Best Hidden Gem & Secret Spots in Toronto You Must Visit on a Boat

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Introduction: Unveiling Toronto’s Waterfront Wonders

Toronto, the vibrant capital of Ontario, is home to an array of hidden gems and secret spots best explored by boat. If you’re considering “Sailing Near Me” Toronto’s beautiful waterfront is the answer. You can unlock the city’s most scenic and secluded treasures by chartering a yacht rental or cruising on a catamaran sailboat. This article uncovers the top ten secret spots in Toronto that you must visit by boat.

Toronto Islands: An Oasis Near the Cit

Firstly, the Toronto Islands are a tranquil oasis just off the city’s bustling downtown area. Comprising a group of 15 small islands, this quiet escape offers the opportunity to explore serene beaches, picnic in peaceful parks, and bike through charming trails. A Toronto yacht rental is a perfect way to navigate these islands, offering panoramic skyline views that create a stunning backdrop for a memorable day out.

The Revitalized Port Lands: A Blend of Urban and Natural Beauty

Next on the list is the revitalized Port Lands area. Once an industrial district, this region has become an eco-friendly hub boasting a harmonious blend of urban charm and natural beauty. The Port Lands’ calm waters are ideal for sailing, while the area’s Cherry Beach is a popular destination for water sports enthusiasts. Dock your yacht rental and explore the vibrant surroundings, offering a unique blend of city life and water-based activities.

Humber Bay Shores: Bird-Watching Paradise

Another hidden gem is the Humber Bay Shores. Known for its stunning skyline views, this area is also a paradise for bird watchers. Navigate these waters on a catamaran sailboat, and you will have a front-row seat to some of the city’s most captivating wildlife. The tranquil Humber Bay Park offers an idyllic setting for a day of sailing and bird-watching.

Rouge National Urban Park: A Journey into Natural Heritage

A voyage to the Rouge National Urban Park is a journey into the heart of Canada’s rich natural heritage. As the country’s first national urban park, it features a unique blend of natural, cultural, and agricultural landscapes. The park’s marshlands are home to diverse wildlife species and are best explored by boat. A yacht rental is an ideal way to navigate the waters, offering a unique wildlife viewing experience.

Scarborough Bluffs: Nature’s Grandeur

The Scarborough Bluffs are a breathtaking sight to behold from the water. Standing at 90 meters at their highest point, these cliffs tower over Lake Ontario, presenting a striking contrast to the city’s modern skyline. A Toronto yacht rental provides the perfect vantage point to appreciate the grandeur of these natural formations. Whether you’re a photography enthusiast or a nature lover, the bluffs will leave you spellbound.

Harbourfront Centre: Cultural Hub on the Waterfront

At the heart of Toronto’s waterfront is the Harbourfront Centre, a bustling hub of cultural activity. From the comfort of your catamaran sailboat, you can enjoy the vibrant atmosphere, watch concerts, and view art exhibits. The center’s lively festivals and public art installations add a dash of culture to your sailing adventure.

Tommy Thompson Park: Wildlife Enthusiast’s Haven

Tommy Thompson Park, a manufactured peninsula extending five kilometres into Lake Ontario, is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts. Its calm waters are home to diverse bird species, making it an ideal spot for bird-watching. Sailing here, you might spot a diverse range of bird species or enjoy a relaxing fishing trip. This spot combines the thrill of sailing with the tranquillity of nature, making it a perfect choice for those searching for “Sailing Near Me” in Toronto.

Hanlan’s Point: A Unique Beach Experience

On the Toronto Islands, visiting Hanlan’s Point offers a unique experience. It is home to the city’s only clothing-optional beach and provides an enchanting view of the city skyline, especially at sunset. The Point’s relaxed vibe and stunning views make it a must-visit destination on your sailing journey.

Ontario Place: Sailing Around an Iconic Landmark

An iconic Toronto landmark, Ontario Place, offers a unique perspective from the water. Although it’s currently closed to land-based visitors, the surrounding waterways provide an unobstructed view of its architectural marvel. With its futuristic structures glistening against the water, sailing around Ontario Place is a visual treat.

Royal Canadian Yacht Club: A Glimpse of Sailing History

Finally, a sailing trip in Toronto would only be completed by passing the Royal Canadian Yacht Club. One of Canada’s oldest and largest yacht clubs, it exudes prestige and history. Although the club is members-only, sailing past it gives you a glimpse of the city’s rich sailing history.

Embark on a Nautical Adventure in Toronto

In conclusion, Toronto’s waterfront is a treasure trove of hidden gems waiting to be discovered on a yacht rental or a catamaran sailboat. The city’s secret spots offer a compelling blend of urban charm, natural beauty, and cultural richness, making every sailing trip an adventure.

So, the next time you wonder about “Sailing Near Me” consider embarking on a nautical journey through Toronto’s waters. The city’s best-kept secrets are waiting to be discovered.

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Let the journey begin, a world of adventures, relaxation, and memories awaits!

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YOUR SAFETY IS AT RISK

When considering chartering a yacht in Canada, we know you have many options. Some of these options look super exciting and at ridiculously great prices. Recent trends in the industry have opened the door for many unqualified individuals to purchase boats and offer charter services to the unsuspecting public. It’s easy to create a website and even easier to just list a boat on sites such as Facebook Marketplace, Kijiji, Getmyboat, Boat Setter and many others.

Unfortunately, many of these operators are NOT licensed, insured or qualified to accept your trust on the water.

In order to be licensed and insured a number of items MUST be in place. Listed are just a few.

  • The operator must be licensed by Transport Canada with a commercial license known as either:
    – Limited Master under 60tonne.
    – Small Vessel Operators Permit (SVOP).
  • The name of the vessel must be visible on the stern (back) or the registration number beginning with the letter “C” must be visible on the side of the vessel near the front. Boats with a registration number beginning with “ON” are not licensed for passengers.
  • If the vessel is under 12m (40’) it should participate in the Transport Canada Small Vessel Compliance Program and display a “Blue Decal” and have corresponding certificate.
  • If the vessel is over 12m (40’) or carries more than 12 passengers, it MUST BE INSPECTED by Transport Canada and have an inspection certificate on board.
  • All vessels must have commercial liability insurance and coverage specifically for the number of passengers approved to be carried on board.
  • The vessel must comply with commercial safety requirements beyond recreational standards. Many of these illegal operators do not have the proper training, carry proper safety equipment, nor do their recreational boats meet the design/construction requirements of a commercial, passenger carrying vessel. These illegal operators try to stay under the radar of Police/OPP/RCMP/Transport Canada by:
  • hiding the name of their vessel by hanging items over the stern
  • not letting you know where they will have you board until just before the start of your charter.
  • pick you up at a public park (where docking is not permitted).
  • suggest to you that you are friends of the owner/operator out for a ride and not a paying customer.
  • allow you to drink alcohol while the boat is underway (illegal-same as a car) but tell you to hide your bottles etc.
  • insist on a cash transaction or part of it as a way of defrauding the internet listing company.
  • Make you sign a “Charter Agreement” just before you board without giving you details of the document beforehand.

    Over the last few years there have been a number of deaths and even more accidents resulting from these types of operators. Be safe and know who you are getting on a boat with. All licensed operators should willingly display their credentials, and most are members of the Passenger & Commercial Vessel Association (PCVA).

    Link to Global News Report on Charter Accidents

Check before you book
&
Know before you Go!