Ontario, Canada, Beckons Families with New Summer Sailing, Waterfront Experiences

You don’t have to take the family all the way to Europe to enjoy a waterfront summer. Ontario, Canada, offers its own take on island-hopping, houseboat adventures and scenic waterfront towns … here’s how you can do it with your family:

The Trent-Severn Waterway

Extending more than 240 miles in central Ontario, more than 120,000 boaters travel this annually, traversing many towns and communities dotted along the waterway. Explore local attractions like museums, historical sites and art galleries. A popular boating stop along the route is Bobcaygeon, home to waterfront restaurants, shops and marina services, as well as Fenelon Falls, another popular lock with local dining and village amenities.

Toronto Islands, Toronto

These 15 small islands are linked together by bridges, and vacationers flock here to enjoy Hanlan’s point beach; 200-year-old Gibraltar Point Lighthouse; and William Meany Maze of 1,200 black cedar hedges.

Lake of the Woods, Kenora

Many houseboat rentals are available with flexible itineraries, meaning your family can explore Kenora’s vast range of restaurants, marinas and local services before taking on the lake’s many channels and bays, searching for the perfect anchorage for the night.

Thousand Islands and Rideau Canal, between Kingston and Cornwall

Uncover more than 1,800 islands rich in Gilded Age history, where your family can explore Rideau Canal via kayak or tour operators like City Cruises Gananoque or Rockport Cruises. Look upon hidden coves, massive island mansions and Boldt Castle. For a more luxury experience, opt for LeBoat, a self-guided luxury houseboat adventure.