Boating

Surrounded by water, Northumberland is a recreational boater's paradise in Ontario. With Lake Ontario in the south, Rice Lake to the north and the historic Trent-Severn Waterway (TSW) at Northumberland's north east boundary, there are countless opportunities for those who love to live life on the water. 

The Trent-Severn Waterway which includes beautiful Rice Lake is open for navigation from late May long weekend to mid-October and is a wonderful way to view the picturesque landscapes and be part of this internationally-known waterway. At the locks you'll find spacious camping (for a nominal fee per night), convenient washroom facilities, along with canoe and kayak accessibility at a few of our locks (see our new paddling itineraries). You can take your motorized or self-propelled boat through the locks with many marinas, campsites, and public and private boat launches easily accessed. 

Sailing on Lake Ontario offers an experience like no other. With transient slips available in Cobourg and Brighton marinas, sailors and land lovers can enjoy the best of both worlds with nearby boutiques, cafes and fine dining. These towns also offer excellent festival and events such as the Cobourg Waterfront Festival on the Canada Day weekend, Cobourg Sandcastle Festival, Cobourg Ribfest and Concerts in the Park in Brighton.

For a guide to boating in Northumberland County, download the printable and accessible map.

New in 2024: Luxury houseboat rentals courtesy of Le Boat. Eat, sleep and live on board as you cruise on a luxury Horizon cruiser. Le Boat's experienced team will teach you and your crew everything you need to know to embark on your captivating journey along the Trent-Severn Waterway and Northumberland region – no boat license or prior boating experience required.  Cruises begin and end at Le Boat's base located on the Otonabee River and you can choose from a 3 to 6 night short break or a 7 to 10+ night vacation. Boats range in size from 2 cabins, 3 cabins or 4 cabins and sleep 2-9 people.

Please check with all business, attractions and local municipalities as needed to confirm hours of operation and health and safety protocols.