Canada is one of the best places to explore from the water thanks to its stunning natural beauty, an abundance of wildlife, sparkling cosmopolitan cities and fantastic weather during the spring and summer months. From Vancouver to Quebec and Montreal to Ottawa, nowhere is quite as iconic as Toronto.
Home to the mighty Niagara Falls and world-famous Thousand Islands, this modern waterfront megacity is the capital of Ontario, bordering the North American state of New York and home to some of the best sailing sights to see.
Are you thinking about renting a yacht in Toronto? Here are 10 reasons why you should go ahead and book that charter today.
1. Thousand Islands
While not in the city waterfront area, the Thousand Islands are definitely worth visiting when you rent a yacht in Toronto. Located at the Eastern end of Lake Ontario, it’s a fantastic place to enjoy freshwater fishing, kayaking, watersports, nature hikes and sightseeing. With 1,864 islands stretching more than 80km – everything from luxury golf courses and theatres to secluded beaches and gastronomic restaurants awaits.
2. Toronto Harbourfront
The cultural and commercial hub of Toronto is found at the Harbourfront. The downtown city area is where you’ll find waterside eateries, upmarket bars and cocktail lounges, and an eclectic mix of nightclubs and beer gardens in the Guvernment Entertainment Complex. Queens Quay Terminal is home to art-deco galleries, while Harbourfront Centre is where you’ll find local events and festivals. During the summer, the Harbourfront is popular with the yachting crowd taking advantage of warm, sunny days, flat waters and cultural festivals and activities. Large green parks with towering maple and oak trees are just a stone’s throw away, perfect for catching live entertainment and watching the local go about their day.
3. Niagara Falls at Night
While you can’t reach the falls directly by yacht from Toronto, you can sail your way up the Niagara River to Queenston. From here, you can take another boat toward the falls or jump a taxi to Niagara Helicopters, where you can take to the skies for an aerial view of the mighty wall of cascading water. The best time to see the falls is at night when they are lit up and shown in all their glory. If you prefer to do things during the day, Ahoy Club’s first-class concierge team can organise a private chauffeur to the falls.
4. CN Tower
Towering 553m above the Toronto skyline, CN Tower is another must-see when in town. When it comes to fine dining and spectacular views, the 360 revolving restaurant that’s located 351m above the city is hard to beat. With more than 550 award-winning wines from around the world to choose between, complimentary access to the Glass Floor Levels and The Lookout with any post-meal prix fixe and the freshest local ingredients, it’s a treat for all the senses. After your meal, enjoy a stroll around Roundhouse Park as you make your way to the Harbourfront. If you’re not quite ready to settle down for the night, make your way to Chinatown to sample exotic flavours and an authentic Asian vibe.
5. Toronto Island Park
Spread out over four islands, Toronto Island Park is the perfect place to head if you’re travelling with kids and teens – or if you’re just a big id at heart. From gorgeous lakeshore beaches overlooking the Toronto skyline, play parks and kids amusement rides, walking trails, tree canopy-covered parklands and lots of local wildlife. Ward Island and Centre Island Beach are two fantastic places to take in the sunset over the city, relax with an alfresco picnic or just cool off from the heat of the day.
6. Port Dalhousie
A stop at Port Dalhousie is a popular choice when renting a yacht in Toronto. Located 27km from Toronto, and famed for being the heart of Niagra’s wine country, Port Dalhousie is a foodies paradise. With a variety of lakeside and riverfront bars and restaurants, food is definitely on the agenda. From the ever-popular Pier 61 Bar & Grill to the rustic charms of Keiserhaus, tying up at the marina and exploring great food and wine, stunning views and a quaint, quiet and largely undisturbed Canadian atmosphere. Make sure you check out the lighthouse and Lakeside park while you’re here too.
7. Grimsby Beach
Nestled between Toronto and Niagara is the small lakeside town of Grimsby. Another popular destination for wine connoisseurs and those looking to enjoy the beauty of the lake, Grimsby Beach is great for an early evening stopover on your way to the falls or Toronto city. The shorefront is home to several lakeside beaches offering fantastic views of the Toronto skyline in the far distance. Quaint wooden houses and attractions such as The Painted Ladies of Grimsby and Beamer Falls are all worth checking out. More into exploring locally produced beverages? Forty Creek Distillery gives you a sneak peek at how they make their whisky, with a tasting bar and small retail store on-site.
8. Bronte Beach Park
Bronte Beach Park has some of the best sights over Lake Ontario and is found between Burlington and Toronto. While here, why not enjoy a round of golf at Glen Abbey Golf Club, one of the largest in the country. If golf isn’t really your thing, make your way into Old Oakville and explore the rustic village town vibes with fantastic specialty shops, trendy bars and historical places of interest. Finish the day off at Bronte Harbour, found at the Eastern end of Oakville. Explore an incredible variety of antique stores, high-end jewellers, fashion boutiques, luxury spas and award-winning restaurants. Then climb on board your Toronto yacht charter and head off to your next destination.
9. North York
Bronte Beach Park has some of the best sights over Lake Ontario and is found between Burlington and Toronto. While here, why not enjoy a round of golf at Glen Abbey Golf Club, one of the largest in the country. If golf isn’t really your thing, make your way into Old Oakville and explore the rustic village town vibes with fantastic specialty shops, trendy bars and historical places of interest. Finish the day off at Bronte Harbour, found at the Eastern end of Oakville. Explore an incredible variety of antique stores, high-end jewellers, fashion boutiques, luxury spas and award-winning restaurants. Then climb on board your Toronto yacht charter and head off to your next destination.
The Best Way to Visit Toronto
When it comes to exploring Toronto during the spring, summer and fall, a Lake Ontario yacht charter is the best way to go. Soak up sweeping vistas, iconic cityscapes and local hidden gems without the time-consuming and often overcrowded public transport. With most of the places on this list being lakeside, marinas and harbours can be found almost everywhere – ideal for stopping off as you navigate your way around the immense shoreline.
Whether you’re looking to rent a yacht in Toronto or want to up the ante and charter a superyacht for your next vacation, Ahoy Club has a fantastic selection to choose from. No matter your requirements, we’re here to make sure you enjoy the trip of a lifetime in absolute style, class and luxury.
