Summary
Are you seeking a unique boating holiday? A luxury houseboat cruise on the Rideau Canal with Le Boat represents an exceptional choice. Le Boat Luxury Houseboats is the leading provider of boating holidays across Europe’s canals, and now, Ontario, Canada, has the privilege of enjoying Le Boat’s cruises along the historic Rideau Canal from Ottawa to Kingston.
Self Drive a Houseboat on the Rideau Canal with Le Boat
Navigating the Rideau Canal may not be widely recognized (apart from the boating enthusiasts), which is regrettable. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is among the premier waterways globally, and cruising it feels akin to enjoying a little piece of Europe amidst North America.
Having traversed Ontario extensively, the sole time we engaged with this well-known waterway was while ice skating on the Rideau Canal in Ottawa. We were unaware that we could self-drive a yacht on the Rideau Canal without owning a vessel. However, Le Boat provides novice operators the opportunity to explore Ontario’s lakes and rivers in luxury.
Summer Savings with Le Boat
- 2025 Early Booking Offer – Save up to 25%: Benefit from Le Boat’s Early Booking offer and save up to 25% on budget, comfort, and Comfort Plus boat rentals across Europe. Obtain a 15% discount on Le Boat’s Horizon Fleet available for travel in Canada, France, Holland, Belgium, and Germany. To secure your vacation with a mere 25% deposit, make your reservation by September 1, 2024.
- Le Boat’s 2025 Lowest Price Guarantee: Reserve your 2025 boat rental vacation in Europe or Canada with assurance. In the event of a price reduction post-booking, Le Boat will refund the difference. They assure the lowest price up to 90 days prior to departure. For Early Booking offers for the 2025 season, visit https://www.leboat.ca/en/new-season or contact 1-800-734-5491.
Hire A Captain with Le Boat
To simplify boating for first-time cruisers further, Le Boat, recognized as the leader in private boating vacations in Europe and Canada, has introduced its innovative Skipper for Hire program.
Commencing in the 2025 season along the scenic Canal du Midi in France, this program is priced at just US$199 per day, allowing travelers to hire a seasoned Le Boat skipper for their inaugural voyage. On the initial full day of the journey, the designated skipper provides personalized instruction on boat operation, navigation techniques, and maneuvering through locks. This tailored guidance builds confidence, empowering guests to navigate independently during the remainder of their excursion.
For further details regarding Le Boat’s Skipper for Hire program, visit https://www.leboat.ca/en/new-season or call 1-800-734-5491.
About the Rideau Canal
The Rideau Canal spans 202 km (125 miles) from Ottawa to Kingston, Ontario. Established in 1832, it stands as the oldest continuously operated canal system in North America. The UNESCO World Heritage Site offers a singular experience for navigating through. All locks (except for two) are operated by Parks Canada staff, who manually operate the lock gates.
Journeying along the Rideau Canal resembles traversing a living history museum. The 45 locks distributed across 23 lock stations have hardly changed over 200 years, with the original lockmasters’ houses and blockhouses still preserved. The 202 km of waterways present a mix of locks, rivers, and lakes lined with exquisite cottages, vibrant communities, and provincial parks. We enjoyed a remarkable seven-day itinerary from Smiths Falls to Jones Falls.
Rideau Canal Itinerary
Le Boat Cruises commence in the charming town of Smiths Falls. Travelers can choose tours either north to Ottawa or south to Kingston. We organized our journey south to Jones Falls. While it is feasible to reach Kingston in seven days, we intended to explore the communities along the canal, thus we allotted only 2 to 3 hours of travel each day, maximizing opportunities for hiking, biking, paddling, and exploration.
Day 1 – Smiths Falls
Smith Falls is a picturesque town located midway between Ottawa and Kingston, which has undergone significant revitalization following the closure of the Hershey Factory in 2007. It is surprising to think of the challenges it faced previously. This scenic Ontario destination should be prioritized on your list of places to visit within the province. We had not considered Smiths Falls prior to this journey.
The Railway Museum is among the finest historic railway museums in Canada. You can even spend the night in one of the railway cars and experience what it was like to travel by train in the 1950s. Visit their website for more details.
Exhibits include cars displaying how a traveling dentist reached remote Canadian communities. There are dining cars, a fully restored station, and we had the opportunity to ride a train. Moreover, I was fortunate enough to operate the train, a dream many aspire to realize. (Dave also has experience operating a train, so he partook in this adventure). Additionally, we had the unique opportunity to experience operating a hand car as well!
We spent the night on the boat in Smiths Falls, assembling beverages and last-minute food supplies. Dining on the patio of The Lockmaster Tap House was a delightful commencement of our adventure. For those staying overnight in Smiths Falls, the Econolodge offers an advantageous location, although it may benefit from updating.
Day 2 – Smiths Falls to Beveridges Lock
The morning was dedicated to unpacking and organizing on the boat as we awaited our boating lesson. To fully enjoy our week on the Rideau Canal, we had a kayak and bicycles loaded onboard, filling every available space with our provisions and gear. It was remarkable to discover the onboard space.
Our companions, Jim and Janice, occupied the spacious master bedroom while Dave and I shared the remaining two rooms, one used for camera equipment storage, and the other for our personal items. Our food and snacks conveniently fit into the cupboards and under the seats, and we were prepared to set sail by 1:00 pm.
Departing from Smiths Falls, we headed south to our initial stop, Beveridges Lock Station. This stop is approximately an hour and a half distance from Smiths Falls and is a favored locale for Le Boat patrons on their first evening. The passage provides a quintessential Rideau Canal experience, allowing everyone to acclimate to boating.
We navigated through two locks where lock masters from Parks Canada offered assistance and advice during docking. Jim and Janice demonstrated exceptional skill with the ropes, while Dave assisted me at the helm, utilizing binoculars for navigation and identifying markers as we traversed rivers and Lower Rideau Lake.
Day 3 – Beveridges Lock
Beveridges Lock Station features a picturesque lock that leads toward Perth, Ontario. Most Le Boat patrons do not pass through this lock due to its narrow passage. Consequently, we secured our boats at the top of the lock station to relish the evening. With a fully equipped kitchen in the galley and barbecue available on the upper deck, we celebrated with refreshments and a hearty meal as the night unfolded.
There were numerous activities to engage in, and we took a bicycle ride along the trail to explore nearby Otentiks managed by Parks Canada. Janice expressed her intention to return next summer for a stay in one of these unique accommodations.
Parks Canada also offers canoes for use. Rather than navigate our 45-foot yacht through this channel, we opted for canoes and spent the morning discovering this scenic route. I understand why Le Boat advises against navigating this lock with a houseboat; the waters are relatively shallow outside the navigational buoys, and a wrong move could lead to grounding.
We learned that another boater disregarded warnings while we were present and required towing, resulting in the loss of their deposit as well as a day of travel awaiting rescue.
Initially intimidating, sitting low in a canoe at the bottom of Beveridges Lock was thrilling as staff hand-cranked the locks open, causing a rush of water to create an exhilarating experience. Moments later, the gates opened, allowing us to explore the stunning Tay River. Our paddling adventure was fulfilling, as we not only engaged with locks by boat but also experienced paddling through a lock.
Be sure to bring water and snacks, and remember that you must paddle back, so be mindful of your limits. The wind picked up during our return journey, making the task challenging.
Day 4 – Westport
The subsequent morning brought about a complete shift in weather, revealing sunshine and radiance. We relished fresh coffee and breakfast on the deck while devising our plans for the day. This was our longest journey, extending three hours to reach Westport. Departing from the dock was exhilarating. We found ourselves positioned between two vessels in a narrow channel, and witnessing our ability to make a complete turn in the middle of this channel was astonishing.
With assistance from everyone, I utilized the thrusters to carefully maneuver away from the dock. Once we were at a safe distance, Jim untied his rope from the front of the boat, while Janice maintained a loose grip at the back, enabling me to pivot the vessel around its axis. Thanks to the thrusters, the boat turned effortlessly, allowing us to complete a U-turn without colliding with any other craft.
Upon departing the lock, it was a splendid day to drive from the upper deck. There are two driving options: if conditions are poor, one can operate from the cabin (which I was not ready to do on our first day), but with clear, sunny skies, there is nothing quite like being up top.
We sailed past grand mansions lining the waterway, exchanging waves with every vessel passing. It seemed nearly all the boats in sight were Le Boats. The staff noted their appreciation for Le Boat being on the Rideau as it ensures the locks remain busy during weekdays. One can only imagine the slow pace of the days without the influx of boats.
Our first lock of the day, The Narrows, certainly lived up to its name. The wind had picked up by the time we reached The Narrows, and rumors suggested they might close it soon. I must admit feeling somewhat anxious while navigating this narrow passage in high winds, but our Horizon 3 performed beautifully, and we passed through with ease using the thrusters.
This lock is captivating because the personnel not only operate the lock but also a swing bridge for road traffic. Vehicles halted as we traversed, and as the staff bid us farewell, we continued on our path to Westport.
Parks Canada personnel are exceptionally friendly and always willing to assist. While in the locks, take advantage of the opportunity to converse with them; they provide outstanding advice and insights on navigating the Rideau Canal.
A refreshing breeze accompanied us to Westport, ensuring comfort throughout our journey. Janice prepared snacks for the trip, and we arrived in town just after lunchtime. We were delighted to have pushed through swiftly to enjoy everything Westport offers. The variety of activities available could easily fill two nights of exploration, but fortunately for us, we are seasoned travelers who made the most of every moment.
The marina staff were incredibly welcoming, making us feel like old companions once we disembarked. They guided us to our dock, for refilling water supplies, and shared recommendations for attractions and activities. After settling in, we strolled into town to enjoy a beer flight at the Westport Brewery. For those interested in shopping, Westport is the ideal destination, featuring exceptional clothing and gift shops, along with a supermarket to stock up on necessities and ice before departure.
The prime attraction in town is undoubtedly Scheurmann Vineyard. We had a reservation for an outdoor dining experience and were greeted by a lively atmosphere upon arrival. This picturesque setting in a grassy field overlooking the vineyard and Westport Sand Lake was enchanting. After dinner, we ascended Foley Mountain for stunning vistas of Westport and the Upper Rideau Lake. Returning to the boat, we enjoyed a nightcap on the upper deck, falling asleep to the soothing sounds of water lapping against the hull.
Day 5 – Chaffey’s Lock
Awakening on the fifth day of our boating escapade along the Rideau Canal, we felt slightly groggy. The previous day was packed with activity, but we faced a relaxed trip ahead to Chaffey’s Lock, merely 1.5 hours by boat. This allowed us a leisurely morning to shop, savor our coffee, and explore Westport further. After acquiring ice (as Janice aptly noted, “Ice is like gold on a boat”), we bid farewell to the Westport Marina staff and returned to the Rideau Canal.
Today, we took a measured approach; after passing through the first lock, we docked for a barbecue on the deck. While watching ducks waddle across the canal, we grilled burgers under the warm sun. Each of us seized the opportunity for a brief nap before continuing our voyage to Chaffey’s Lock.
Paddling through charming, narrow channels, we occasionally observed osprey soaring above. By late afternoon, we reached the lock and completed our waste pump-out at Browns Marina, restocked on ice, and proceeded through the lock to a tranquil dock that we had exclusively to ourselves. Once we retrieved our bicycles, we cycled to visit the renowned Opinicon Restaurant.
This historic establishment, reminiscent of 1950s Dirty Dancing-style retreats, was unfortunately closed during our visit, yet still presented an impressive sight from the exterior. While at Chaffey’s Lock, one can also visit the Lockmaster Museum and an adjoining gallery located by the waterfront.
Once again, rain followed us, so after dining beneath the upper deck canopy, we retreated to the cabin for an evening of board games.
Day 6 – Jones Falls
Most cruises originating from Smiths Falls conclude at Jones Falls, recognized as the most picturesque lock on the Rideau Canal, and for good reason. This set of locks is an essential stop during explorations of the Rideau Canal. However, many adventurers choose to turn around here due to the significant time required to navigate the locks. It can take at least an hour to traverse the four locks here, and an additional hour to return, meaning significant time is spent within the locks. Therefore, it is advisable to secure a spot at the top and engage in exploration via hiking trails and nearby historic structures.
Although we did not reach Jones Falls by boat (Dave and I later drove there to see it), we opted to turn around at Chaffey’s Lock and spent the night at Newboro. With high winds and rain warnings along the Rideau Canal, we preferred not to be caught in a storm. As luck would have it, the narrows were closed that day, confirming our decision to change plans and giving us the chance to explore Newboro.
Newboro is a charming lock featuring canoe and kayak rentals. It also has a fire pit, creating a lovely peaceful atmosphere. The highlight of Newboro is visiting Kilborns, a unique and quirky department store composed of three historic buildings interconnected.
This shop is far more than it may initially appear. Entering, we assumed it was a modest souvenir shop, but the store spans endlessly, offering a variety of items from furniture to western boots. For distinctive clothing or artwork, this is the ideal destination. Before returning to the boat (just a short 10-minute walk), don’t forget to stop for a refreshing drink on the patio at Stirling Lodge.
Day 7 – Colonel By Island
The next destination on our itinerary undoubtedly became our favorite. Colonel By Island is beloved by all. Named in honor of Colonel By, an English military engineer who oversaw the construction of the Rideau Canal (and interestingly, ByWard Market in Ottawa is also named after him), Colonel By Island is an exquisite place to spend a night among the Rideau Waterways. Situated on Big Rideau Lake, the island has no facilities, yet offers plentiful activities.
Although the island is owned by Parks Canada, maintenance has been regrettably lacking. A historic building is succumbing to neglect. It was previously owned by Danny Arnstein, proprietor of Yellow Cab in New York and Chicago in 1949. The New York Mafia, among others, frequently visited the island during its heyday.
Now condemned and inaccessible, it still evokes a sense of grandeur from its past. The site features tennis and basketball courts, along with beautiful peanut fireplaces visible from outside. I found myself wishing I could enter; I couldn’t help but think that if this were in the United States, there would be restoration efforts with heritage furnishings from that era to allow tours showcasing life during its golden age. I hope Parks Canada considered restoration in the future.
Nevertheless, Colonel By Island is worth a visit. It features a 3 km hiking trail traversing some of the most unique forests among the Rideau Waterways, and is an excellent location for kayaking and swimming, with options for evening bonfires. This location on the Rideau Canal allows for overnight stays without needing to dock at a lock station. While no electricity is available, Le Boats typically do not require power every night; they recharge efficiently while navigating during the day.
We successfully operated toasters, radios, stovetops, and coffee makers every day without draining our power.
Note: The dock tends to be noisy (the squeaking is prominent), thus we recommend mooring to one of the balls at night for a more restful sleep.
Day 8 – Back to Smiths Falls
Our concluding day led us back to Smiths Falls. Most individuals complete this journey in seven days, but with our added day in Smiths Falls for museum exploration, we savored eight. Leaving the Rideau Canal sparked a sense of melancholy; I can easily envision returning. (In fact, we are already planning a fall colors cruise and a Le Boat excursion in Europe, the company’s birthplace.) My brother Jim expressed interest in resuming boating with a venture like this, and I must confess, Le Boat made boat aficionados out of both Dave and me! We maneuvered our substantial boat back into the slots at Le Boat’s docks in Smiths Falls, and the loading process proved seamless with the rolling carts provided by Le Boat.
If you have yet to explore Smiths Falls, take a moment for a stroll from the docks. Downtown is merely a short 10-minute walk where you can visit the Rideau Canal headquarters and enjoy a refreshing pint at one of the local establishments.
Our Le Boat excursion was a truly remarkable week-long experience in Ontario, placing it at the top of our list of must-do activities in the province. There is nothing comparable. If you have yet to consider renting a houseboat, contemplate Le Boat on the Rideau Canal—you certainly will not regret it.
Tips For Cruising the Rideau Canal With Le Boat
Navigating the Rideau Canal as a newcomer to boating can be quite a challenge, and a thunderstorm certainly compounded our difficulties. My brother Jim remained on the upper deck alongside me as I navigated through fog and rain, ensuring we could spot any obstacles, while Dave utilized binoculars to seek out buoys and navigational markers.
- Locks operate from 9 AM to 6 PM, so ensure your plans allow you to navigate through before 6 PM; it’s wise to arrive at least 30 minutes prior to closure for safety.
- When boating, open alcohol is prohibited; consumption is reserved for when you are docked.
- Boats utilize minimal fuel; we cruised for seven days and only consumed about half a tank.
- Rentals can be arranged for durations ranging from 3 to 10 days.
- Pets are permitted.
- Options for renting paddleboards, bicycles, and kayaks are available, or you may bring your own.
- Every cabin comes equipped with its own private bathroom.
Prior to departing the dock each day, thoroughly review the charts to plan your route. Be prepared to frequently check charts for markers and buoys. One person should operate the boat while the other extends visual monitoring with binoculars, keeping watch for shallow areas, obstacles, and navigational guidance.
Vigilance is essential for monitoring markers, and it is crucial to have your first mate monitoring them closely with binoculars (which Le Boat provides). We also packed additional pairs, which proved beneficial, allowing everyone to assist in keeping me on course. Straying from the proper side of a buoy or veering off course can lead to grounding. Nevertheless, by exercising caution and adhering to the charts and markers, navigation is straightforward.
We correctly executed a right-hand turn through torrential rain in Lower Rideau Lake, subsequently reaching Beveridges Lock—our successful navigation earned us a well-deserved congratulatory moment. Admittedly, that first day was quite nerve-wracking, but having successfully completed it, the remainder of the week felt easier!
Le Boat Horizon Line
Le Boat houseboats embody modern luxury—these state-of-the-art floating yachts are spacious, opulent, and simple to navigate. Experiencing a cruise on the Rideau Canal presents a rare opportunity, and enjoying it in style at your own pace while operating your own vessel adds an irresistible appeal.
Boats range from Horizon 1 to Horizon 5, with vessels accommodating parties from 2 to 12 individuals.
These boats are highly soundproof; once retired for the night, I heard nothing, despite Jim and Janice staying awake longer on most nights.
Le Boats can dock at all Parks Canada Locks at no additional fee. Power access incurs an $8.90 charge, but typically, it is not necessary unless you are utilizing significant electricity as the boats recharge while in motion.
Ensure to obtain ice at each stop. The onboard refrigerators are compact, so we opted to utilize coolers for drinks and perishable foods, managing to store provisions for six individuals over eight days on the water. (My parents were unable to join us at the last moment, leaving us with ample food supply.)
Horizon 3 by Le Boat
We selected the Horizon 3, which features 3 bedrooms and 3 bathrooms. My parents were initially joining us and had planned to take the master bedroom, but due to their absence, only the four of us were aboard. I found it adequately spacious for our needs.
We pushed the single beds together in smaller rooms; however, if I were to do this again, I would maintain them as singles, as navigating to the bathroom required climbing over Dave each night.
We boarded our Horizon 3 houseboat, docked in Smiths Falls, Ontario. This impressive vessel is ideal for couples or large families on vacation, featuring three bedrooms, three bathrooms, upper and lower decks, and a sizable kitchen. The top deck is equipped with a barbecue and sink, perfect for enchanting evenings under the stars.
Le Boat House Boats Have Thrusters
All Horizon Le Boats come with specialized thrusters that facilitate easy navigation. Bow and side thrusters allow for exceptional maneuverability. We could effortlessly turn the boat around in narrow channels using the side thrusters, ensuring a smooth approach to docks while avoiding collisions. Once I became accustomed to using the thrusters, I appreciated the convenience and questioned why anyone would operate a boat without them.
Self Driving a Le Boat House Boat
I initially felt apprehensive about driving a €450k ($650k CAD) 45-foot luxury yacht, but that was precisely my intention for the upcoming seven days. Moreover, Le Boat ensures a worry-free experience for novice operators.
After unloading our gear (with a packing list forthcoming), we received a comprehensive orientation from Doug, a Le Boat representative, covering everything from utilizing the barbecue on the upper deck to operating the air conditioning and mastering knot-tying. The most significant undertaking, however, was learning to navigate the boat.
Both Dave and I invited my brother Jim and sister-in-law Janice to join us for the trip. They are avid boaters with substantial experience; thus, when Doug inquired about who required instruction, I quickly volunteered as I needed the most help. Doug explained all components of piloting a boat, and within moments, we were departing from the dock for an hour-long lesson.
Do you need Boating Experience to Drive a Le Boat?
Jim and Janice possess their boating licenses and anticipated they would operate the boat during our week-long journey. However, for those renting a houseboat on the Rideau Canal, no prior experience is necessary. A boating license or prior experience is not required to operate a Le Boat Houseboat. Even if you have never driven a boat before, you can enjoy navigating a Le Boat seamlessly. All boats are equipped with limiters, capping maximum speeds at only 10 km/h, surround the entire boat with bumpers, and include thrusters that simplify operations for even the most novice boaters.
What’s It Like at Locks on the Rideau Canal
While navigating through the locks, Jim and Janice handled the ropes, I operated the boat, and Dave observed everything, sharing the navigation duties throughout the week. Within the lock, I had the opportunity to relax while awaiting water levels to rise.
I rapidly learned that neutral throttle was my best ally; I could apply power while in neutral, which provided effective control via the thrusters during docking.
Moreover, I discovered that reversing provided quick deceleration. We navigated through the lock successfully (although I felt considerable pressure), and once we emerged on the other side, we dropped off Doug and commenced our week-long journey south from Smiths Falls.
There are plentiful opportunities for evening activities on a Le Boat. Numerous locks permit campfires, and you can certainly venture out to explore individually. Le Boats are authorized to dock at any of the locks overnight. Most offer power for a nominal fee of $9, and some even have fire pits available. Certain docks feature facilities, while others are conveniently located near town, allowing for dining or drinks.
Remember to pack games and cards for evening entertainment. Le Boats also include televisions, enabling you to borrow movies and television shows from the office. We never faced boredom, as we filled our time as actively or leisurely as we desired.
Practicing steering, parking, and maintaining a straight course with the boat became routine. After mastering these tasks, we continued to our first lock on the Rideau Canal with Doug onboard, ensuring the entire crew was capable of managing their responsibilities.
So, are you prepared to self-drive the Rideau Canal? This has been an incredible vacation for us and has undoubtedly turned us into houseboat enthusiasts! Where will your next adventure take you?
