Ontario's Top 5 Boating Locations

As a pro powerboat racer, I've had the opportunity to visit some of the most amazing boating locations around the world, and in my opinion Ontario has the most beautiful waters. What A Ride asked me to put together a list of my Top 5 favourite locations—I could've listed many many more, but my heart definitely belongs to these five. I hope you enjoy discovering them as much as I enjoyed reminiscing about them. 

Go Home Lake

Muskokas: a piece of pure heaven called Go Home Lake in the Township of Georgian Bay. “Go Home,” as locals call it, was created in the 1950s by the construction of two dams. It was named after Go Home Bay, immediately downstream. Loggers would send timber down the Musquash River to steamers waiting at Go Home Bay that would then transfer the big logs to various mills around the Great Lakes before they'd “go home” (hence the name).

The majority of approximately 450 cottages are water-access. Boaters can access the lake via two marinas: Minor’s Bay (originally called “Potter’s Landing”) and Go Home Lake Marina. The marinas offer a boat launch, refueling facilities, parking, and a general store. Go Home is popular for not only boating but fishing, cliff-diving, canoeing and, of course, its annual regatta. One of the great things about this unique little lake is the friendliness of the cottage owners and their respect for keeping the lake debris-free and nature preserved.

Georgian Bay

On any given weekend—when we felt like more adventure—we would portage from Go Home into Georgian Bay, another favourite location. The “shoot,” as it's known among local Go Home Lakers, offers adventurists the chance to discover the crystal blue waters of the largest bay on Lake Huron. Georgian Bay connects the Trent-Severn Waterway to Lake Ontario, running from Port Severn through to Lake Simcoe into Lake Ontario near Trenton. It is a vacationer’s dream and I have so many great memories of exploring the thousands of gorgeous islands in the bay.

Muskoka Wharf

The Muskoka Wharf in Gravenhurst adds a different dynamic to Ontario’s beautiful locations. There are so many things to do and see that will guarantee memorable experiences. One of its many attractions, a place I love to spend time, is the Grace & Speed Muskoka Boat & Heritage Centre. This location is a must-see for all boating enthusiasts. The best weekend to discover the Muskoka Wharf is the first weekend in July as it hosts Canada’s largest in-water vintage boat show. This annual event attracts thousands of visitors to over 120 antique and classic boats displayed on land and in the water. This year they will have a display celebrating the 75th anniversary of Mercury Marine. Different generations of powerboat racers will display their boats. The event will offer, free admission to the Muskoka Boat and Heritage Centre included with admission. For more information go to http://www.acbs.ca

Toronto's Lakeshore

After enjoying the natural beauty of Muskoka, it is wonderful to change pace and discover the big city of Toronto. Cruising Lake Ontario is an amazing opportunity to see a variation of shore lines, landscapes, and experiences for boaters. My preference is cruising at night and taking in Toronto’s fantastic skyline. It's lovely during the day but absolutely breathtaking at night.

The Thousand Islands

The last of my five favourite places to boat in Ontario is also known as the busiest recreational waterway in the Ontario: The Thousand Islands provides something for everyone. This is one of the most scenic waterways in Canada and offers cruising, sightseeing, and an abundance of history. The Thousand Islands were created when glaciers scraped down the mountaintops during the last great ice age, shaping some of the most breath-taking scenery in the world.

There are many different locations to discover in Ontario; as long as you are on a boat with great friends and family you’ll have an incredible time.

Boat safe!

Showing 'Edited Body' is no longer supported.