rideau canal cruises ottawa to kingston

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Tour details

Rideau canal cruise.

Experience the historical Rideau Canal back to 1812 when it was introduced, with our cruises that take you along 202 km of beautiful lakes, rivers, and canals from Kingston to Ottawa.

Discover the richness of the region’s historical landmarks on board our brand new electric vessel, the largest 100% electric passenger vessel in North America. As part of the Ottawa Boat Cruise family with over 30 years of navigation experience, our team ensures your safety and answers your questions during your trip. 

Discover iconic heritage sites at every turn on your canal cruise.

Breathtaking views of landmarks, wonders & architecture..

Cruise Timings & Prices

From $40.50.

Scenic Locations

• University of Ottawa
• Canadian Museum of Nature
• Landsdowne Park
• Chateau Laurier Hotel
• National Arts Centre
• Shaw Centre
• Ottawa Locks

+ More. Discover 33 Breathtaking sights on the QED.

Parking map.

Information

• Please note that tickets for our cruises are non-refundable and valid only for the date and time selected. 
• Rescheduling is not permitted.
• Ottawa River Cruise (Gatineau Departure) : Paid parking is available at the Ottawa River Cruise Hull Marina.  
• Ottawa River Cruise (Ottawa Departure) : No parking is available at the Ottawa Locks. 
• Rideau Canal Cruise (Ottawa Departure) : For the Canal tour, paid parking is available at the National Arts Centre. 

Book your cruise today

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*** Please contact our office team, at (819) 246 3855 , for further information concerning tickets for attendants for special needs individuals. Someone will be more than pleased to provide you will the information you may need regarding our policy ***

Rideau Waterway Guide

Unesco world heritage site  (2007).

The Rideau Canal is one of the greatest civil engineering works of the 19th century, and is the oldest, continuously operated canal in North America. The Rideau Canal and Waterway was designated a National Historic Site in 1926 and a Canadian River in 2000. In 2007, it was declared a World Heritage Site by the United Nations as it celebrated it's 175th year of operation. It was recognized by UNESCO for it's place in Canada'a history, its amazing engineering feats, as well its beauty and importance to the area's development, both commercial and recreational. Seeing the lockmasters and crew manually cranking boats through the locks is the perfect vacation for a history buff or nature lover!

World-class cruising:

From Ottawa, Ontario, Canada's capital city on the Ottawa River to Kingston, Ontario on Lake Ontario, the historic Rideau Waterway may be explored by boat, automobile, and bicycle. Most watercraft can navigate the Rideau Canal ( Size limits ).

The Rideau Waterway and its water-side towns constitute one of the most popular tourist and recreation areas in Ontario. Every year, tens of thousands of boats pass through its locks, and millions more visit its parks, beaches, and historical sites. The waterway, an engineering marvel and amazing achievement in 1826, is a series of rivers, lakes and wetlands connected by man-made canals and locks, which passes through the rock and forest of the Canadian Shield, farms, and small towns - truly a cruiser's dream.

Watch "Tripping the Rideau Canal" for an amazing experience - a 4-hours cruise in REAL TIME from Manotick to Ottawa.

The canal and locks:

Water depths & bridge heights:.

The maximum size of boat that can normally use the Waterway channel and locks is 27.4m (90 ft) long, 7.9m (26 ft) wide, 6.7m (22 ft) high, and 1.5m (5 ft) deep -- or 1.2m (4 ft) for flat bottom boats with a width of 8m (26 ft). If your boat is close to these limits, or there are drought conditions, contact the Canal office before planning a cruise throught the Waterway. ( Canal Facts ) Water levels are controlled by dams and locks, but flooding or drought can affect water levels of lock sills and overhead clearances (Becketts Landing fixed bridge clearance is 6.7 m). Ask any lockmaster about water levels or check Notices to Mariners .

Hours of Operation:

Rideau locks operates from the Victoria Day weekend (mid-May) until Canadian Thanksgiving (mid-October). Summer hours from mid-June to the beginning of September are generally 9 am - 6 pm Monday to Thursday and 9 am - 7 pm Friday to Sunday. Hours are shorter in spring and fall. In spring and fall, contact the Beveridges Lockstation ( 613-359-5377 ) to arrange lockage into the Tay Canal. ( Parks Canada: Rideau Canal hours of operation | Rideau Boat Info (Twitter) )

Cruise Planning:

"How long does it take?" , everyone asks. It depends on the time of year, weather, and your boat habits. Spring/fall lock hours are shorter. In summer, it takes at least 4 days to travel the 202 km. waterway to the top of the Ottawa locks - if you don't stop and get lucky with weather and lock schedules. The Ottawa locks take another day to reach the Ottawa River. The end of July and long weekend in August is the busiest period and may take longer. A canoe takes 6 to 12 days. Planning stops to visit ashore and "rain days" will allow you to enjoy the trip more.

Remember, that to enter the Rideau Waterway from Kingston through the La Salle Causeway, cruisers must wait on a schedule for the lift bridge to open. Small boats less than 4.3 m (14 ft.) high may pass under the Causeway using the eastern boat channel instead.

Overnight docking, washrooms, picnic tables, garbage disposal and ice are available at most lock stations. Some have power outlets and showers. Washrooms are sometimes locked after hours. Canal fees are charged for locking and dockage separately - multiple-day and annual passes are available. Canal staff can answer your questions, or Parks Canada or their contacts ).

Boats can dock during the day at some town docks such as Portland and Seeley's Bay to shop. Some restaurants also offer docks to customers. Towns docks often have washrooms and parks nearby, and even free Wi-Fi. Some towns (Westport, Kingston) charge a day dock fee.

There are great walking trails at many lockstations, such as Ottawa, Burritts Rapids, Merrickville, Jones Falls and Kingston Mills. Enjoy the trip!

Our boat packing list for cruising the canal might save you from forgetting something important - like binoculars, sunscreen, and bug repellant! Read the diary contributed by boaters who made the trip. Links to more information .

Distances between Towns/Cities:

You can buy a pass for locking and overnight docking from the Lockmaster or Canal offices. Only a few decades ago locking and docking were free, but today only day-docking is free. Visiting cars pay to park at lockstations near cities. Camping can often be arranged for boaters travelling the waterway. Docks with power are available for a fee at resorts, marinas, towns and some lockstations.

A celtic cross near the mouth of the Canal says: In memory of 1,000 workers and their families who died building this Canal 1826-1832.

Rocks and tree stumps lurk outside the red and green spar buoys. From Kingston or Ottawa, you rise with each lock going "upstream" so the red pointed buoys are on your right and the green flat buoys on your left. A simple rule is red to the right when returning upstream - "red, right, returning" . (Place a piece of tape by the wheel marked in red and green to remind you, and reverse it at Newboro.) At Newboro Locks the locks take you back "downstream" and the buoys reverse - red buoys to your left (port) side and green buoys to your right (starboard).

Speed limits and "no wake" zones are clearly marked with floating markers. Watch your wake - swimmers, fishermen and paddlers can be easily injured. Boat wakes are a major problem on the Rideau Waterway. Local and provincial Police and Parks Canada are working together to solve the problem. Slow down and enjoy the waterways - the loons will thank you.

Not to be Missed:

This guide takes you from Kingston north to Ottawa. So, on with the cruise...

* Compass icons lead to Google Maps

Kingston is in a class of it's own for boaters. It is at the junction of the Rideau River, Lake Ontario and the St. Lawrence River. East leads you on to the Thousand Islands [sigh] and the Seaway. West leads you to the protected waters of the Quinte area. Check cruising hints before entering Kingston harbor.

First choice is Confederation Basin on the downtown waterfront behind the Martello Tower (the entrance is north of the light on the breakwater). Anchoring is not allowed inside the harbour. Phone the marina for reservations, then call on VHF channel 68 just before you arrive for docking instructions. It's within easy walking distance to a wide assortment of restaurants, stores, theatres and bars. Laundry, telephones, showers, and ice are on shore. Security is better than most -- you'll get a "card" to enter the docks.

There is a grocery store a few blocks from the Basin (north of Princess St.), near the liquor store (which sells some beer). The beer store and another supermarket are a long walk up Princess Street. Last time I took a taxi back, the driver moved my purchases to a dock cart without even asking! I won't recommend restaurants -- too many good ones within a short walk.

In summer, there is daily entertainment in the park in front of City Hall (the big building with the clock tower and wind vane on top). There's a farmers market behind it several times a week where you can buy vegetables, baking, flowers and crafts. You are close to the Kingston Theatre, the Marine Museum , Queen's University, and the Fort. If you get bored with Kingston, hop the free ferry (or take your own boat) for a short ride to Wolfe Island. You can dine at the Wolfe Island Inn if you reserve weeks ahead.

Portsmouth Harbor (Olympic Basin)

This large marina west of Kingston harbour has a marine store and restaurant. Between the two large marinas, Kingston Yacht Club also hosts small boats from reciprocating yacht clubs. Smaller marinas are located inside the causeway bridge leading to the Rideau Waterway. As you head under the bridge that leads to the Rideau Waterway, remember the old phrase "red right returning" to remind you that red buoys are on the right when returning from "sea" - yes, the sea is really behind you.

The "Frontenac", the first steamship to navigate Lake Ontario, was built and launched near Kingston, then a shipbuilding centre, on September 7, 1816.

Kingston Mills

At Kingston Mills, you will meet boaters and paddlers from all over! There's a good museum and historical information to keep you busy while you wait. Trains may keep you awake here so continue on for a quieter overnight stay.

Upper and Lower Brewers locks

Here you can visit Doner Gallery in a historical Washburn gristmill west of the bridge. It has local art, metal sculptures and garden art. A small studio has stunning silver jewellery. You can also go apple-picking at Waddell’s Apple Orchards. It appears to be in the wilderness, but you can get a gourmet picnic delivered to your boat from Wendy’s Mobile Market which includes colour-coordinated linens, napkins and flatware. Life is good!

Seeley's Bay

On the way to Jones' Falls Lockstation you pass through a mix of small lakes and channels that wind through the granite bedrock. The village of Seeley's Bay is off the waterway but has a public wharf also used by rental boats, plus marinas and basic shopping.

Proceeding north, Morton Bay is a beautiful bay surrounded by tree-covered hills. The turn into the bay is marked with a red-green junction buoy. You can anchor or even tie up to "Rock Dundar" in a smaller boat. The rock rises 84m (275') - for those with hiking boots, trails lead to a lookout with spectacular views of the surrounding lakes. This is a lovely spot to relax or swim in nice weather. But don't go in the water after you feed the fish - I won't elaborate!

Jones' Falls

This lockstation with three locks and a turning basin has a lift of 17.8m (58.4'), the highest lift on the Waterway. There's a walking trail, swimming, and places to stay at the bottom of the lockstation. This area is particularly beautiful in the fall when the leaves turn color. The Great Stone Arch Dam above Jones' Falls was the highest dam in the world in 1832 when it was completed! ( map ) Constructed of interlocking tapered vertical stones, it was called the “Seventh Wonder of the World” at that time, and still is the most spectacular engineering structure on the canal. To get there take the Redpath Trail (1 km) over a long bridge, past the locks, visitor centre, and Sweeney House to the dam.

Shangri-La, south of the locks, offers dockage, power, fuel and a restroom. The Hotel Kenney resort, at the bottom of the locks, has been revamped and once again offers a restaurant and ice cream.

From here to the Rideau Lakes is one of the most beautiful small-boat cruises in the world, passing though lakes controlled by dams: Sand Lake, Davis Lock , Opinicon Lake, Chaffeys Lock , Indian Lake, Clear Lake, and beautiful Newboro Lake. This whole area is full of cottages, quiet bays, and first-rate fishing. Slow down for the loons who nest in this area!

Moor at Davis Locks if you're looking for peace and quiet. A restored Lockmaster's house is available for vacation rentals from Parks Canada, offering historic construction with modern amenities.

At Chaffey's Locks , the fabled Opinicon Lodge has attracted tourists, fishermen, paddlers and boaters since the late 1800s. The completely renovated resort has a pool, hot tub, showers, laundry, power, water and a restaurant. ( Opinicon is an Algonquin word meaning "gap between two waters.") Dorothy's Fishing Lodge is a smaller resort with a restaurant. There is a fish and chips place near the lock. Brown's Marina is a full-service marina with a small grocery and liquor store. Simmons Lodge began taking in tourists at the Simmons family home in 1886! This area is still known for its bass and pike fishing. Dothothy's Lodge offers a restaurant, a small beach and lawns, as well as being close to trails and an ice cream shop!

Rideau Lakes

You can easily spend a week here if you enjoy fishing, swimming, reading and boat-watching. You can buy supplies at small towns Westport, Portland and Perth. We took our first trips in a small rental boat to these lakes and were "hooked" on boating. Sadly, the iconic loons we listened to in the evenings are now on the "Threatened" species list (nests and chicks are lost in boat wakes ), but everything else is much the same.

Westport is a very picturesque town in the Upper Rideau with a public wharf where you can buy gas. Nearby you'll find groceries, liquor, hardware, fishing gear, banks, gifts and clothing. The beer store is a long walk. Eating out has great choices, such as "The Cove" for lunch, dinner, live music and dancing, "Tangle Gardens" for all-day meals, and "Steves" for pizza. The town owns it's own telephone and hydro companies, and it was the first community in Canada (1996) to use Freeze crystallization to turns sewage into snow!

The Narrows Locks is a great place for boat-watching. Dock at the "top" for a great sunset view - if it's not windy! It's one of the few lockstations that can have waves blowing in from the lake. Keep a pair of binoculars handy.

Colonel By Island (former Livingston Island) is a highy-recommended stop in the Big Rideau Lake. This is a taste of the genteel cottage life of these lakes. Your Canal mooring pass is valid here as it's operated by Parks Canada. It has good docks, washrooms, barbecues (bring briquettes), picnic tables, horseshoe pit and a huge firepit (bring wood, check for fire bans). Good swimming and trails. 48-hour camping for boaters only. Just remember, don't go fishing in the fish sanctuary!

Portland : Located at the south end of the Big Rideau Lake, the cottage crowd shops here - grocery store, hardware store, bank, liquor (LCBO) and beer store. There is also an art gallery-store within walking distance. Word on the dock is that Louis' Pizza is good. The Galley Restaurant, on the west side of town, has a great lake view from their deck and provides a dock in front while you eat. Len's Cove Marina, a full-service marina with pool, is also a reputable boat broker. There are other marinas and a town dock.

Returning to the Rideau Waterway, you can get dockage, gas, diesel, and boat service at Rideau Ferry Harbour just west of the bridge between the Big Rideau Lake and the Lower Rideau Lake. There is also a restaurant and a small store with basic supplies.

Perth - Tay Canal

From Lower Rideau Lake there is an amazing side trip starting at Beveridge Locks (Lower and Upper) to the historic town of Perth , with many stone buildings built in the 1800s. The 11-km cruise (7 miles) passes by the Perth Wildlife Preserve about half way along - watch for the Tay Marsh Lookout Tower on the left. It has a walking trail with deer, porcupines, birds, snakes, and turtles. Winding along the Tay River surrounded by tall grasses reminded me of the Florida Everglades.

The Last Duel Campground in Perth provides docking - this is where the last fatal duel was fought in Ontario. Small boats and dinghies can pass under a low bridge to reach the Tay Basin in the heart of the town, where you will find restaurants, arts and crafts, and summer festivals.

Murphy's Point Provincial Park provides a few small docks and a nice bay for anchoring.

If you are near shore, watch for wildlife. Burn off or scrub your grill after a barbeque and put away anything that might attract bears or racoons. Mosquitoes can be nasty along the waterway at certain times of the year, so pack long sleeves, repellant and something with "caine" at the end of the name! [ more ]

Smiths Falls

Smiths Falls is a good place to buy supplies as it's the largest town in the central part of the canal. Restaurants, LCBO, beer, laundromat, Canadian Tire and Walmart! The Independent Grocer is a long walk from the lock, but you can get a taxi back. Victoria Park can moor many boats in a holding basin between locks. There are stores and eateries on the main street by the bridge. If the water tastes of sulphur, drink beer instead! After you pass through the big lock, you may be permitted to tie up to the the wall at the Mariners Inn, which is a short walk to a supermarket and beer store. You can also moor at the park between Smiths Falls Detached Lock and Combined Lock.

Get answers to all your canal questions at the Rideau Canal Visitor Information Centre at 34 Beckwith Street near the bridge over the canal.

Merrickville

This town is known as the "Jewel of the Rideau". It is a picturesque village where we first discovered the beauty of the Rideau by renting a small cruiser from the boatyard. Peter Ayling said we had "missed" the best years on the waterway - of course, we later said the same thing to new visitors!

On the western edge of Merrickville is the Rideau River Migratory Bird Sanctuary , 800 hectares (2800 acres) that extends 5.6 km along the river - some of the best wetlands along the Rideau Waterway. Although it is accessible from Hwy. 43, this haven is possible due to the willing participation of landowners. This is NOT a park! Scientists from the Canadian Wildlife Service estimates that the traffic of geese and ducks is comparable to that found in staging areas in Ontario's Prince Edward County and around Wolfe Island in Lake Ontario.

Merrickville has many shops by the canal where you can buy old books, art, sculpture, crafts, hand-made clothing and antiques. Right near the canal is a canal museum as well as pubs and good restaurants. The historical village is full of stone buildings built of the same limestone as the locks - including one of the four blockhouses on the waterway. Walk across the bridge to see the stone ruins - you'll see artists set up easels on a nice day. It's easy to see why people drive here on weekends to eat, shop, and look at the boats.

Burritts Rapids

This is one of my favorite lockstations -- quiet, good swimming, lots of space to dock, slow pace. It has power available. There's a restaurant across the road with a washer and drier for the boaters! There is a wonderful walk on the Tip-to-Tip Trail to the picturesque village. The first bridge across the Rideau River was built here in 1824. It's interesting to note that the lockstation is in the Municipality of North Grenville, but the villages of Burritts Rapids, Kars, and Manotick are part of the City of Ottawa (amalgamated 2006).

Becketts Landing (Chart 1512) fixed bridge clearance is 6.7 m . Check with a lockmaster if you need information about water levels that affect clearances and depths on the charts.

Near Beckett's Landing , east of Kemptville, a dedicated group was restoring Canada's oldest registered sailing ship, "Canada" at Ludlow Boat Works (N 172). A century old, it was once one of the fastest ships of its kind. It sailed until 1965.

You will pass by Rideau River Provincial Park on the north shore, but it does not have any boat docking. After passing under the bridges at Kemptville , you'll come to Pirate Cove Marina on the right (gas/diesel, pumpout, dockage, service, repairs). The Baxter Conservation Area is on the west shore - you may be lucky to see Bob Harlowe's " Ice Cream Float " boat anchored there on summer afternoons selling cones to people on the beach. If it's not busy, he sells to passing boats.

There's a low concrete day dock in the village of Kars for small boats. [ map ] Just north is a small marina (photo).

A full service marina, Long Island Marina, is just past the village. Just beyond the bridge is "The Swan on the Rideau" pub in a Tudor-stye house with a "guest dock" for restaurant patrons. Beside it is another full-service marina, Hurst Marine, with a pool.

As you continue north, you will encounter fishing boats, canoes, kayaks, paddleboards, and swimmers - as well as ski boats and large cruisers going fast! As the river narrows, Kelly's Landing on the right (east shore) offers gas, a small store, and a dock for lunch on a lovely water-side patio. Manotick Marina (no fuel, pumpout, dockage) on the west shore at a speed zone - this is where we kept our first boat!

The lovely and historic Manotick village is your best stop for supplies before you enter the canal. You can use the day dock in Mahogany Harbour (or anchor), named for the mahogany boats that belong to members of the Manotick Classic Boat Club (MCBC) . You can find the 15-metre (50 ft) day dock and dinghy docks down a side channel of the Rideau Waterway.

If you need supplies within walking distance, dock at the Manotick Town Dock is on a side channel west of Manotick island. Turn west at the junction buoy N138 and proceed slowly for 700 metres. As the river widens into a bay called Mahogany Harbour, you will see a day dock on your left. It has small kayak docks on the back side and is very popular. Boats can also anchor in the bay, but notice it's only 300 m upstream from Watson's Mill Dam. Here's a map of the channel to the dock .

Climb the stairs and turn right on Manotick Main Street, then left at Currier St. into The Mews shopping center. It has Robinson's Independent Grocer, Rexall drugstore, Home Hardware, Beer Store, LCBO liquor, pet store, CIBC bank, clothing, shoes, dollar store, and several restaurants. Stay on Manotick Main Street for more stores and restaurants. 5-minutes farther takes you to the historic site Watson's Mill and Dickinson House . You can take free tours and buy books about the Rideau Canal, stone-ground flour and bread, and feed for the nearby ducks (kids love this). There's a used bookstore in the Carriage House. A gazebo in A.Y. Jackson Park across the river is perfect for photos.

At the east end of the bridge over the main Waterway channel (Bridge St @ River Rd.) is a Chinese take-out, pizza cafe with great breakfast, Tim Horton, TD Bank, Shoppers Drug. (A gas station is being constructed in 2019).

JManotick boat launch is beside the bridge in the main channel. The waterway continues through Long Islands Lockstation and Blacks Rapids Lockstation , where the shoreline turns more urban. It's a wonderful place to stop, fish, and picnic for visitors by water or land.

As you approach Hog's Back Lockstation , you'll see a popular beach on the right. This is where the canal and river part ways. The spectacular Hogs Back Falls on the Rideau River to the east and a canal with concrete walls to the west. The lockstation has a lift bridge that runs on a schedule (Parks Canada link below ). Small boats may be able to pass under the bridge.

Hartwells Lockstation might see dozens of boats pass through their two locks on a busy day, while hundreds of bikes and pedestrians cross over the lock doors between Carleton University and the Experimental Farm . The lockmaster orchestrates this 4-way traffic.

Heading north into Dow's Lake, you'll see Canada's Experimental Farm on the left, an urban agricultural research station including acres of trees, flowers, greenhouses, barns, and pathways by Dow's Lake. Almost every tree is labelled. The rock gardens are a favorite for wedding photos and the Fletcher Wild Flower Garden is a natural paradise. The Dow's Lake Pavillion has a marina with docks, gas/diesel, and restaurants. Boats may also tie up along the board-walk (not recommended unless someone stays on board at all times, as this is a public park).

The canal proceeds east from the lake into downtown Ottawa, past Ottawa University, to the Ottawa lockstation , nestled between Parliament Hill , the Chateau Laurier Hotel , the Bytown Museum , the National Arts Centre (NAC), the Shaw Centre , Westin Hotel , and Rideau Centre . There is a tourist kiosk by the NAC (613-239-5000 1-800-363-4465). The Byward Market and National Gallery are a short walk north. This is the heart of downtown, in the best city in Canada for touring and shopping on foot.

Across from the Arts Centre is 150 metres (500') of dockage along the east canal wall with a few power outlets. The Westin Hotel charges a day fee to use their pool, showers, etc.

City of Ottawa, RCMP and National Capital Commission have coordinated security patrols and cameras at the Ottawa Locks, the most popular stop along the waterway. You would be wise to adopt "city rules": dock with other boats who would recognize strangers, give everyone the police number (non-emergency 613-236-1222 ext. 7300), and always lock the boat with movable gear stowed when you leave the boat even for a few minutes.

Beside the Canal, Colonel By Drive is closed to traffic Sunday morning in summer from 9 am to 1 pm for cyclists, in-line skaters, runners and walkers. Rent a bike near the Ottawa locks.

Ottawa has an impressive flight of 8 locks lifting boats 24 metres (79 feet) down to the Ottawa River, taking 2 or more hours. This scene is duplicated in numerous paintings and photos of Canada's capital city. At the bottom of the locks, there is 45 metres (150') of government docks in the Ottawa River. The Rockcliffe Boathouse is 2 kilometres east on the Ontario shore, and Hull Marina is on the Quebec shore. The Ottawa River runs south-east to Montreal and the St. Lawrence River – west to Lake Ontario or east to the world.

There are festivals all summer close to the canal. The Tulip Fesival in May offers boat flotillas right after the canal opens for the season. Beautiful flower beds surround Dows Lake and all along the canal to Parliament Hill. Winter turns the canal into the world's longest skating rink highlighted by Winterlude festival in February.

Mute Swans can seen in the Rideau River from Hogs Back Falls to Rideau Falls on the Ottawa River. They are descendants of swans that were donated to the city by Queen Elizabeth II as part of Canada's 1967 Centennial.

Rideau Canal Traffic Statistics

2019 61,145 canal passages 2020 44,141 canal passages (7,767 moorings) 2021 61,534 canal passages (12,262 moorings) 2022 56,981 canal passages

2021 Rideau Canal Traffic Statistics Canal traffic in 2021 returned to pre-pandemic 2019 levels with more people taking to boating as a safe outdoor activity. Traffic was up 39.4% with a total of 61,534 vessel passages recorded through the locks, compared to 44,141 in 2020. This is almost identical to the 2019 number of 61,145 vessel passages. Moorings increased by 57.9% in 2021, back to 2019 levels, with 12,262 moorings compared to 7,767 in 2020. In total, during 2021, 69.3% of the boats were from Ontario, 29.2% from Québec, 0.8% from the United States and 0.7% "Other". In 2019, boats from the U.S. represented 9% of the vessel passages. Source: Watson's Rideau Canal: Statistics of the Rideau Canal

2022 Rideau Canal Traffic Statistics Boat traffic was down from 61,534 vessel passages in 2021 to 56,981 in 2022. Most of the vessels were from Ontario (69.7%), a fair number from Québec (21.6%), and few from the U.S. (7.8%).

Contacts & Information

• Archive 2004: Montreal to Quebec City in a Canoe
• Links to other sites

Ottawa Boat Cruise – Rideau Canal Cruise

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Ottawa insider blog.

Best ways to experience the Rideau Canal in Ottawa

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Plan your visit

Rideau canal national historic site, hours of operation.

The Rideau Canal National Historic Site is open annually with navigation season from May to October.

Fees for the Rideau Canal, including lockage, mooring, and camping.

Passes and permits

Seasonal and annual permits for lockage and mooring. Purchase online in advance.

Lockage and navigation

Locking through safely, nautical charts, technical data, navigational aids, real-time boater information.

Improvements and infrastructure

Status updates, info bulletins and frequently asked questions for critical projects underway across the system.

Current weather forecast for the Rideau Canal.

Site use for Special Events

Apply for a permit to rent space on the Rideau Canal for public and private special events.

Accessibility

Information on the accessibility services on the Rideau Canal.

Off Season on the Rideau Canal

The historic site is NOT maintained from October 15 - May 15 and is CLOSED to the public.

Lockstations

Locations, facilities and services, navigation data, contact information, lock history

New footbridge downtown Ottawa – Clearance of 6.7 metres (22 feet). Click here for more info .

The Rideau Canal runs between Ottawa and Kingston in Southern Ontario, both easily accessible by car and public transportation from Toronto (260 kilometres to Kingston) and Montréal (200 kilometres to Ottawa). The length of the canal itself can be accessed by road, bicycle, on foot or by boat.

Spring through fall is the most popular time to visit. Though the locks are closed in winter, there is skating, ice-fishing, cross-country skiing and snowshoeing.

How to get here

_Location name

34 Beckwith Street South Smiths Falls ON K7A 2A8

Phone 613-283-5170

Email [email protected]

The Rideau Canal's 22 lockstations are all accessible by road, and therefore by vehicle, bicycle or on foot. The canal lockstations are generally accessible by all-season roads.

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Cruising Canada’s Rideau Canal on the Small-ship Kawartha Voyageur from Kingston to Ottawa

Nov 5, 2021 | 2

Cruising Canada’s Rideau Canal on Kawartha Voyageur

By Judi Cohen

With only a handful of cruise lines operating in Canada due to COVID restrictions, I was on a mission to cruise on every small ship in the Province of Ontario, close to home in Toronto.

Cruising aboard Ontario Waterway Cruises’ Kawartha Voyageur was my third small-ship adventure in Ontario in a single month during the summer of 2021.

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I welcomed the opportunity to cruise the full length of the UNESCO World Heritage designated Rideau Canal system from Kingston to Ottawa, passing through 39 of its historic locks along the way. In total, according to Parks Canada , there are 47 locks in 23 lockstations; 45 locks on the main route, plus two locks that link the Tay Canal and the Rideau.

Cruising the pretty locks of Canada’s Rideau Canal. * Photo: Ontario Waterway Cruises

The Rideau Canal is an inland waterway between the Canadian capital of Ottawa and Lake Ontario, at Kingston. Completed in 1832 and today o ne of the oldest continuously operated canal systems in North America, the waterway spans some 125 miles (200km) and utilizes parts of the Rideau and Cataraqui rivers as well as a series of lakes, including Upper Rideau Lake.

Complementing the appealing scenery of the Rideau Canal was the affable crew.

The crew on the Kawartha Voyageur worked together as a team providing “cottage-like” friendly service while sharing their knowledge about the locks and the small towns we visited each day always with a smile.

For the accommodating crew, nothing was too much trouble!

So here’s my story about cruising Canada’s Rideau Canal aboard the intimate Kawartha Voyageur with just 34 passengers, including myself and my sister-in-law, Marla.

The charming 45-pax Kawartha Voyageur. * Photo: Judi Cohen

The Kawartha Voyageur

The 45-passenger Kawartha Voyageur , owned by Ontario Waterway Cruises Inc, was built in 1982, expanded in 1995 and again in 2000.

Since its inception, the Ackert family of Ontario Canada has owned and operated the one-ship cruise line.

A very proud Marc Ackert captained the boat for our cruise on Canada’s Rideau Canal. He and his brother John take turns at the helm.

Captain Marc at the helm. * Photo: Judi Cohen

RELATED: Read Ted’s account of his Kawartha Voyageur cruise back in 1997!

A Look Around the Main Deck

The ship has three passenger decks. All the cabins are on the Main Deck, with 22 doubles (including one larger cabin) and one single. All have windows that open at the top with screens.

Every cabin has a toilet and sink, with a curtain separating them from the bedroom area. (Yes, no door!)

Cozy Kawartha cabin. * Photo: Ontario Waterway Cruises

Four showers on the Main Deck aft are shared by all guests. When I was confirming this cruise with Joy from the Ackert family, she told me to bring a bath robe for walking in the hall to and from the showers.

I was a little concerned about sharing a shower in the era of COVID, however, we found the shower stalls clean every time with ample supplies of body wash, bath mats and fluffy white towels.

Also accessed from the Main Deck is the hinged bow with seating to enjoy a waterline view.

The blue bow area is a great place to perch. * Photo: Judi Cohen

What’s What on the Upper Deck

The dining room and lounge (with a small library) are on the Upper Deck.

An elevator and stairs connect the Main and Upper decks, while stairs are the only option for reaching the Sun Deck.

Configured with tables of eight, a tasteful table-top wood and glass screens created separation for two guests in each area to meet the ever-changing provincial COVID restrictions in the dining room. Sunlight filled the room during our mealtimes.

Judi in the sunny dining room. * Photo: Marla

Scrumptious blueberry pancakes. * Photo: Judi Cohen

A menu for each meal was placed on our table. While there was only one main course for lunch and dinner, we always had a choice of salad or soup to start, and a dessert at each meal.

Fresh salads! * Photo: Judi Cohen

We were always asked if they could bring us second helpings of just about everything on the menu.

Now, the menu wasn’t comprised of haute cuisine, but rather home-cooked meals with local ingredients made with love.

All of the breads, cakes and cookies were baked on the ship.

In addition to three meals, we were offered snacks three times a day, including carrot cake and ice cream. Needless to say, we were never hungry!

Homemade carrot cake in the works! * Photo: Judi Cohen

Comfortable seating was located around the lounge and along the windows providing a panoramic view as we cruised. In one corner was a small library area. The lounge was well-used by passengers who wanted to read, do needlepoint and chit-chat to each other during the day and in the evening.

A Tour of the Sun Deck

A moveable sunroof over about half of the top deck provided a comfortable space to enjoy cruising along the canal with loads of tables and chairs.

Judi & Marla chilling on deck. * Photo: Judi Cohen

Kawartha’s top deck. * Photo: Ontario Waterway Cruises

When we passed under low bridges, Captain Marc announced that we had to remain seated, and at times the roof was lowered.

Weather-permitting, fresh water and snacks were served up top.

It was fascinating to see how the captain’s quarters on this deck could be lowered when passing under some bridges.

Just like the video shows below, Captain Marc popped open a roof hatch, poked his head out and drove the ship perfectly until we were clear of the overhead bridge structure.

What the Other Passengers Were Like

All but two passengers, who hailed from Quebec, were Ontarians.

Marla and I were the youngest in our mid-60’s.

Judi & Marla on deck.

We were two of only seven first-time cruisers with Ontario Waterway Cruises, the remainder have taken at least 10 previous cruises, and for some this was their 25th time!

The company reports some 50% of its passengers are repeaters.

It felt like we were one big family as we got to know each other at mealtimes and on the outdoor decks. Passengers shared stories about their many adventures with Ontario Waterway Cruises and how it felt like “coming home” on the Kawartha Voyageur.

A family vibe permeates Kawartha Voyageur. * Photo: Ontario Waterway Cruises

I met many retired engineers and business executives, accomplished writers and doctors, most of whom knew each other from previous cruises.

During a normal, non-COVID season, many of the repeat passengers would have been from the United States and other parts of Canada.

Passengers gather in the dining room for an info session. * Photo: Judi Cohen

Here’s the Skinny on our Cabin

We called Cabin 18 on the Main Deck our small yet cozy home for five nights cruising Canada’s Rideau Canal. It took a day or two to get comfortable with the lack of privacy while using the toilet that was separated from the sleeping area with just a curtain.

There are also two public toilets on the ship that for use at any time. The four shower rooms shared by all passengers, had shampoo, conditioner, body soap, and plenty of towels.

Our cabin had comfortable twin beds that were very close to each other. Summer camp for adults!

The cabin was so tiny that only one of us could get dressed next to our beds at a time, and this created many laughs each day!

Standing room only in Judi’s cabin! * Photo: Judi Cohen

I did not bring much baggage, just one soft bag. Everything found its place in the shelving, on large hooks and in a mirrored storage cabinet above the sink.

It was nice to have a window that opened with a screen so we could see out while we were laying down. Hand soap, makeup remover pads and towels were provided in the cabin.

Our Itinerary for Kawartha Voyageur —   5 nights, 6 days from Kingston to Ottawa

During our slow journey from Kingston to Ottawa we cruised through 39 of the 47 locks on the Rideau Canal and travelled a total of 202 kilometres (124 miles).

The 5-night Rideau Canal itinerary cruises between Kingston & Ottawa, traveling about 125 miles.

Only three of the locks were automated — one at Smiths Falls, one at Newboro and one at Black Rapids — and so watching lock crews cranking open the lock doors the old fashioned way was part of the fun.

We disembarked at the Hartwell Lock in Ottawa. As such we did not go through the two locks at Hartwell and the eight locks at the parliament.

Along the way cruising Canada’s Rideau Canal, we were able to walk along the footpaths beside the locks.

Walking along Canada’s Rideau Canal to watch Kawartha Voyageur glide past. * Photo: Judi Cohen

I imagined what it would be like to ride bicycles along these footpaths as they do along some of the European canals.

It became quite routine as we approached each lock for the captain to raise the bow so the ship could fit in each lock chamber. No other vessels were in the lock when our ship entered.

The Bow of the Kawartha Voyageur folded up to fit into each lock chamber. * Photo: Judi Cohen

Day 1 (July 23) — Embarking Kawartha Voyageur & Overnighting in Kingston

We arrived in Kingston Ontario just in time to board at 8:30pm on the Crawford Wharf. Following a short welcome by the captain and getting settled in our cabin, we walked along the busy waterfront and through the downtown area.

The full “strawberry” moon cast a glow on the 19th-century Kingston’s City Hall, a national heritage site, as well as the old CP Rail Caboose  and the boardwalk along the water. We then returned and retired to our cabin for a much-needed sleep.

The City Hall of Kingston. * Photo: Wikimedia Commons @Alexander49501

Day 2 (July 24) — Departing Kingston to Jones Falls

At around 8am we set sail, watching the City of Kingston disappear behind us.

Leaving Kingston aboard the Kawartha Voyageur. * Photo: Judi Cohen

We entered the Cataraqui River proceeding upstream while enjoying a breakfast of fresh-baked pumpkin muffins along with choices of porridge, cereal, yoghurt, banana, blueberry pancakes, and sausage patties.

Fresh fruit including, my favourite, pink grapefruit, was available all day.

We arrived at the Kingston Mills locks for the first lockage.

Part of the Kingston Mill lock flight. * Photo: Ross Dunn on Flickr.

This is one of the lock flights (meaning, series of locks) for which the Rideau Canal is so famous. Kingston Mills is made up of a set of three locks, followed by one detached lock, with a total lift of 45 feet.

Below is my video showing our transit through the Kingston Mills lock.

Walking alongside the lock, we looked up when we heard the train whistle and the thundering sound of the Canadian National Railway train on the overhead bridge.

As we went through Lower Brewers locks, a lunch of lunch of tomato soup and a selection of sandwiches with chips was served. Our apple crisp topped with vanilla ice cream was simply delightful.

At Jones Falls lock we went on a guided walk to see the Whispering Dam.

The Whispering Damn. * Photo: Judi Cohen

Captain Marc walked to the opposite side of the dam and climbed down part way. We waited. Then he started to speak and we could hear him as if he was standing right next to us.

The Jones Falls lock. * Photo: D. Gordon E. Robertson on Flickr

We also passed an old energy plant that we were told hasn’t worked in years.

Marla and I went for another walk after dinner. It became hot, humid and almost steamy leading up to an overnight rain.

Day 3 (July 25) — Heading out from Jones Falls to Poonamalie with a stop in Westport

I awoke at 5am, before the first coffee pot had brewed, to find the top dock covered in dew as I watched the sun begin to rise in the mist. Marla and I went out for a refreshing walk before breakfast.

Once under way, we cruised from Jones Falls Lock along Eel Lake, passing Birch Island to Davis Lock, before entering Lake Opinicon in the heart of the Rideau Lakes.

At Chaffey’s Lock we made a mid-morning stop to explore the area. We walked to the stately Opinicon Hotel owned by the founder of Shopify. Although it was closed, we peeked in the windows and it looked like a very chic hotel directly on the lake.

Next, we followed a trail to a cemetery with memorials to the canal workers.

We cruised through wetlands with many loons and Canada geese bobbing in the water. Captain Marc commented that there are more birds than he has ever seen and suggested it could be because there have been no boats during COVID to disturb the eggs, and less pollution with fuel from boats.

Canada geese in single file floating by. * Photo: Judi Cohen

After lunch, we docked  at Westport and walked around town with its many churches, historic post office and museum, visiting some ice cream, fudge and bakery shops along the way. Many of the shops were closed on Sundays. Regardless Westport is a charming town and no doubt we could have easily done some shopping.

We continued along the way to Narrows Lock. Same crew as when I went through about three weeks earlier on a LeBoat houseboat with our samoyed puppy. They remembered us and smiled!!

RELATED: Read all about Judi’s Cohen private self-drive Le Boat trip on the Rideau Canal with her husband, daughter & grand-puppy!

RELATED: Judi cruises the St. Lawrence River aboard the Canadian Empress. Read her review here!

Our ship was a sensation with all the cottagers, boaters and people in the communities as we passed through locks and hugged the shore along the lake.

They all came out to wave at us as and to ask how we were enjoying our cruise. Boaters came close enough to wave, give us a thumbs up and kibbitz with the captain and guests.

We arrived in time for cocktails on the top deck and a short walk enjoying the sunset and reflections of our ship in the lock.

Day 4 (July 26) — Cruising from Poonamalie to Merrickville

I awoke at 6am to see groundhogs, bunnies and chipmunks frolicking in the garden of the lock-keeper’s house. I knew this was the start of another great day!

After leaving Poonamalie Lock, we entered the Rideau River, and in the distance, we could see a tall water tower and a bridge in the upright position. As we cruised through the Smiths Falls Detached Lock , the quaint town of Smiths Falls appeared.

We had until lunch to explore the town. It was much busier at the lock than it was just a few weeks ago when I cruised the Rideau on a Le Boat houseboat .

It was disappointing that not many stores were open. The signs on the doors said “closed Monday.”

Nonetheless, we enjoyed window shopping, going into the historic Rideau Hotel , visiting it’s lovely little bakery and cafe on the main floor.

As we left Smiths Falls, we passed through the Smiths Falls Combined Locks  and continued up the Rideau River cruising through Old Slys Locks, Edmunds Lock and Kilmarnock Lock.

In the later afternoon, we docked in Merrickville, a colourful historic town dating back to the early 19th century and disembarked immediately to get to the shops before they closed. A handy guide book given to us by Ontario Waterway Cruises was a great aid for our walk around the town passing many well-maintained early 19th-century homes.

Charming Merrickville. * Photo: Judi Cohen

Baskets of hanging flowers and street art created a very welcoming feeling.

After dinner everyone on the ship came out to play some bocce ball on the shore.

A Kawartha cruise feels like a family affair. * Photo: Judi Cohen

There was still enough time afterwards to walk through the town again passing antique, glass, ice cream and chocolate shops, and along the waterfront to see the sun setting over the water.

Day 5 (July 27) — Cruising from Merrickville to Long Island Flight Locks

This was a day of tranquil cruising Canada’s Rideau Canal with constantly unfolding vistas and wide-open countryside.

Serenity along the Rideau Canal. * Photo: Ontario Waterway Cruises

Passing through the locks, Captain Marc took out fresh-baked muffins, cookies and coffee to the lock station staff who welcomed the Kawartha Voyageur like an old friend.

We passed through Clowes, Nicholson’s and Burritt’s Rapids Locks before docking for the night at Long Island flight locks . It’s another remarkable setting that helped create the fame of the Rideau Canal with its stone arch dam built by Colonel Redpath.

Our afternoon shore excursion took us to the 1860-built Watson’s Mill in Manotick, which today houses a museum.

This historic 1860-built Watson’s Mill. * Photo: Ontario Waterway Cruises

Then,  Marla and I ventured off for a short walk to the Gingerbread Man, a small house converted into a fragrant bakery full of all things gingerbread.

Who can resist all things gingerbread! * Photo: Judi Cohen

Day 6 (July 28) — Going from Long Island Locks to Hartwell Locks

On our final day, we passed by beautiful private homes as we approached Canada’s Capital city — Ottawa.

My video below shows the view from our front row seats.

We stopped at Hog’s Back lock to view the cascading falls before entering the man-made channel passing by the expansive Carleton University campus to our final docking at Hartwell Locks.

In the video below, check out how the locks at Hog’s Back are cranked open the old fashioned way.

We enjoyed a final lunch aboard, then returned to our cabin to collect all of our belongings for disembarkation.

Before boarding our chartered bus taking us to Kingston for our onward transportation, the captain and crew all came out to bid us farewell and thank us for being the “best passengers” ever!

Our drive from Kingston to Toronto was a comfortable 3.5 hours.

Final Thoughts on Cruising Canada’s Rideau Canal aboard Kawartha Voyageur

Cruising with Ontario Waterway Cruises provided a warm, welcoming and rich learning experience with a casual, cottage-like feel.

I hope to cruise on the Quinte and Kawartha itineraries in the future to see more of Canada from the water aboard the Kawartha Voyageur .

The Quinte cruises navigate a 370 km (231 mile) section of the Trent-Severn Waterway, Bay of Quinte and St. Lawrence River/Thousand Islands, while the Kawartha route focuses on the Kawartha Lakes and the Severn River.

No matter which of the three itineraries you choose, you’ll be charmed by the wonderfully quirky Kawartha Voyageur.

The Itinerary for Cruising Canada’s Rideau Canal from Kingston to Ottawa

• Embarkation starts at 8pm in Kingston
• Day 1 — Kingston to Jones Falls
• Day 2 — Jones Falls to Poonamalie
• Day 3 — Poonamalie to Merrickville
• Day 4 — Merrickville to Long Island flight locks
• Day 5 — Long Island flight locks to Hartwell Locks; chartered bus to Kingston at end of cruise

Vaccination Requirements: Straight from the company: “As of October 30, 2021 Transport Canada will be requiring all passengers and crew to be vaccinated. In this regard, we will only be accepting reservations for our 2022 season from fully vaccinated persons. Proof of your second shot will need to be submitted to our office by regular mail or email when making your reservation.”

Cabins & Accessibility: There are 22 double cabins, with one of them large enough to accommodate a person who needs to use a walker in the cabin. You’ll also find one single cabin.

A company spokeswoman says, “passengers who only use walkers for land use often stow them under their bed. All of our toilets are higher than standard with a grab bar close by.” She adds that they can’t get passengers with wheelchairs on and off the boat, and neither on the buses for excursions, so Kawartha Voyageur is not wheelchair accessible.

Starting Rate: $2,436 CDN (or $2,112 USD) per person including tax.

For booking inquires, contact Ontario Waterway Cruises HERE. Mention you heard about Kawartha Voyageur on QuirkyCruise.com!

Lovely memories of the Kawartha cruise will live on. * Photo: Judi Cohen

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© This article is protected by copyright, no part may be reproduced by any process without written permission from the author. All Rights Reserved. QuirkyCruise.com.

About The Author

Judi Cohen has travelled to more than 80 countries with her family, and as a tour leader. Writing about her off-the-beaten track journeys by train, helicopter, plane and small quirky cruise ships is her passion.

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delighted to have been able to read thru this ; hoping to find another version of the rideauwaterway ‘tour’ … that builds-in a lot more detail about its the actual construction; perhaps this would be based on the excellent work of Robert W. Passfield ( published by Parks Cda. in 1982 )

Hello Brian, a pictorial history is available at archives.gov.or.ca.

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I'm up to 78 countries and 110+ cruises worldwide, and it's the small ship journeys that I love writing about most. And so QuirkyCruise.com was born, an excellent research tool for planning your own unforgettable small ship trip.

I have traveled between all continents by sea and cruised along three dozen rivers. Ships and travel are in my blood, and so is writing. My journeys have translated into many books and many hundreds of articles.

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Cruise The Rideau Canal To Ottawa – Complete 7 Day Itinerary

Introduction

Welcome to the journey of a lifetime as we embark on a 7-day cruise along the historic Rideau Canal, venturing from the charming city of Kingston to the bustling capital of Canada, Ottawa. This spectacular waterway, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, offers breathtaking scenery, rich history, and an unforgettable experience for travelers looking to immerse themselves in the beauty of Eastern Ontario.

Stretching over 202 kilometers and comprising a series of interconnected lakes and rivers, the Rideau Canal was constructed in the early 19th century as a strategic military waterway. Today, it has become a popular destination for boating enthusiasts and anyone seeking a unique and leisurely way to explore this picturesque region.

Our 7-day itinerary will take us on a captivating journey, showcasing the highlights and hidden gems along the route. From historic towns and charming villages to tranquil lakes and lush landscapes, each day will bring new adventures and memorable experiences.

Prepare to immerse yourself in the history, culture, and natural beauty of the Rideau Canal as we embark on this remarkable voyage. Whether you’re a history buff, nature lover, or simply seeking a peaceful escape, this itinerary has something for everyone.

So, sit back, relax, and let the wonders of the Rideau Canal unfold before your eyes as we begin our cruise from Kingston to Ottawa. Get ready for an unforgettable adventure!

Day 1: Explore Kingston

Our journey starts in the vibrant city of Kingston, known as the “Gateway to the Thousand Islands.” Begin your day by exploring the historic downtown area, filled with charming streets, boutique shops, and delicious restaurants.

Take a stroll along the waterfront and immerse yourself in the fascinating history of Fort Henry National Historic Site. This 19th-century fortress offers guided tours, live demonstrations, and captivating exhibits that provide insight into Canada’s military past.

For art enthusiasts, a visit to the Agnes Etherington Art Centre is a must. This renowned gallery showcases a wide range of contemporary and historical artworks, including pieces from Canadian artists that will leave you inspired.

No trip to Kingston is complete without experiencing a scenic cruise through the Thousand Islands. Hop aboard a boat and sail through the glistening waters, marvelling at the picturesque landscapes and opulent waterfront cottages that dot the islands.

As the day comes to a close, indulge in a delicious dinner at one of the many waterfront restaurants, offering panoramic views of the St. Lawrence River. Sample local specialties such as freshly caught seafood or savor international cuisines prepared with local ingredients.

End your day with a leisurely stroll along Kingston’s boardwalk, admiring the breathtaking sunset over Lake Ontario. Capture the perfect Instagram-worthy moment or simply embrace the tranquility of this picturesque setting.

After a day filled with exploration and discovery, head back to your accommodation in Kingston and rest up for the exciting days ahead as we continue our journey along the Rideau Canal.

Day 2: Rideau Acres Campground

On day two of our Rideau Canal cruise, we make our way to Rideau Acres Campground, a serene and picturesque retreat nestled along the shores of the canal. This campground offers a tranquil setting to relax and enjoy the natural beauty of the surrounding area.

After settling into your campsite, take advantage of the various amenities the campground has to offer. Whether you prefer swimming in the sparkling pool, playing a friendly game of volleyball, or simply unwinding in the peaceful atmosphere, Rideau Acres Campground has something to suit everyone’s interests.

For nature lovers, a walk or bike ride along the extensive network of trails surrounding the campground is a must. Immerse yourself in the lush greenery and enjoy the sights and sounds of the local wildlife.

Feeling adventurous? Embark on a canoe or kayak excursion on the Rideau Canal. Paddle along the calm waters, taking in the stunning scenery as you navigate through peaceful stretches of the waterway.

If you’re looking to try your hand at fishing, the Rideau Canal offers excellent opportunities to catch various species, including bass, pike, and perch. Cast your line and enjoy the peacefulness of angling amidst the tranquil surroundings.

As the sun begins to set, gather around a campfire and indulge in a classic Canadian tradition – roasting marshmallows and making s’mores. Share stories and laughter with fellow campers as you create memories that will last a lifetime.

Rideau Acres Campground provides a perfect opportunity to unwind and connect with nature, allowing you to fully embrace the serenity of the Rideau Canal. Rest and recharge at this idyllic spot before continuing our journey along the waterway.

Day 3: Merrickville

As we continue our cruise along the Rideau Canal, we make our way to the charming village of Merrickville. Known as the “Jewel of the Rideau,” this picturesque town is renowned for its well-preserved 19th-century architecture and vibrant arts scene.

Start your day by exploring the historic downtown area, lined with boutique shops, art galleries, and quaint cafés. Take a leisurely stroll along the Rideau River, admiring the beautiful landscapes and the iconic Merrickville Blockhouse, a preserved military structure that offers a glimpse into the region’s history.

Art lovers will delight in the numerous galleries and studios that dot the streets of Merrickville, showcasing the works of talented local artists. Discover unique paintings, sculptures, pottery, and other artistic creations as you immerse yourself in the creativity and craftsmanship of the community.

For a taste of local flavors, stop by one of the charming restaurants or bakeries in town. Indulge in delicious homemade treats, freshly brewed coffee, or savor a farm-to-table meal using locally sourced ingredients.

No trip to Merrickville is complete without visiting the famed Merrickville Locks, a series of locks that allow boats to traverse the canal. Witness the engineering marvel of these historic locks in action as boats navigate through the waterway, creating a mesmerizing spectacle.

If you’re up for some adventure, rent a bike and explore the scenic countryside surrounding Merrickville. Pedal along picturesque trails, passing by farmlands, forests, and rolling hills, immersing yourself in the natural beauty of the region.

As the day comes to an end, enjoy a leisurely dinner at one of the cozy restaurants overlooking the canal. Watch the sunset and reflect on the beauty and tranquility of Merrickville, savoring the memories made during your visit.

After experiencing the charm and allure of Merrickville, retire to your accommodation for the night and rest up for the upcoming days as we continue our journey along the picturesque Rideau Canal.

Day 4: Smiths Falls

On day four of our Rideau Canal adventure, we arrive at the vibrant town of Smiths Falls. This historic community is known for its fascinating heritage, picturesque landscapes, and vibrant arts and culture scene.

Begin your day by exploring the heart of Smiths Falls, where you’ll find architectural gems and iconic landmarks. Stroll along the historic Rideau Canal, marveling at the impressive stone-arched Railway Basin and Lockstation, which played a crucial role in the canal’s development.

History buffs will be captivated by a visit to the Heritage House Museum. Step back in time as you wander through this well-preserved Victorian mansion, filled with artifacts and exhibits that offer insights into Smiths Falls’ rich industrial and social history.

For art enthusiasts, a visit to the Station Theatre is a must. This charming venue hosts a variety of live performances, including plays, concerts, and comedy shows. Immerse yourself in the local arts scene and enjoy an evening of entertainment.

Smiths Falls is also home to several vibrant festivals and events throughout the year. Check the local events calendar to see if there’s a special event happening during your visit. From music festivals to farmers markets, there’s always something exciting happening in this bustling community.

Indulge in a delicious meal at one of the many restaurants in Smiths Falls. From farm-to-table cuisine to international flavors, there’s a wide range of dining options to satisfy any palate. Enjoy a leisurely lunch or dinner while taking in the charming surroundings.

Before leaving Smiths Falls, take a scenic walk or bike ride along one of the many trails that wind their way through the town and its surrounding natural areas. Enjoy the peacefulness of nature as you take in the lush landscapes and serene atmosphere.

As the day comes to a close, bid farewell to Smiths Falls and head back to your accommodation, reflecting on the captivating history and vibrant culture you experienced during your time in this charming town along the Rideau Canal.

Day 5: Perth

On day five of our Rideau Canal cruise, we arrive at the historic town of Perth. Known for its rich Scottish heritage, charming architecture, and vibrant arts scene, Perth offers a delightful mix of history, culture, and natural beauty.

Start your day by exploring the picturesque streets of Perth, lined with beautifully preserved heritage buildings. Stop by the Perth Museum to learn about the town’s fascinating history, including its Scottish roots and its role in the development of the Rideau Canal.

No visit to Perth is complete without a visit to the Perth Farmers’ Market. Stroll through this bustling market, brimming with stalls offering fresh produce, local crafts, and delicious homemade treats. Discover unique souvenirs and taste the flavors of the region.

Art lovers will appreciate the many art galleries that dot the town, showcasing the works of talented local artists. Take your time to browse through the exhibits, allowing the creativity and talent of the artists to inspire you.

Perth is also known for its beautiful outdoor spaces, and a visit to Stewart Park is a must. This riverside park offers stunning views of the Tay River, walking trails, and picnic areas. Relax by the water’s edge or enjoy a leisurely stroll through the park’s serene surroundings.

If you’re seeking adventure, explore the nearby Tay Canal. Rent a kayak or canoe and paddle along the calm waters, immersing yourself in the scenic beauty of the area. Keep an eye out for wildlife, including herons, turtles, and maybe even a beaver or two!

Experience the vibrant food scene in Perth by indulging in a meal at one of the local restaurants. From cozy cafes to fine dining establishments, there are plenty of options to satisfy your taste buds. Sample locally sourced ingredients and savor the flavors of the region.

As the day winds down, take a moment to relax and reflect on the beauty and charm of Perth. Capture the essence of this wonderful town through photographs or simply enjoy the peaceful ambiance before returning to your accommodation for a well-deserved rest.

After a day immersed in Perth’s history, culture, and natural beauty, you’ll be ready to continue our journey along the Rideau Canal.

Day 6: Upper Rideau Lake

On day six of our Rideau Canal cruise, we venture to the serene and picturesque Upper Rideau Lake, a pristine and tranquil oasis nestled along the waterway. Prepare to immerse yourself in the natural beauty and serenity of this stunning lake.

Start your day by cruising along the sparkling waters of Upper Rideau Lake, taking in the breathtaking scenery that surrounds you. Marvel at the lush greenery, tranquil islands, and pristine shoreline as you glide through the calm waters.

If you’re an outdoor enthusiast, there are plenty of activities to indulge in. Cast your fishing line into the lake and try your luck at catching bass, pike, or perch. Alternatively, rent a kayak or paddleboard and explore the hidden coves and secluded bays, fully embracing the tranquility of this idyllic location.

For those seeking relaxation, find a quiet spot along the shore and unwind with a good book or simply soak up the sun as you listen to the gentle lapping of the water against the shoreline. Enjoy the peace and serenity that Upper Rideau Lake has to offer.

If you’re feeling adventurous, take a short walk or hike along the surrounding trails and immerse yourself in the beauty of the natural surroundings. Spot wildlife, discover hidden viewpoints, and connect with nature on a deeper level.

As lunchtime approaches, find a scenic spot for a picnic along the lake’s edge. Unwrap a delicious spread of local delicacies, savor the flavors, and soak in the beauty of your surroundings. There’s nothing quite like a meal in the great outdoors.

As the day progresses and the sun begins to set, witness the magical colors of the sky reflecting upon the calm waters. Capture the mesmerizing beauty with your camera or simply take a moment to embrace the peacefulness and tranquility of the lake.

As the day comes to a close, bid farewell to the serenity of Upper Rideau Lake and return to your accommodation, cherishing the memories of a day filled with natural beauty and relaxation.

Get a good night’s rest as we prepare to continue our journey towards the final destination of our Rideau Canal cruise – Ottawa.

Day 7: Arrive in Ottawa

On the final day of our Rideau Canal cruise, we arrive at our ultimate destination – Ottawa, the vibrant and culturally-rich capital of Canada. Prepare to immerse yourself in the beauty, history, and grandeur of this remarkable city.

As we approach Ottawa, take in the breathtaking views of the Parliament Buildings, symbolizing the heart of Canadian democracy. Marvel at the stunning architecture and iconic Peace Tower that graces the skyline.

Begin your exploration of the city by visiting the Rideau Canal Visitor Centre, located near downtown Ottawa. Learn about the history and significance of the canal through interactive exhibits and presentations, gaining a deeper understanding of this remarkable engineering feat.

No visit to Ottawa is complete without experiencing the famous changing of the guard ceremony at Parliament Hill. Witness this traditional ceremony, filled with colorful uniforms, music, and pageantry as the guards exchange duty.

Explore the captivating museums and galleries that Ottawa has to offer. The National Gallery of Canada houses an extensive collection of Canadian and international art, while the Canadian Museum of History offers insight into the country’s rich history and cultural heritage.

For nature lovers, a visit to Gatineau Park is a must. Just a short drive from downtown Ottawa, this sprawling park offers a picturesque landscape of forests, lakes, and rolling hills. Hike scenic trails, take a leisurely bike ride, or enjoy a picnic amidst the beauty of nature.

As the day winds down, savor a delicious meal at one of the many restaurants that offer a diverse range of cuisines. From international flavors to local specialties, Ottawa’s culinary scene is sure to satisfy every palate.

In the evening, take a leisurely stroll along the historic ByWard Market, filled with vibrant energy, entertainment, and a wide array of shops and eateries. Experience the bustling atmosphere, indulge in a sweet treat, or find the perfect souvenir to commemorate your time in Ottawa.

As the sun sets over this remarkable city, reflect on the unforgettable journey along the Rideau Canal. Capture a final glimpse of downtown Ottawa’s illuminated skyline before retiring to your accommodation, cherishing the memories created during this incredible experience.

While our Rideau Canal cruise may come to an end, the memories and experiences will last a lifetime. From the historic landmarks to the natural beauty, this journey has provided a unique perspective on the beauty and charm of Eastern Ontario. Farewell, Ottawa! Until we meet again.

As we conclude our 7-day cruise along the Rideau Canal, we reflect on the remarkable journey we’ve experienced. From the historic city of Kingston to the vibrant capital of Ottawa, this itinerary has allowed us to immerse ourselves in the natural beauty, rich history, and captivating culture of Eastern Ontario.

Throughout this adventure, we’ve explored charming towns like Merrickville and Smiths Falls, each offering its own unique charm and captivating attractions. We’ve marveled at the architectural wonders of Rideau Acres Campground and experienced the tranquility of Upper Rideau Lake. We’ve soaked in the arts and culture scenes of Perth and Ottawa, indulged in delicious local cuisine, and discovered the wonders of the Rideau Canal’s locks and waterways.

The Rideau Canal, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, has served as our guide, showcasing the engineering marvels, scenic beauty, and significant historical sites along its picturesque route. From the majestic fortresses to the lush landscapes, this waterway has provided a truly unforgettable experience.

As we navigated the canal’s waters, we were reminded of the importance of the Rideau Canal as a symbol of Canada’s heritage and as a vital link between communities. Each stop along the way offered opportunities to learn, explore, and connect with the unique history and culture of the region.

Our journey has been a testament to the beauty and diversity that Eastern Ontario has to offer. From the captivating landscapes to the warm hospitality of its residents, this region has left an indelible mark on our hearts and minds.

Whether you’re a history enthusiast, nature lover, or simply seeking a peaceful escape, a cruise along the Rideau Canal provides endless opportunities for discovery and relaxation. The scenic beauty, rich history, and vibrant culture make it a truly mesmerizing experience.

As we bid farewell to the Rideau Canal and the enchanting towns along its route, we carry with us the memories of this remarkable adventure. May the journey along the historic Rideau Canal continue to inspire and captivate travelers for generations to come.

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3 Unforgettable Overnight Waterway Journeys

By South Eastern Ontario

Indulge in the captivating beauty of South Eastern Ontario, where every moment offers an opportunity to immerse yourself in tranquility and nature

Embark on an extraordinary overnight journey aboard one of Ontario’s top-tier cruising vessels for the ultimate getaway experience! Immerse yourself in the serene ambiance of the intimate setting, where tranquil waters and a unique perspective offer an unforgettable exploration of the region. Glide through the St. Lawrence River’s main shipping channel, passing in the shadows of majestic vessels, and behold iconic landmarks such as the Royal Military College , the legendary Boldt Castle , historic Fort Henry , picturesque Kingston harbour, and the Rideau Canal National Historic Site .

Whether you opt for a voyage through the captivating Thousand Islands or choose to traverse the UNESCO World Heritage Site of the Rideau Canal, your vacation promises to be filled with moments of wonder and inspiration. Make lasting memories and embark on an overnight excursion with one of these exceptional operators, ensuring an unparalleled adventure on Ontario’s pristine waters.

Le Boat , a leader in boat rental vacations in Europe, has more than 50 years of experience in the industry. With 900 boats stationed at a network of over 32 different departure bases across 8 European countries, Le Boat arrived in Canada in 2018 and now has a local fleet of 32 boats available for rental on Ontario’s UNESCO Rideau Canal. With no previous boating experience or boat license required, Le Boat shows you how to captain your boat at your own pace on a flexible itinerary. Boats range in size from one to five cabins (sleeping up to 12 people) and travellers can choose a 3-5 night short boating break or a 7-10+ night vacation. All of Le Boat luxury boat rentals come with a fully equipped kitchen, fresh linens, and bedding, top sun deck & much more.

For more information, visit  www.leboat.ca or call 1 800 734-5401

Ontario Waterway Cruises

Ontario Waterway Cruises offers spectacular cruises along the Rideau Canal National Historic Site , providing incredible views, access to charming towns and villages, and close encounters with nature’s best. The Kawartha Voyageur cruise ship offers a 5-day voyage on the Rideau Canal, where all 45 passengers can sleep onboard in cabins with twin lower berths and private facilities. Many guests have compared their overnight stay to a ‘floating country inn.’ The ship’s galley prepares delicious home-style meals, and overnight mooring stops are often at lockstations, parks near picturesque towns, or scenic nature trails. Due to its popularity, bookings must be made well in advance!

Cruise Offerings in 2024

• 5-day voyages on the Rideau Canal from Kingston to Ottawa , with return transportation by highway coach.
• 5-day Quinte cruises between Kingston and Peterborough include a loop through the 1000 Islands

For more information, visit www.ontariowaterwaycruises.com or call 1 800 561-5767

St. Lawrence Cruise Lines

The Kingston, Ontario small ship cruise operator specializes in 4, 5, 6, and 7-night cruises on the St. Lawrence and Ottawa Rivers. Come aboard the M/V Canadian Empress, where you will always find both excellence and value; where quality service, adventure and genuine warmth are sincerely offered and happily experienced. As the rivers’ most experienced overnight cruise operator, their knowledge and understanding of the region, and attention to the details of each journey will ensure full value for your river cruising vacation. Their ship will carry you through the very heart of central Canada’s most beautiful scenery, on routes specifically selected for their stunningly rich gifts of history, natural beauty, and modern vitality. This is your chance to see the real Canada; as unspoiled as when the voyageurs moved up and down its waterways, yet as modern as the St. Lawrence International Seaway with its spectacular locks and man-made canals.

Cruises Offerings in 2024

The Seaway Discovery Cruise 

Heritage Summer Cruise

Discovery Cruise Series

Canada’s Capital Cruise

Upper River Expedition

Fall Harvest and Colour Cruise

Canadian Connection Cruise

For more information visit www.stlawrencecruiselines.com or call 1 800 267 7868

Take the plunge in South Eastern Ontario and climb aboard an overnight boat cruise to see the region in a different light.

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Cruise The Rideau Canal to Ottawa – Complete 7 Day Itinerary

Written By: The Planet D

Updated On: April 23, 2023

Boating the Rideau Canal is one of the best things to do in Canada , and luckily going through the historic lock system can be done without owning your own boat. Heck, you don’t even need boating experience. Thanks to Le Boat setting up shop in Smiths Falls, Ontario, there is a fleet of luxury houseboats just waiting for you to drive up or down this famous UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Table of Contents

The Rideau Canal Le Boat Experience

Le Boat is the number one provider of boating vacations has been offering canal trips throughout Europe for more than 50 years. When deciding to start operating houseboats in North America, The Rideau Canal was a natural fit. This gorgeous 200 km (125 miles) long waterway is like driving through a little slice of Europe. It’s dotted with quaint villages, historic ruins, scenic vineyards, and beautiful scenery. Not to mention the 200-year-old locks that have been continuously in operation since 1832.

The trip begins with an hour-long introduction to your Le Boat. During this time you’ll be shown how to read the maps and charts, how to use the stove, and where all of the important instruments and equipment are, show you the knots you’ll need to tie up at the docks, but most importantly, how to drive the boat!

Le Boats on the Rideau Canal are very easy to drive. The Horizon Fleet boats are all equipped with front and rear thrusters making it easy to turn on a dime. When pulling up to moor, it’s easy to park between boats are in tight spaces by using the side thrusters to inch into a slot. All Le Boats have throttlers on them so you can’t go faster than 10 km per hour making it easy to cruise and relax throughout your trip.

After your lesson and if you feel confident, your instructor will guide you through the first set of locks teaching you lock etiquette and how to safely pull in. You will have all the tools you need to comfortably cruise through the Rideau Canal on your luxury yacht.

Save 10% on select boats rentals on the Rideau Canal

• Save 10%  on  Horizon 2  and  Horizon 3  boat rentals on the  Rideau Canal, Canada
• Valid on departures from  June to August 2022
• Valid on short breaks and 7-10+night cruises
• New bookings only, combinable with other offers for up to 15% maximum discount

Horizon Fleet

We booked a four-bedroom, four-bath for 3 couples. My parents came with us as well as my brother and Sister in Law. We also had two cats on board. Le Boat is pet-friendly, so you can bring the entire family including the pets along!

Each room has its own bathroom and shower. There is a large sitting area inside that comfortably sat all of us. Even though there are four bedrooms and four baths, I think it would have been crowded downstairs with couples, but there are the upper deck and picnic tables where people can spread out. If the weather is good, it would be easy to fit four couples in the Horizon 4. We cruised during fall colours, so we had some very cold days and nights and spent more time downstairs than we did during our summer vacation on the Horizon 3.

The kitchen has two small refrigerators, and there is a barbecue up top, so cooking is easy on Le Boats. We also brought coolers to store drinks and food as the refrigerators on the Horizon 4 aren’t full size. There is plenty of deck space, so you don’t have to worry about it being crowded.

How to Choose Which Direction to go

Choosing to take a boat trip on the Rideau Canal is the easy part, but choosing which way to go can make for a tough decision. Smiths Falls is located almost directly in the middle of the Rideau Canal. If you go north, you’ll be heading to Ottawa, Canada’s capital city. If you go south, you’ll be making your way to Kingston, Canada’s first capital city. Both are great cities to visit and both directions offer interesting stops along the way, so today, we are going to give you some insight into choosing which way to boat on the Rideau Canal from Smiths Falls.

Overview of North and South

We had the opportunity to drive both north and south and can attest that both are superb trips. They are, however, quite different, so choosing which way to go depends on the type of trip you are looking to have.

When boating north towards Ottawa, there are many more locks to go through. Between Smiths Falls and Ottawa, there are 12 lock stations containing 21 locks. The waterways are narrower and the trip feels more like an actual canal trip than a boating vacation in Ontario. It is possible to get to Ottawa and back on a week-long trip when going in this direction.

When going south, the bodes of water are larger and you will be driving on lakes that are connected by locks. At times you don’t even feel like you are on a canal system, but instead in Ontario’s cottage country. There are more choices of towns to stop at and you can do more of a loop instead of an out and back trip.

Unless you have a lot of time, most people won’t make it all the way to Kingston and instead usually stop at the top of Jones Falls Locks, which is often considered the most beautiful locks on the Rideau Canal. To get to Jones Falls, you’ll go through 8 lock stations (after departing Smiths Falls) with only 8 locks which means you have more cruising time and less time inside the locks.

For more information on cruising south on the Rideau Canal, read our full post here: Amazing Rideau Canal Cruise – A Unique Cruise Holiday with Le Boat

The Trip North to Ottawa

We were most excited to spend the night downtown Ottawa on our boat when planning our northern Le Boat trip. Le Boats park right downtown in front of the Rideau Center with views of the Parliament Buildings and the Fairmont Chateau Laurier. In past trips to Ottawa, we’ve seen yachts moored in the canal and could only dream of making this trip. Now that it is possible to rent a houseboat, anyone can join this exclusive club of boating the historic Rideau Canal.

Day 1 Merrickville (4 hours)

The first stop from Smiths Falls is the town of Merrickville where we moored for the night on the blue line of the Merrickville locks. When mooring in Merrickville, we suggest staying at the top of the locks so you can easily enjoy exploring the town. You don’t have far to go the next day, and Merrickville is definitely a highlight of this Rideau Canal cruise.

This was our favourite stop on our northern Rideau Canal route. Merrickville has everything you could need. Merrickville was voted “Canada’s Most Beautiful Village by Communities in Bloom” and it is very pretty. There is plenty of shopping downtown and we picked up quite a few items for our house. Make sure to stroll its main street and pop into the shops. Our favorite place was the Gray Art Glass Studio where we bought a gorgeous centerpiece for our dining room table and Stella Luna Cafe for gelato. The owner studied the art of making Gelato at Carbigiani Gelato University in Bologna! Dave and I have actually toured that university!

Merrickville Ruins

A highlight of visiting Merrickville is walking to the beautiful ruins. The foundation of an abandoned woolen mill is located in a picturesque setting just on the other side of the Rideau Canal from town. There’s a walking trail, beautiful stone foundations, a power generator, and views of the Rideau Canal. Don’t miss walking across the bridge to see them. While docked in Merrickville, you can also visit the old blockhouse that has been turned into a museum.

Day 2 – Burritts Rapids (3 hours)

The next stop is Burritts Rapids. When leaving Merrickville there are three locks and a swing bridge to go through. Once you are through these locks, it’s not long until you are at Burritt Rapids. At Burritts Rapids there is a nice hiking trail, The Tip to Tip. It is a 4.3 kilometer is an out & back trail where you’ll pass the village of Burritts Rapids as you make your way out to the tip.

For us, the highlight here was visiting Rideau Woodland Ramble. If you’ve rented bicycles with your Le Boat (or bringing your own) you can bike to this beautiful display garden and center. It is only 1.7 km from the Burritts Rapids Lock station, so you can also walk there. These gardens are beautiful with walking trails through gorgeous displays. There’s even a labyrinth in the garden where you can take a moment for quiet meditation. There are Japanese maples, quiet ponds, garden gnomes, and the Totem Trail. Make sure to spend some time perusing the gardens and stocking up on supplies for your own garden.

It’s dinner on the boat tonight as you enjoy a beautiful sunset from the lock station.

Day 3 – Long Island (5 hours)

Today is a long boating day so try to be first through the locks so you can make your way to Long Island. Once you are through the Merrickville Locks, it’s smooth sailing as you cruise the Rideau River to Manotick. This is a long portion with beautiful scenery and it is along this route that the big homes start coming into view. We just loved sitting on the deck watching the scenery go by.

Today is a good day to have someone prepare lunch and snacks on board so you can make good time. We wanted to get through the Long Island locks because it is still a long way to Ottawa. But it is important to note that when going through lock stations, you need to be at the locks 1.5 hours before closing. Since we were cruising in Autumn to see the fall colors, that meant that the lock station closed at 5 pm, so if we were to get through, we needed to arrive at 3:30. Luckily we timed this day to happen on the weekend when hours are longer, so by leaving at 9 am sharp, we easily made it through the Long Island locks.

This is definitely a lock station that you want to go through if you can and park at the bottom because it is another long day on the water, so you will want to be able to leave bright and early. If you park at the top, you’ll need to wait for the lock station to open at 9 am.

Black Rapids (1 hour)

We made such good time, that once we got through the Long Island Locks, we decided to push forward to Black Rapids Locks. It is less than 10 km from Long Island to Black Rapids and since we were boating on the weekend, we had time to make it through Black Rapids to stay at the bottom of the locks so that we could push forward to Ottawa first thing in the morning.

It had started to rain, so this was a good time to make up some distance. We moved downstairs to drive from below in warmth and comfort and continued to Black Rapids where we spent the night at the bottom of the locks. We were the last boat through and Now had a very short day ahead of us to Ottawa.

Day 4 Ottawa (4 Hours)

It’s an exciting day because it’s the final stretch to the Capital City of Canada. The homes are closer together and continue to grow in size with floatplanes and motorboats lining their docks. Friendly kayakers wave as you pass and after passing marinas and bridges, the channel narrows as you approach Ottawa. There are two final locks to pass through before reaching the city of Ottawa. Hartwell and Hogs Back locks. At this point, you definitely feel like you are in an urban environment. Cyclists ride their bicycles along the shore, people are walking along the path and crowds stop to watch the boats go through the locks. Luckily you’ve been driving Le Boat for four days by now, so you go through the locks like a pro!

It is now time to make a decision. Dows Lake is just outside of downtown Ottawa, but it is a great place to moor for the evening. The large marina has three restaurants and watersport rentals. This is also the place where you’ll want to pump out your boat and fill up your water. You can park here for the night, but to stay at the Marina, there is an extra cost. (approximately $80)

Day 5 Downtown (30 minutes to 1 hour)

After pumping out and filling our water, we continued on to downtown Ottawa from Dows Lake. This way, we could park in the heart of the city and are within walking distance from most of the city’s top attractions. The cruise into Ottawa is beautiful. Many people pay for a Rideau Canal cruise from downtown, and on Le Boat, you get to drive your own boat on this historic stretch of waterway. From Dows Lake to Downtown, it’s just a 20 to 30-minute cruise, but you do need to wait for one lift bridge. The phone number is on your charts, so call ahead to let the bridge master know you are on your way. They’ll then stop traffic and let you through.

Read all these Ottawa Guides to help you plan your visit

• Top Things to do in Ottawa
• Places to Visit in Ottawa this Autumn
• 15 Awesome Ottawa Museums – What Not to Miss and Why
• Nordik Spa Nature – A Guide to Ottawa’s Luxury Spa Escape

Things to do in Ottawa near Le Boat parking

You now have the afternoon to enjoy all the amazing things to do in downtown Ottawa. We have visited this city often and have many articles on Ottawa attractions. But if it is your first time, you are in a great place because you are within walking distance to the ByWard Market, The Parliament Buildings, The Rideau Centre, and Sparks Street. The ByTown museum is close by and for just $2 you can go inside and walk through this pretty museum that traces the history of Ottawa known then as Bytown

We suggest heading to ByWard Market for dinner. There are plenty of places to eat in the market and be sure to go up to the top of the Andaz Hotel for cocktails on the rooftop bar and amazing views of Ottawa.

Before dinner, take a stroll to Parliament Hill to see the government parliament buildings and to look across the Ottawa River at the city of Gatineau Quebec. On your way back, hop up to Sparks Street. This pedestrian street is great for a stroll and comes out at the War Memorial where you can see the changing of the guards at the Tomb of the Unknown soldier at 9 am and 5 pm.

An evening in Ottawa offers countless things to do. One fun thing for the whole family is to take a haunted walking tour. Learn about the city of Ottawa and its history as you stroll to some of its famous sights while hearing fun stories about ghosts in the night.

Day 6 Ottawa (Optional Full Day in Ottawa)

If you only have one day in Ottawa, the best thing to do is to take a tour. We booked an e-bike tour with Escape Bicycle Tour s and it was an excellent way to visit all the top Ottawa attractions. What we loved about e-biking is that it is perfect for a multi-generational trip. My parents joined us on this trip and so did my brother and sister-in-law. We all have different levels of cycling, but riding an e-bike levels the playing field. It’s so easy!

We met our guide Andrew at their office on Sparks Street. It’s a fantastic location where you can order specialty coffees, beer, and wine. We had coffee before the tour and wine after. After learning how to navigate the bikes we followed Andrew through the city on the well-appointed bike paths. Ottawa is a very bikeable city. My family was a bit worried about cycling in the city, but their nerves were quickly eased once we started cycling. There were paths throughout the city and when we were in traffic, bikes had their own lanes.

The tour took us across the Ottawa River into Quebec where we saw Canada’s busiest Museum, The Canadian Museum of History. We then cycled across the Alexandra Bridge on the designated bike and walking path to the National Gallery of Canada where we saw the amazing Maman spider installation and took in the views of the Notre Dame Basilica. It was then out to Sussex Drive including to see Rideau Hall, the home of Canada’s governor-general. The tour was beautiful, showcasing the best of the city while enjoying the great outdoors.

After our tour, we had some beer and wine on the Escape Bicycle outdoor patio on Sparks Street. It’s such a great atmosphere, and owner Maria came out to join us for a cappuccino. When visiting Ottawa, make sure to book a tour or bicycle rental with Escape Bicycle Tours, visit their website for details.

In the evening we had a fun family bonding experience at Escape Manor where we worked together as a team to get out of the Asylum. It was the first escape room we’ve ever done and I highly recommend doing it. Especially if you are with your family.

Taking a walk along Bank Street we made our way to Flora Hall Brewing for dinner. This is a fantastic setting in an old garage. The local craft brewery has an extensive menu from falafels and beet hummus to Burrata salads. It’s all open-concept and you can see the vats of beer behind glass where they make their own microbrew. It’s then back to the boat for cocktails on deck with the Ottawa lights glistening in the smooth waters of the canal.

Day 7 – Ottawa to Long Island (3-4 hours)

Today it is time to say goodbye to Ottawa and start making your way back to Smiths Falls. You’ll be backtracking so you’ll be seeing a lot of the same scenery, but this is a fun time to stop at the places you may have missed. Since we b-lined it through Long Island from to Black Rapids on the way to Ottawa, we decided to go directly to stay overnight at Long Island on the way back.

Long Island is a lovely lock station with three locks and a swing bridge. It’s amazing to watch the Parks Canada staff at work. They crank the locks by hand and push the trolley to open the swing bridge in circles. It’s truly like stepping back in time.

From the Long Island Locks, it is a 15-minute bike ride to the town of Manotick. It’s worth going into this historic town with 1860s Watson’s Mill being the highlight. There are several cafes and specialty shops for shopping, or you can simply relax on one of its patios.

Day 8 – Nicolson Locks

Today is a leisurely cruise as you make your way back along the Rideau Canal. It’s impossible to get to Smiths Falls in a day from Long Island, so you can decide where you want to spend the night on the way back. You may want to revisit Merrickville to enjoy some delicious pizza at Iron Forge Pizza, or you may want a night on the water at Burrits Rapids or Nicholsons Lock. We made it through Burrits Rapids and decided to stay at Nicholsons to enjoy an evening in peace and quiet on Le Boat.

Using the barbecue on the upper deck, we enjoyed cocktails and dinner as the sun set over the water. It was the perfect ending to our last night on the boat.

Final Day – On to Smiths Falls

Our final push had us leaving first thing in the morning to get through to Smiths Falls where we backed the boat into the slip. We’ve come a long way baby, 8 days ago we were nervous about driving Le Boat’s Horizon Four and now we’re backing it with precision right into the slip alongside the rest of the fleet.

As one person went to get the carts to help carry our gear, the rest started to unload the boat and get it ready for sign-off. It was a wonderful week with family on the Le Boat Horizon Four and it was bittersweet saying goodbye to it. We highly recommend getting your family or close friends together to share this once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Le Boat and Rideau Canal – The Deails

Le Boat is located in Smiths Falls in the center of the Rideau Canal. Boat vacations can go either way along the canal from Smiths Falls and don’t need to go all the way to Ottawa on your trip. We met many people who took shorter three to four-day trips to Merrickville or Burritts Rapids. You also don’t need to spend two nights in Ottawa.

We wanted my family to experience our favourite city in Ottawa, so we chose to spend an extra night in the city, but you can choose to stay as long or as short as you like. The only extra cost for Le Boaters in Ottawa on the canal is the cost of power which is $9.20 per night.

Rideau Canal Hours

When planning your Le Boat route on the Rideau Canal, it’s important to look at lock times. Le Boats can only go 10 km per hour, so you can’t zip from lock to lock. It is meant to be a slow and relaxing boat rip on the Rideau. So, make sure to know how far you want to travel and how much you want to see before booking the number of days from Smiths Falls.

Getting to Ottawa in 3 days is doable, but it is important to make good time between locks and to plan if you are going to stay at the top or bottom of locks. Going through the locks can take a while and if you park at the top but want to move on in the morning, you won’t be able to until the lock opens. We often went through the lock in the evening so that we could park at the bottom and be on our way first thing in the morning.

Lock times change depending on the time of the year and you need to be at the locks 1 1/2 hours before they close as it can take that long to get boats through. So if the locks close at 4:00 pm in the autumn, you will need to be going through by 2:30 at the latest.

Opening Hours:

• Monday to Thursday 10:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.
• Friday to Sunday and holidays 9:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m.
• Monday to Thursday 9:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.
• Monday to Friday 10:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.
• Saturday, Sunday & Thanksgiving 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.

It is free for Le Boaters to stay at the Parks Canada locks, but if you want power, there is a charge of $9.80. You don’t necessarily need power as Le Boats charge all day while driving, but if you want to run the air conditioner in summer or heat in Spring and Autumn, you may want power for peace of mind. If you stay at a Marina, some are included in your rental and others have an extra fee. Just check with the staff before you leave to find out which marinas are free of charge. Some offer free stays for the first two Le Boaters that arrive, so if you want a night at a particular marina, make sure to arrive early.

Taking a Le Boat Vacation on the Rideau Canal is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Going through the historic locks is a dream vacation that is on many an avid boaters bucket list. It is amazing that Le Boat has opened up shop in Canada offering luxury 45-foot yachts to allow the public to experience a trip that was once only available for those who own their own boats. If you are looking for something unique to do in Ontario this summer, put Le Boat at the top of your list!

Visit the Le Boat website for luxury boating vacations in Europe and Canada at LeBoat.com

Read more about Ontario Travels:

• The Ultimate Kingston Ontario Weekend Itinerary
• Top 15 Ontario Hiking Trails
• 35 Iconic Places to Visit in Ontario, Canada
• Things to do in Kingston – Don’t Miss This Ontario Gem
• 25 Best Places to Camp in Ontario, Canada

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About The Planet D

Dave Bouskill and Debra Corbeil are the owners and founders of The Planet D. After traveling to 115 countries, on all 7 continents over the past 13 years they have become one of the foremost experts in travel. Being recognized as top travel bloggers and influencers by the likes of Forbes Magazine , the Society of American Travel Writers and USA Today has allowed them to become leaders in their field.

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1 thought on “Cruise The Rideau Canal to Ottawa – Complete 7 Day Itinerary”

Very good article.