Ottawa, the capital of Canada known for its politics and culture, also has unique natural landscapes, especially the Otawa River and its surrounding areas, which have become a paradise for water sports enthusiasts. The clear waters and magnificent scenery of the Otawa River provide a rich selection of water activities suitable for all kinds of tourists.
For those who like to relax and have a leisurely time, boating and canoeing are ideal choices. You can drift on the tranquil river and enjoy the beautiful skyline of Ottawa and the surrounding green vegetation. For tourists who seek excitement and adventure, kayaking rafting is a must-see activity. Challenge yourself in the magnificent river water and feel the power of rapids and nature.
There are many picturesque lakes and nature reserves around the Otawa River, where tourists can enjoy close contact with nature by paddling, fishing and other activities. Here, both adventurers and leisure travelers can find a water activity that suits them.
1. Ottawa River Boating and Kayaking
Overview
The Ottawa River is one of the most representative natural landscapes in the city and an ideal place for water activities. Many travelers come here and choose to row or kayak to enjoy the beautiful scenery that blends with the city and nature. Especially in summer, the warm climate and clear waters provide perfect conditions for outdoor activities.
Location
Boating and kayaking activities on the Ottawa River are usually offered at multiple locations near the city, the most popular of which are the Ottawa River Canoe Club in the city center and the area around Rideau Falls.
Opening hours
Most kayaking and rowing services are open from May to October. The best times to experience are usually in the morning and evening when the temperature is comfortable and the scenery is the most beautiful.
Recommended time
About 2-3 hours. For beginners or tourists who want to relax, a 2-hour kayaking trip is enough to enjoy the tranquility and beauty on the water.
Transportation route
From downtown Ottawa, take public transportation (such as OC Transpo buses) to major boating activity locations, most of which are about 10 to 20 minutes drive from the city center.
Fees
The fees vary depending on the rental time and service content. Single kayak rental is about 15 Canadian dollars per hour, and double kayak or rowing rental is about 30 Canadian dollars per hour.
Booking platform
Canada Canoe: Provides a variety of kayak rental services, which can be booked online in advance.
Rideau Canoe Club: It is also a very well-known local rental platform. Visitors can book online or by phone.
2. Rideau Canal Cruises and Water Sports
Overview
Rideau Canal is another major water sports hotspot in Ottawa. Especially in summer, you can enjoy the city’s history and culture by taking a leisurely cruise on Rideau Canal. In winter, it turns into the world’s longest ice skating rink, a paradise for winter sports enthusiasts.
Location
Rideau Canal stretches from downtown Ottawa to the surrounding towns, running through the core of the city, close to major attractions such as Parliament Hill and ByWard Market.
Opening Hours
Summer (May to October) is the peak season for cruise activities, and the opening hours are usually from 9 am to 6 pm every day.
Suggested Tour Time
The cruise takes about 1.5 to 2 hours, visiting the main attractions of Route Canal, and you can hear the guide explain Ottawa’s history and culture along the way.
Transportation Route
It is very convenient to walk to the starting point of Rideau Canal from the city center. Visitors can walk directly on the main streets of the city or take a bus to get there.
Cost
Cruise prices vary according to the season and type of boat. The general cruise ticket price is about 25 to 35 Canadian dollars per person.
Booking platform
Ottawa Boat Cruise: Provides different types of cruise experiences for tourists, including regular cruises and private charters.
Rideau Canal Cruises: Provides official cruise services, and tourists can book in advance online.
3. Canoe adventure on the Ottawa River
Overview
For tourists seeking excitement and adventure, canoe adventure on the Ottawa River is definitely an experience not to be missed. Under the guidance of professional coaches, tourists can experience challenging water sports and enjoy the natural scenery of Ottawa along the way.
Location
Canoe activities on the Ottawa River often depart from downtown Ottawa, especially near Aylmer Beach or Ottawa River Parkway.
Opening hours
Summer (June to September) is the best time. Activities usually start in the morning and afternoon.
Recommended time for a canoe trip
For beginners, it is recommended to choose a short adventure of half an hour to one hour for the first canoeing activity. Experienced tourists can choose a more challenging canoeing trip of 2 hours or more.
Transportation route
Visitors can choose taxis or public transportation to the activity starting point from downtown Ottawa, and the journey usually takes between 15 and 20 minutes.
Cost
The rental fee of a canoe varies according to the duration and type, usually between 20 Canadian dollars and 50 Canadian dollars per hour.
Booking platform
Ottawa River Expedition: Provides professional canoe adventure services, and tourists can make reservations by phone.
Capital Canoe & Kayak: Provides canoe rentals and organized adventure activities, which can be booked online in advance.
4. Kayaking and Floating on the Ottawa River
Overview
If you like relaxing water activities, kayaking and floating on the Ottawa River are a perfect choice. These activities are suitable for families, couples or anyone who wants to enjoy the calm water surface. Tubing is a great way to enjoy the natural beauty of the Ottawa River in an extremely relaxing way.
Location
Tubing is available in several locations in Ottawa, especially near downtown Ottawa River Park and Rideau Falls.
Opening hours
Kayaking and tubing are usually open in the summer and early fall, usually from 9 am to 6 pm.
Recommended time to go
Tubing usually lasts 1 to 2 hours, which is perfect for those who don’t like strenuous exercise and prefer to relax.
Transportation routes
Visitors can choose public transportation or bicycles to reach these water activities. There are many routes in the city that lead to the relevant areas.
Cost
The price of tubing and kayaking activities is usually between 20 and 40 Canadian dollars per person, and the specific price will vary depending on the type of activity and the duration.
Booking platform
Ottawa River Adventure: provides tourists with buoyancy and kayaking rental services, which can be booked through their online platform.
Rideau Canoe Club: Provides related water activities services, and tourists can book directly online.
5. Water Adventure Around Ottawa – Mountain Lake and Waterfall Tour
Overview
Ottawa not only has the Ottawa River, but the surrounding mountain lakes and waterfalls are also excellent places for water activities. Especially in summer, some hidden attractions here, such as the lakes and waterfalls in Gatineau Park, have become ideal places for independent water adventures. Visitors can go boating, fishing or short adventures here.
Location
Gatineau Park is a very famous nature reserve around Ottawa, with many clear lakes and waterfalls, only 30 minutes drive from downtown Ottawa.
Opening hours
Summer and autumn are the best time for adventure, and water activities are generally carried out from 9 am to 7 pm.
Suggested play time
The water activities here can be arranged according to personal preferences, usually ranging from 2 hours to a day.
Transportation route
Tourists can choose to drive or take public transportation to Gatineau Park. Parking lots and multiple reception points provide convenient transportation options.
Cost
The cost of water activities in Gatineau Park is relatively low, and the cost of renting boats and fishing equipment is usually between 20 Canadian dollars and 50 Canadian dollars.
Booking platform
Gatineau Park Adventures: offers a wide range of water activities, and visitors can book in advance through their website.
Capital Region Tours: also provides customized trips with water adventure as the theme.
Ottawa and its surrounding areas are undoubtedly a paradise for water lovers. Whether you are an adventure seeker seeking excitement or just want to relax on the water, Ottawa has a wide variety of options for you. You can enjoy the beautiful scenery and tranquil waters along the way by kayaking, canoeing, and boating on the Ottawa River. For visitors who like challenges, the Ottawa River also offers a wealth of adventure experiences, such as kayaking and river crossing. If you prefer a more relaxed activity, leisurely boat trips and pontoon rafting on the Rideau Canal are also good choices.
By understanding the booking platform and relevant information of water activities in advance, you will be able to better plan your water adventure trip and ensure that you experience the most suitable activities. Ottawa’s water activities can not only relax your body and mind, but also allow you to find the perfect balance between nature and the city and enjoy a unique water adventure.
