Le Boat Canada, much to my delight, has become one my most beloved Canadian summer traditions. Whether it’s cruising with 10 of my best girlfriends, bringing my parents and dogs along for the ride, or sneaking in a romantic getaway just out of Ottawa to catch the fireworks over Parliament Hill, I’ve done it all.
This year, I took the scenic route down memory lane with my new partner, two of my besties, and their partners out of Smiths Falls. Needless to say, we kept things fun and fabulous as always, with plenty of laughs, great food, and those moments that make every Le Boat trip unforgettable.
What is Le Boat Canada?
Le Boat launched in Canada in 2018, starting with a base in the charming town of Smiths Falls. Since then, it has expanded its operations to include Ottawa and, most recently, Peterborough, opening up new waterways for adventurers. Le Boat gives travellers access to some of the most picturesque towns and villages along the Rideau Canal and the Trent-Severn Waterway. Along the way, you’ll find stops like Perth, Merrickville, and Westport, where you can explore local shops, sample fantastic food, or simply take in the beauty of each spot.
What sets Le Boat apart is their fleet of custom-built boats, designed for comfort and convenience. Each boat comes with a fully equipped kitchen, so whether you’re whipping up a quick breakfast or preparing a gourmet dinner, you’ve got everything you need right on board. If you’d rather not leave the deck, no problem – the boats also feature a top-deck grill, perfect for casual outdoor dining while soaking up the views. With spacious cabins, comfortable lounges, and all the amenities you’d expect from a floating vacation home, these boats make it easy to enjoy life on the water without ever feeling like you have to head ashore.
Another great feature? No boating experience is required! Le Boat provides all the training you need to navigate the waterways with confidence, ensuring that your trip is smooth and stress-free from start to finish.
What to Expect on a Le Boat Trip
A Le Boat vacation offers the perfect mix of relaxation and adventure. Whether you’re craving quiet moments floating on calm waters or the excitement of exploring new towns, each day brings a different experience. You can customize your itinerary to suit your mood: spend a leisurely day on the water, soaking in the sunshine and stunning views, or dock at one of the picturesque towns along the way for shopping, sightseeing, or dining.
One of the best parts of a Le Boat trip is the incredible staff you meet along the way. Parks Canada staff are stationed at each lock, ready to assist and reassure – especially helpful for first-time boaters. In fact, during my most recent trip, I was thrilled to run into Ian, our favourite lockmaster. Two years ago, during my divorce party, Ian had expertly guided us as we docked the boat, turning what could have been a nerve-wracking experience into a fun one. We took a selfie with him then, and naturally, when we saw him again this year, we made him take another!
There’s something special about being on the water – the world continues as it always does, but without the constant backdrop of buildings, traffic, and noise. Life slows down, and it feels like your mind has space to breathe, and your soul has room to expand. Whether you’re cruising in the stillness of early morning or watching the sunset reflect off the water, there’s a peacefulness that’s hard to find anywhere else.
With no set schedule, you’re in control of your own adventure. Fancy a swim? Drop anchor in a secluded spot. Want to explore? Pull into a vibrant town like Perth or Merrickville, where you’ll find plenty to see and do, from local farmers’ markets to quaint shops and cafés. Each day on the water is yours to create, whether it’s filled with quiet relaxation or spontaneous adventure.
Why Le Boat Canada is Perfect for Group Travel with Friends
Le Boat Canada is an ideal way to spend quality time with friends, especially when travelling as couples. The beauty of Le Boat is that every cabin on board is equally comfortable, so there’s no “best” room – everyone wins! Each cabin comes with its own private washroom, offering both convenience and privacy, which makes the experience all the more enjoyable for group travel.
Planning ahead made our trip run smoothly. We decided that each couple would be responsible for preparing a meal, and this turned out to be a brilliant idea. With foodies in our group, we had some unforgettable meals on board, from smoked gouda pasta to Bibimbap. Thanks to the fully equipped kitchen and grill, cooking felt effortless, and the small towns along the way made it easy to grab any last-minute ingredients or local treats.
When it came time to unwind, Le Boat’s design meant there was always a comfortable spot to gather together – whether up on deck enjoying the views or below in the lounge area. We loved spending our evenings socializing with everyone, but the boat also offered plenty of space for each couple to find a quiet corner to relax and connect. It’s the perfect balance of shared moments and a little private time when you need it.
Le Boat trips are hands-on, and part of the fun is that everyone gets involved. From taking turns as captain to navigating the waters or being the snack provider, each person plays a role. It makes the trip feel like a team effort and keeps everyone engaged. Plus, it adds a light-hearted, interactive touch to the journey.
And if you’re looking to tailor your experience, Le Boat offers a variety of boats to fit different group sizes and budgets. The Horizon 5 we had was perfect for our group of six but can sleep up to 12. There are smaller options for those who want a more intimate setting. Whatever you choose, you’re guaranteed comfort and an unforgettable time on the water.
Relaxing on the Rideau Canal
Whether we were moored at a dock or cruising peacefully along the water, every moment on our Le Boat trip was pure perfection. The Rideau Canal is breathtakingly beautiful, and as we glided past quaint little towns and stunning landscapes, we couldn’t help but feel completely connected to nature. But more than the backdrop, it was the experience itself that made this trip unforgettable. We laughed so hard our stomachs hurt by the end of each day, and what Le Boat really gave us was the chance to leave behind the everyday stresses and just enjoy each other’s company. We’re already talking about our next trip. France anyone?
Read about Previous Adventures Here:
Girls’ Trip with Le Boat on the Rideau
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