailer. If you’re hungry, there’s also a hamburger stand at the launch presently open Tuesday to Sunday from 11:30 am. Count on the one-way transfer taking about an hour including fuelling.

boating from  Swisha to Mattawa

The second leg of this amazing odyssey is about 84 km from Swisha to Mattawa. Included is the only deviation from running straight up the river is at Rocher Capitaine Island , about 26 km after the transfer at Swisha. Here, the route bears to port around the inside of the island to avoid rocks mid-stream.

Once again, we made Swisha to Pembroke on one tank of PWC fuel with about a quarter tank to spare. But be aware that there hasn’t been gas available at the Mattawa Marina for several years, although I keep hearing it may be soon. That’s why we stayed at the Valois Motel. When reserving rooms, tell reception that you’re arriving by PWC or boat and will need gas. As it did with us, the motel will arrange someone with a truck to bring it in jerry cans for you.

The return trip is equally easy, following the same route and with the same stops along the way. But there’s a neat side trip up the Dumoine River, which empties into the Upper Ottawa about 8 km west of Swisha. We ran several kilometres upstream up to the rapids with enough fuel left to get back to the Swisha transfer site.

For PWCs cruising along at 50 kmh or more, this is an easy two-day ride. In a runabout or cruiser, your timing and fuel needs will be different, but your enjoyment will still be mighty high. Whatever way you do the Upper Ottawa River, it will make one of your absolute best boating memories!

Plan Your Boat Trip on Ontario's Waterways!

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Popularly known in the summer as “The Intrepid Cottager,” Craig Nicholson is a freelance journalist, writer and communications consultant who specializes in motorized recreational activities, including personal watercraft. As an avid Sea-Doo rider, Craig logs over 100 hours and 3,000 kilometres (1,800 miles) on the water most summers on many waterways in Ontario and Quebec. His one-of-a-kind Intrepid Cottager website features his Sea Doo tour articles, PWC riding tips, product reviews and comment.

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