10 Great Spots in Canada to Test Your Boating Skills

If you are a boating enthusiast, there is no place on earth better than Canada to find your ideal boating destination. Canada has the largest area of freshwater lakes in the world, which means people from all over the world travel to these majestic lakes and go boating in the clear water. Continually voted by tourism publications as one of the best places to visit in the world, Canada has everything to offer, from natural views to amazing infrastructure. Therefore, if you are looking for your ideal boating destination, Canada’s incredible lakes are calling out your name.

As fellow boating enthusiasts, we know just how important picking the perfect boating spot can be. It takes more than a beautiful lake to elevate your boating experience. Keeping all the necessary factors in mind, we have compiled a list of 10 great spots in Canada where you can go boating and have an experience of a lifetime. The North American country holds some genuine geographic wonders, and what better way to explore them than with a boat or kayak?

Difference Between Boating on Different Bodies of Water

While Canada is known for its beautiful lakes, it also has plenty of other bodies of water you can go boating in. However, any boating enthusiast will tell you that different bodies of water come with different boating experiences. Freshwater lakes have still water; therefore, if you are looking for a calming or relaxing boating experience, a lake should be your choice. However, if you crave for watersports that provide a bit more thrill, a river or strait will provide you with that adventure since they have currents you need to navigate while boating. Similarly, boating in the ocean needs more vigilance, and you need to display specific skills.

Thankfully, Canada has plenty of bodies of water to provide you with just the one you need for your desired boating experience. The geographical diversity, coupled with the ease of access to these waterways, makes boating in the country one of the best experiences of your life.

10 Great Spots in Canada to Test Your Boating Skills

As mentioned before, Canada is a treasure trove of waterways ideal for boating. While the natural beauty is the major attraction, the infrastructure surrounding it, its proximity to major cities, and the friendliness of locals are all factors that further elevate your boating experience. Frequently dubbed a boater’s paradise, Canada’s waterways are an experience you should be looking to cross off your bucket list. Here are 10 great spots for the next time you find yourself in the Great White North:

1. Trent Severn Waterway, Ontario

An excellent way to explore Ontario by boat, the Trent Severn Waterway is a delightful combination of natural activity along the hustle and bustle of a city. There are plenty of restaurants, shops, and bed and breakfasts along the water which cater to boaters. For those interested in the history of the area, there are also plenty of museums, galleries, and other historical sites which inform boaters about the rich past of the region. The Trent-Severn Waterway connects Lake Ontario to Lake Huron and provides boaters a chance to also indulge in wonderful activities, therefore, this makes for one of the most unique and unforgettable boating experiences. We highly recommend making an itinerary beforehand, so you don’t miss out on any activities along the way.

2. The Rideau Canal, Ontario

Running through Canada’s capital city of Ottawa, the Rideau Canal connects the city to Lake Ontario and the St. Lawrence River at Kingston. Rideau Canal’s history is also fascinating since it was constructed for military purposes when both United Kingdom and The United States fought to capture Canada. The waterway is 202 KM long and is one of the first UNESCO world heritage sites in the country. Boating through the canal is a surreal experience since it is a mixture of historical education plus a way to explore Ottawa and all it has to offer. Once a canal built to conquer the north of the North American continent, Rideau Canal is now one of the best boating experiences in the world. If you want to be educated, visit amazing places in the city, and enjoy the hospitality of locals, grab a boat, canoe, or kayak to cruise through Rideau Canal.

3. Northumberland Strait, Maritimes

The Northumberland Strait is an excellent spot for boating since its location means you can visit three different Maritime Provinces in Canada, depending on which shore you choose.  The connecting waterway between Prince Edward Island, New Brunswick, and Nova Scotia, the strait provides breathtaking views and the opportunity to explore Eastern Canada. The best part is that it is also the warmest waterway in Canada during the summer. Therefore, it is the ideal location for your summer boating getaway. Visit the lobster capital of New Brunswick for all your seafood dreams, or frolic around sandy beaches in Prince Edwards Island; the straits have a little something for everyone.

4. Harrison Lake, British Columbia

Just a few hours outside Vancouver, Harrison Lake is an ideal nature getaway from fast-paced city life. You can also explore rural British Columbia, especially the Harrison Hot Springs Village, which has just the laidback vibe you need to forget all the stress in your daily life. The village is also home to plenty of stunning nature trails you can explore. One of the biggest attractions of the lake is the white sturgeon fish, which is the oldest living species of fish in the world. If you want to catch one yourself or enjoy it prepared by locals as a delicacy, boating through Lake Harrison will be worth it for the incredible marine creature.

5. Muskoka Lakes, Ontario

The Canadian answer to the Hamptons, Muskoka, is one of the most exclusive summer regions. Filled with resorts, fine dining restaurants, water activities, the Muskoka region exemplifies a glamorous Canadian summer. Several granite-lined lakes make up the region’s waterways, the largest being Lake Muskoka. If you like your boating activities to be glamorous and topped off with going to the finest establishments, Lake Muskoka is your style.

6. Lake Manitoba, Manitoba

A few hours away from Winnipeg, Lake Manitoba Lake exemplifies all Manitoba has to offer in terms of waterways. Since the lake is relatively shallow and warm, it has become a popular destination for all kinds of water sports and walleye fishing.  If you enjoy powerboating, fishing, or swimming, Lake Manitoba is one of the best lakes in Canada to experience those activities safely. If you want to explore the area further, they have many marinas, trails, and beaches along its shorelines to explore.

7. Lake Minnewanka, Alberta

Gliding through the clear waters of Lake Minnewanka and enjoying a completely new perspective of the Rocky Mountains is a life-changing experience. The lake is located in the Eastern part of Banff National Park and is one of the best activities there. The park also has plenty of boats and canoes as rentals. Therefore, you can boat through the lake without any hassles.

8. Chaudiere-Appalaches Region on the St. Lawrence River, Quebec

Named for the Chaudiere River and the Appalachian Mountains, The Chaudiere Appalches is one of the most stunning regions in Quebec. Located on the shoreline of St. Lawrence River, the region has no shortage of activities for boaters to enjoy. From fine dining restaurants to historical sites, the region adds glamor and elegance to boating. Its proximity to the United States is also very helpful for boaters from across the border.

9. Lake Newell, Alberta

Lake Newell is the largest man-made lake in Alberta and is filled with tons of activities for you to enjoy. The lake also enjoys the status of being the fastest lake for sailing and windsurfing. Therefore, you can always count on it to get your fill of adrenaline. The lake also has an amazing provincial park on the shore, so make sure to explore it while there.

10. Kluane National Park and Reserve

Located in the Canadian North West, the lakes in the national park are frozen for seven months. However, if you do get a chance to boat through the national park in the summers, it is an experience of a lifetime. Declared a UNESCO world heritage site, the national park’s view is incomparable and beyond belief.

 

Conclusion

Canada is full of many amazing destinations to visit on the list above and many not on the list. Each destination you visit will be full of scenery and history that you will remember for the rest of your life. If we missed any great lakes you want to share comment below and we can update our list!

If you are just looking at getting into the boating scene or looking for a boat upgrade check out our huge selection of in-stock boats that are ready to take you on your next adventure!