Trent-Severn Waterway and Kawartha Lakes

Name: Trent-Severn
Brand: Le Boat
SKU: TSW
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About Trent-Severn

Enjoy an unforgettable journey as you discover the history-filled paradise of the Trent-Severn Waterway and Kawartha Lakes

Embark on a captivating journey along the Trent-Severn Waterway and Kawartha Lakes, an enchanting natural paradise that unveils the true essence of Central Ontario.Stretching across 386 kilometers, the Trent-Severn Waterway presents a remarkable blend of natural wonders and engineering brilliance, captivating all who venture along its serene path. Begin your adventure at our Peterborough base, conveniently located just a short drive outside of Peterborough town along the Otonabee River. Whether you’re seeking a houseboat rental or a luxurious vessel from our fleet, prepare to relax and unwind as you absorb the area’s rich history and the tranquility of its picturesque towns and vibrant cities along your journey.

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The perfect boating region for…

Fishing

The lakes and rivers of the Trent-Severn Waterway offer great fishing opportunities including Largemouth Bass, Smallmouth Bass, Northern Pike, Muskie, Panfish, Carp, Catfish and Walleye. Fishing regulations and seasons apply, so it’s important to consult local fishing regulations and guidelines before fishing in the Trent-Severn Waterway.

Nature

The Trent-Severn Waterway and the Kawartha Lakes are well-known as a nature-lovers paradise. Filled with many species of wildlife to discover, the area will deliver plentiful daily spottings.

Family

The Trent-Severn Waterway and Kawartha Lakes have everything you could need for the perfect family holiday. Make a splash with watersports, then discover all the adventure Canadian culture has to offer at the towns and cities along the way.

Outdoor activities

The region is well-known for its access to nature and the great outdoors. Some favorite local experiences include paddling, cycling, birding, and wildlife viewing in area parks such as Kawartha Highlands and Mark S. Burnham Provincial Park.

Contact our travel experts

Marcus has been an integral part of Le Boat’s sales team for several years, so knows our destinations and fleet very well. After many cruises with us he particularly loves our stunning Irish and Italian destinations!

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Call 020 3468 2247

Useful information

Download our region guide

We’ve produced a handy PDF guide for this region to give you an overview of all the stops and things to do along the waterway.
Download our region guide

Stretching across a remarkable 386 kilometers (240 miles) from Lake Ontario to Georgian Bay, the Trent-Severn Waterway, a National Historic Site of Canada, and the Kawarthas beckons with an array of captivating opportunities awaiting to be explored.

The Trent-Severn is located on the Treaty and Traditional Territory of the Mississauga Anishinaabe, offering you the opportunity to discover Indigenous culture. The Trent-Severn Waterway also holds a rich historical legacy that weaves through the heart of Canada. Its origins trace back to the early 19th century when the need for a navigable route between Lake Ontario and Lake Huron became apparent. In 1833, construction on the waterway commenced, driven by the vision of connecting the Great Lakes to facilitate trade and transportation. Over the next several decades, a remarkable feat of engineering unfolded as canals, locks, and dams were meticulously built, utilizing both human labor and innovative engineering techniques of the time. The waterway’s completion came in 1920, marking the realization of a remarkable inland navigation route spanning diverse landscapes, from serene lakes to winding rivers. Today, the Trent-Severn Waterway stands as a testament to human ingenuity, offering recreational opportunities, preserving heritage, and inviting exploration of the picturesque Canadian countryside along its historic path.

Our Canada cruises are perfect for that short escape or epic expedition. Our base is located near Peterborough, midway along the Trent-Severn Waterway cruising area, and is the perfect starting point for long or short breaks in the Kawarthas. So whether you have a few days or several weeks, our cruises are the perfect standalone vacation or accompaniment to a longer break.

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.

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

The locks along the Trent-Severn Waterway are all manned by Parks Canada staff. All locks along the waterway are hydraulic and can be opened by the simple push of a button.

Opening Hours:

May 16 – June 19: Monday to Thursday 10:00 – 15:30. Friday to Sunday 09:00 – 18:30.

June 20 – September 1: Monday to Thursday 09:00 – 17:30. Friday to Sunday 09:00 – 18:30.

September 2 – October 13: Monday to Friday 10:00 – 15:30. Saturday & Sunday 09:00 – 16:30.

Public holidays: Locks are open as normal. Victoria Day (May 19), Canada Day (July 1), Civic Holiday (August 4) and Labour Day (September 1) 09:00-18:30. Thanksgiving (October 13) 09:00 – 16:30.

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

To find out how to get to our base in this boating region, as well as what facilities and amenities are available nearby, click on the links below:

Peterborough

Hire of the boat, its facilities and equipment, which includes: – Fully equipped kitchen on board – Fridge, gas oven, hob, dishes and utensils. – Bathroom facilities on board – Hot showers, toilets and towels. – Sleeping facilities on board – Pillows, duvets and bed linen. – Heating.
Pre-departure briefing.
Boat handling demonstration.
Daily technical support and assistance from the local Emerald Star team as required.
On-board maps and visitor information
Safety equipment (inc. life jackets)

Download a detailed inventory of equipment supplied on all of our boats Supplementary fees also included:

Compulsory mooring fees for Canada, Scotland and Italy (see compulsory costs)*
One way supplement for routes starting and ending at different bases.*

*These supplementary fees are automatically added where applicable and are included in prices shown on this website. They are then shown separately in the price summary, when you proceed to book.

Optional holiday extras – see our extras page for details
Refundable Damage Deposit – deposit payable locally. See compulsory costs for details.
Fuel (diesel, gas, engine wear and tear). Deposit and charge payable locally. See compulsory costs for details.
Travel to and from the base(s)
Waterside services (moorings, pump-out, electric, water, etc.) Payable locally, where applicable and if used.
Passage through locks in Ireland & the Netherlands where a small fee is payable locally for each lock.
Cancellation cover or personal travel insurance
Food and drink

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Our base on the Trent Severn Waterway is located along the Otonobee River, in Peterborough. Horseshoe Bay Marina, previously known to locals of the Peterborough area as Willow Bend Marina, has recently undergone a full refurbishment in time for our 2024 season opening. The location of our Peterborough base offers our customers an idyllic starting point for exploring the stunning waterways of the region. Situated roughly mid-way along the Trent Severn Waterway, this base provides easy access to the vast network of lakes, rivers, and canals that the region has to offer. From here, our customers can embark on their epic cruising adventure, discovering the natural beauty of the Kawarthas and beyond.

Travel connections

- 3.3km Peterborough (CYPQ)
- 125km Toronto Pearson International Airport (YYZ)

7.4km Peterborough

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Travel connections

- 3.3km Peterborough (CYPQ)
- 125km Toronto Pearson International Airport (YYZ)

7.4km Peterborough

Sounds interesting? Find out More

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Trent-Severn map

Emerald Star Base

Navigable waters

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Route suggestions

To help you get an idea of how far you can travel in the time you have, here’s a selection of routes to and from our bases in this region. You dont have to stop at all the places listed or follow the route exactly. So long as you return your boat to your end base by the date you’ve booked – you’re free to enjoy your cruise however you like. For a comfortable pace, allowing you time to regularly stop and explore, we’d recommend an average of 2 – 4 hours cruising each day.

Please note: Any route suggestions and itineraries on the Emerald Star website are examples only and any of the suggested potential routes, attractions, restaurants, towns, villages or sections of the waterway included in them may not always be open or accessible at time of cruising.

= Click the arrow icon on each route suggestion, to flip the 'card' and reveal more details.

Peterborough

Peterborough Lift Lock

Lakefield

Young's Point

Burleigh Falls

Lovesick Island

Buckhorn

Bobcaygeon

Peterborough

Peterborough RETURN via Bobcaygeon

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Overview

A cruise northwards take you through the iconic lift lock in Peterborough and on to the open waters of Kawartha Lakes, reknown for their friendly lakeside towns and welcoming holiday vibe.

Top highlights:

Pass through the world’s highest lift lock in Peterborough
Kayaking in Burleigh Falls
Bobcaygeon – a bustling and friendly tourist hotspot with a beach, boutiques and eateries.

Example itinerary:

The following is only an example, you can explore this area in whichever order you want, so long as your boat is back at the end base at the end of your vacation

Peterborough Lift Lock: The Peterborough Lift Lock (Lock 21) is one of only two hydraulic lift locks on the waterway as well as the highest lift lock in the world. If you want to know everything there is to know about the highest lift lock in the world, visit the Parks Canada Visitor Centre right beside the lock.
Lakefield: Known for its stunning natural beauty, Lakefield is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers. From its picturesque lakes and rivers to its lush forests and scenic trails, there is no shortage of things to see and do in this charming town. Enjoy a beautiful boardwalk along the Otonabee River and a lovely beach.
Young’s Point: Young’s Point (Lock 27) is a popular overnight mooring location for many boaters due to the beautiful park area next to it. Good fishing is also found at this lock.
Burleigh Falls: Recreational boating, particularly canoeing, has long been popular around Burleigh Falls. The area has also been popular with fishermen since the days of the pioneers and in recent years, the rapids have become a firm favourite among kayaking enthusiasts.
Lovesick Island: Lovesick Lock (Lock 30) is located on an island, and therefore only accessible by boat – a unique feature on the Trent Severn Waterway. The natural beauty of the setting and island seclusion makes this lock station an extremely popular overnight stop.
Buckhorn: Visit Adam and Eve rocks. This pair of large rocks, left behind by a glacier, comes with a romantic legend. Apparently, if a couple holds hand and touches them, their lives will be eternally blessed.
Bobcaygeon: Bobcaygeon, pronounced “bounce ca-je-wan-unk”, is a popular tourist destination and is famous for being the home of the first lock in 1834. This town bustles with high-end shops and friendly service, offering something for just about everyone to enjoy. Don’t miss the Bigley family of shoe and clothing stores or a chance to grab a famous Kawartha Dairy ice cream cone. Visit the beach or any of the cozy shops right next to the lock.

Peterborough

Hastings

Campbellford

Peterborough

Peterborough RETURN via Campbellford

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Overview

Time to slow down, enjoy the water and the great outdoors and embrace the quiet villages and small-town charm on this leisurely cruise to the south of Peterborough.

Top highlights:

Fishing in Hastings
The powerful tumbing water (when the gates are open) at Healey Falls
Quaint shops and eateries in Campbellford

Example itinerary:

The following is only an example, you can explore this area in whichever order you want, so long as your boat is back at the end base at the end of your vacation

Peterborough/Ashburnham: Known as the “Electric City”, this bustling metropolis has something for everyone. Here you can find plenty of great shops and restaurants, as well as stellar local bakeries participating on the region’s famous ‘Butter Tart Tour, each serving up their take on this Canadian classic treat.
Hastings: Hastings offers a perfect blend of small-town charm and outdoor adventure. Take a leisurely stroll along the waterfront and marvel at the picturesque views of the shimmering water. Fishing enthusiasts will find themselves in paradise as the village is renowned for its excellent fishing opportunities.
Healey Falls: Take a walk to the dam, a short distance from the lock. If the gates are open, you’ll experience the power of the water as it crashes through the gates and tumbles down the rocky steps into the waterway below.
Campbellford: Immerse yourself in the surroundings of this picturesque town as you stroll along the downtown streets lined with quaint shops, restaurants, and inviting boutiques. Unique attractions include a swing bridge, the Memorial Military Museum, and a giant replica of Canada’s two-dollar coin. The town also has famous donuts, a cheese factory and a chocolate plant.

Great to see…

This 15-metre rise or drop is also a thrilling ride along the waterway. Stop for lunch at the diner or the picnic area, then walk up to the top of the lock to watch the boats load and unload.

Coboconk is located on the pristine waters of Balsam Lake. It is home to Canada’s Fresh Water Summit, which is the highest elevation of navigable water in Canada and third highest in the world. With everything from arts, culture and heritage experiences to paddling and camping at Balsam Lake Provincial Park, this area offers something for every visitor.

Rosedale (Lock 35) is a secluded lock station surrounded by magnificent scenery and is a popular spot for a day picnic and overnight mooring. Great overnight accommodations, including oTENTik campsites with paddle docks, await visitors on nearby Dewey’s Island.

After you admire the famous step falls along the main street, stick around to explore the limestone walkways and unique shops. The Kawartha Store provides original Canadian gifts and you’ll want to try one of the village’s legendary butter tarts.

Get out and stretch your legs by touring this town’s picturesque and vibrant downtown. Trek a little further to the Olde Gaol Museum for a history lesson and reward yourself with a cone from the Kawartha Dairy’s drive-through shop. (It also has a walk-up window.)

Bobcaygeon, pronounced “bounce ca-je-wan-unk”, is a popular tourist destination town in the Centre point of Kawartha Lakes and is famous for being the home of the first lock in 1834. This town bustles with high-end shops and friendly service, offering something for just about everyone to enjoy. Don’t miss the Bigley family of shoe and clothing stores or a chance to grab a famous Kawartha Dairy ice cream cone. Visit the beach or any of the cozy shops right next to the lock.

When you stop here for supplies, make time to visit Adam and Eve rocks. This pair of large rocks, left behind by a glacier, comes with a romantic legend. Apparently, if a couple holds hand and touches them, their lives will be eternally blessed. For more activities, visit the Buckhorn Welcome Center.

lovesick lake - Courtesy of Peterborough & the Kawarthas Economic Development, Photo by: Justen Soule

Lovesick lock (Lock 30) is located on an island, and therefore only accessible by boat – a unique feature on the Trent-Severn Waterway. The natural beauty of the setting and island seclusion makes this lock station an extremely popular overnight stop.

Recreational boating, particularly canoeing, has long been popular around Burleigh Falls. The area has also been popular with fishermen since the days of the pioneers and in recent years, the rapids have become a firm favourite among kayaking enthusiasts. In the nearby village, there’s also the Burleigh Falls Inn and the Little Grill Bistro which serves good, pub style food.

Young’s Point (Lock 27) is a popular overnight mooring location for many boaters due to the beautiful park area next to it. Good fishing is also found at this lock. Young’s Point General Store, Lockside Trading Company and Lock 27 Tap & Grill are all great stops situated near this lock.

Known for its stunning natural beauty, Lakefield is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers. From its picturesque lakes and rivers to its lush forests and scenic trails, there is no shortage of things to see and do in this charming town. Enjoy a beautiful boardwalk along the Otonabee River and a lovely beach. The shops specialities range from local scenery paintings to tarts and original ice cream flavours – all within a 10-minute walk from the locks. Lakefield is also home to iconic Canadian authors – Margaret Laurence, Susanna Moodie, Catharine Parr Traill, Samuel Strickland… a history that is celebrated at the Christ Church Community Museum.

The Peterborough Lift Lock is located near shopping and dining in Peterborough’s ‘East City’ and is also close to downtown shopping, dining, live music, arts, and culture. The Peterborough Lift Lock (Lock 21) is one of only two hydraulic lift locks on the waterway as well as the highest lift lock in the world. Opened on July 9, 1904, this engineering marvel was the first lock built out of concrete and can take you almost 20 metres either up or down so you can continue to travel along the Trent Canal. If you want to know everything there is to know about the highest lift lock in the world, visit the Parks Canada Visitor Centre right beside the lock. Quiet overnight mooring is also located at the upper level.

Known as the “Electric City”, this bustling metropolis has something for everyone. The Info Centre for Peterborough & the Kawarthas Tourism is at the corner of King & George, so you can have all your questions answered right there and get the scoop on current local events. Dock at Ashburnham (Lock 20) and you’ll be within easy walking distance to Ashburnham Village and Hunter Street. Here you can find plenty of great shops and restaurants.

Situated along the scenic Trent-Severn Waterway, Hastings offers a perfect blend of small-town charm and outdoor adventure. Take a leisurely stroll along the waterfront and marvel at the picturesque views of the shimmering water. Fishing enthusiasts will find themselves in paradise as the village is renowned for its excellent fishing opportunities.

Located approximately 11 kilometres (7 miles) upstream from the Town of Campbellford, they are tucked in a nice corner of Northumberland County amidst the Trent Hills. The picturesque falls are especially spectacular in the spring or whenever there are high river flows.

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Campbellford offers a delightful escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. Immerse yourself in the surroundings of this picturesque town as you stroll along the downtown streets lined with quaint shops, restaurants, and inviting boutiques. Unique attractions include a swing bridge, the Memorial Military Museum, and a giant replica of Canada’s two-dollar coin. The town also has famous donuts, a cheese factory and a chocolate plant.

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Frankford (Lock 6) is a popular overnight stop for many travellers, with a Tourist Park adjacent to the canal with camping facilities and a small beach. Amenities are located within a five minute walk to the centre of Frankford Village. Also within walking distance is a 9 Hole Golf Course, Splash Park & Playground.

Like Swift Rapids, this is a lovely refuge to stop and breathe near the start or end of your journey. To get a sense of the waterway’s history, visit the lockmaster’s house for a peek back in time.

Set along the Bay of Quinte, Trenton is known for its military ties, including Canadian Forces Base Trenton. The National Air Force Museum of Canada exhibits over 30 aircraft, while Trent Port Museum is set inside the original 1861 Town Hall. Presqu’ile Point Lighthouse and a sandy beach are the centrepieces of Presqu’ile Provincial Park on Lake Ontario. Panoramic views of Trenton can be seen from Mount Pelion Park.

Trent-Severn Waterway and Kawartha Lakes

About Trent-Severn

Enjoy an unforgettable journey as you discover the history-filled paradise of the Trent-Severn Waterway and Kawartha Lakes

Interactive map

No license or experience required

The perfect boating region for…

Fishing

Nature

Family

Outdoor activities

A bit of background

A brief history

Cruising Advice

Route Guidance

Waterway and lock closures

About the locks

Moorings

Getting to our base

What's included in the price?

What's NOT included in the price?

Search this region

Please select a start date and duration above!

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Select your route

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Trent-Severn map

Route suggestions

Peterborough RETURN via Bobcaygeon

25 hr(s) of cruising

Peterborough RETURN via Bobcaygeon

25 hr(s) of cruising

Peterborough RETURN via Campbellford

22 hr(s) of cruising

Peterborough RETURN via Campbellford

22 hr(s) of cruising

Kirkfield Lift Lock

Coboconk

Rosedale

Fenelon Falls

Lindsay

Bobcaygeon

Buckhorn

Lovesick Island

Burleigh Falls

Young's Point

Lakefield

Peterborough Lift Lock

Peterborough

Hastings

Healey Falls

Campbellford

Frankford

Batawa

Trenton

Boat Classification

Boat Features

Boat Classification

Boat Features