The stretch of water between Manitoulin Island and Killarney is one of the most scenic boating routes in Ontario. The North Channel offers ancient quartzite mountains, crystal-clear freshwater fjords, thousands of islands, and world-class fishing, all within reach of your own boat or a rental from one of the local marinas. Whether you're chasing walleye in the shallows, anchoring overnight in Baie Fine, or watching the sun go down over McGregor Bay, this is the kind of water that turns a one-time trip into a yearly tradition.
I am lucky to have grown up with this amazing stretch of shoreline, crystal clear waters, and epic mountain views as my backyard. Life was always built around the water, through my family and community. Growing up and exploring this magical place daily led me to develop a career where I now share this with others. If you are looking to boat one of the most scenic, untouched, and beautiful waterways in Ontario, here are my recommendations to enjoy your time on the water from Manitoulin Island to Killarney.
This stretch of water offers amazing fishing opportunities. Whether you are looking to DIY or hire a local guide, this is the place to catch the big one. A large variety of species roam these waters — Musky, Pike, Salmon, Walleye, Trout, etc. Whether you are casting the shallows or trolling the deep parts of the lake, this is some unreal fishing and guaranteed to create lasting memories.
Spend a day boating to Baie Fine from Birch Island, Manitoulin Island, or Killarney — one of the most beautiful freshwater fjords in the world. A narrow passage, surrounded by ancient quartzite mountains, leads to a mountain lake hike in Killarney Provincial Park. Pull your boat up at the bottom of the pool, and with a quick hike up, you will arrive at the stunning Lake Topaz.
This is a well known site for those with a yacht or sailboat, with a variety of anchorages throughout the Fjord. What is better than waking up surrounded by quartzite mountains. There is also a variety of beaches where you can relax and enjoy the water.
Head into McGregor Bay and navigate endless skinny channels and islands where you can take in pink skies and the silhouettes of windswept Georgian Bay pines. Stunning views, paired with a peaceful, jaw-dropping sunset—it’s truly the perfect way to spend an evening on the water.
While McGregor Bay is known for its epic sunsets, it’s also famous for its unique waterways, thousands of islands, remote beaches, incredible scenery, and frequent wildlife sightings. Surrounded by the La Cloche Mountains, there isn’t a bad viewpoint, whether you’re boating, fishing, camping, or hiking. It’s a gateway to Killarney Provincial Park and access to endless Crown land waiting to be explored.
Head to Killarney, where you can visit the high-quality dining of Killarney Mountain Lodge, and hidden local gems like the Gateway Restaurant and Bakery. Once you are full from all the local dining options, you can head down the picturesque Collins Inlet and venture to Killarney Bay, or spend time relaxing in Covered Portage. Endless boating opportunities around Killarney.
That is right — Manitoulin is the world’s largest freshwater island. It has endless offerings to fill up an itinerary, exploring the waterfront towns. Some of my favourite things to do while boating around the island: boat under the iconic Swing Bridge, go for lunch at the new Dockside Social, or head over to Wikwemikong and book a tour with Wikwemikong Tourism.
Birch Island
Little Current
Killarney
Birch Island
Wikwemikong
Little Current
Birch Island
Manitoulin Island
Killarney
