About Rideau Canal

Wild and wonderful, take an unforgettable boating vacation on Canada's canals and wide open lakes

Our Canadian boating vacations are the perfect way to discover the beauty of the Rideau Canal. One of the greatest engineering feats of the 19th century, the Rideau Canal is the oldest continuously-operated canal system in North America. Traveling along this attractive waterway, you'll be able to unwind and take in the spectacular nature, picturesque towns and lively cities of this UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Discover more about Canada and the unique charm of each region of our cruising ground. Only our Premier Horizon Fleet is available for cruising in Canada. 

A bit of background

As it winds its way 202km (125 miles) from Ottawa to Kingston, the Rideau Canal is bursting with new experiences just waiting to be explored. Whether you like taking in abundant nature, discovering fascinating culture or simply indulging in some of the finer things - the Rideau Canal has something for you!

A brief history

Originally intended as a military supply route between Montreal and Kingston in the event of an American invasion of Canada. Construction of the canal, under the charge of Lt. Colonel John By, began in 1826 through a wilderness of rough bush, swamps and rocky terrain. The 19th century working conditions were grueling and the work was done by hand. An estimated 1,000 men died during the six years of construction. Today, the Rideau Canal is one of North America’s most beautiful navigable waterways, with exquisite stone-masonry admired to this day.

Local partner deals

We've partnered up with some of the best local businesses from the towns and villages along the Rideau to help you get the most out of your Le Boat vacation. 

Discover our range of exclusive offers, only available to Le Boat customers. 

Cruising advice

Our Canada cruises are perfect for that short escape or epic expedition. Our base is located in Smiths Falls, midway along the canal, and is the perfect starting point for long or short breaks. So whether you have a few days or several weeks, our Canada cruises are the perfect standalone vacation or accompaniment to a wider break.

Route guidance

Each of our Horizon boats in Canada have an on-board chart plotter pre-installed, for safer navigation and cruising while on the waterways. Your check-in orientation briefing at the base will cover how to use the chart plotters.

What is a chart plotter and why is it useful?

• Using sophisticated GPS technology, our chart plotters provide dock to dock route guidance, ensuring a safe passageway for our customers on the water.
• A chart plotter plans your route for you, so that you don't have to.
• Chart plotter technology can also advise on key points of interest along the route.

Waterways and lock closures

Take a look at our waterway and lock closures page to find out if there are any scheduled cruising restrictions that will affect your vacation plans.

About the Locks

There are 24 Lockstations and 47 Locks on the Rideau. Each lock has 3 to 4 staff members to help out in any way they can.

Opening Hours:

• May 21 - June 17:

Monday to Thursday 10:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. Friday to Sunday and holidays 9:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m.

• June 18 - Sept. 6:

Monday to Thursday 9:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. Friday to Sunday and holidays 9:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m.

• September 7 - October 11:

Monday to Friday 10:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. Saturday, Sunday & Thanksgiving 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.

Moorings

There are many options for overnight moorings along the Rideau; private marinas, township marinas and Parks Canada moorings (situated at lock stations) all provide overnight moorings for a fee, with varying facilities and services.

However, a mandatory fee of $70 USD / $75 CAD for short breaks or $110 USD / $120 CAD for 7nts+ will be charged to Le Boat customers and covers overnight moorings at all Parks Canada sites, as well as the township marinas of Portland, Perth and Westport (first two Le Boats moor free in Westport, standard rates for others) which represents a significantly reduced rate than the fee charged locally at each of these moorings sites. All overnight moorings are operated on a first-come, first-served basis and exclude services such as shore power.