Welcome to the first in our series on harbours at the Great Lakes. Today, we’ll be exploring the delights of Toronto Harbour, a bustling port on the northwest shore of Lake Ontario. From marinas designed for the ultimate pleasure boater experience to top-notch amenities, Toronto Harbour offers something for everyone.
Toronto Harbour: A Snapshot
Toronto Harbour is a bustling hub for all things nautical, boasting stunning views of the Toronto skyline. With an abundance of marinas, boat ramps, and amenities, it’s the perfect base for exploring Lake Ontario’s many treasures.
Marinas Galore: A Boater’s Paradise
Toronto Harbour is home to several marinas, each designed to cater to the needs of the discerning pleasure boater. These marinas offer a range of services, including boat storage, repairs, fuel docks, and washrooms. You can also find transient slips, available on a first-come, first-served basis, letting you enjoy Lake Ontario’s beauty without any long-term commitment.
Harbourfront Centre Marinas
Harbourfront Centre in Toronto operates three distinct marina facilities catering to various boating needs:
Marina Quay West
Amenities:
- 30-amp shore power and fresh water (50-amp outlets available on the north wall)
- Washrooms and showers
- Coin-operated laundry facilities
- Dock attendants and maintenance support
- On-site security
- Proximity to the Toronto Music Garden
Rates (Effective January 6, 2025):
- Visitor Dockage:
- Under 40 feet: $2.80 per foot per night
- 40 feet and over: $3.40 per foot per night
- Seasonal Dockage (May 1 – October 15): $138.00 per foot
- Monthly Dockage (30 consecutive days): $46.00 per foot
Marina Four
Amenities:
- 30-amp shore power and fresh water
- Washrooms and showers
- Coin-operated laundry facilities
- Dock attendants and maintenance support
- On-site security
- Proximity to Harbourfront Centre’s cultural events and festivals
Rates (Effective January 6, 2025):
- Visitor Dockage:
- Under 40 feet: $2.80 per foot per night
- 40 feet and over: $3.40 per foot per night
- Seasonal Dockage (May 1 – October 15): $145.00 per foot
- Monthly Dockage (30 consecutive days): $46.00 per foot
- Drop-In (Visits 3 hours or less between 9 am – 5 pm, space permitting):
- Under 40 feet: $39.83 flat rate
- Dinghies and PWC’s: $13.27 flat rate
John Quay
Amenities:
- 50-amp shore power (limited availability)
- Washrooms, showers, and laundry facilities available within adjacent Marina Four
- Proximity to Harbourfront Centre’s cultural events and festivals
Rates (Effective January 6, 2025):
- Drop-In (Visits 3 hours or less between 9 am – 5 pm, space permitting):
- Under 40 feet: $39.83 flat rate
- 40 feet and over: $48.67 flat rate
- Visitor Overnight Dockage:
- 40 feet – 74 feet: $3.40 per foot per night
- 75 feet – 120 feet: $5.00 per foot per night
Bluffers Park Marina
Bluffers Park Marina is a full-service marina located at the base of the Scarborough Bluffs in Toronto. It offers a range of boating services, including seasonal and transient dockage, maintenance, and recreational facilities.
Amenities
- 50-amp shore power available
- Washrooms and showers
- Laundry facilities (coin-operated)
- On-site mechanics for boat repairs and maintenance
- Fuel dock with regular gasoline and diesel
- Dining options:
- Full-service restaurant
- Pub with casual dining
- Snack bar for quick bites
- Mast crane and storage for sailing vessels
- 40-ton mobile lift for boats up to a 16.5-foot beam
- Secure docks and yards for boat safety
- Canada Customs Phone-In Centre for international arrivals
Rates (Effective 2025)
Drop-In (Visits 3 hours or less, 9 AM – 5 PM, space permitting)
- Under 40 feet: $39.83 flat rate
- 40 feet and over: $48.67 flat rate
Visitor Overnight Dockage
- 40 feet – 74 feet: $3.40 per foot per night
- 75 feet – 120 feet: $5.00 per foot per night
For more details or to make a reservation, visit the Bluffers Park Marina website or call 416-266-4556.
Accessible Boat Ramps
For those who prefer to bring their own vessels, Toronto Harbour provides several boat ramps for easy access to Lake Ontario. These ramps are well-maintained and are strategically located throughout the harbour for your convenience.
Essential Amenities for a Comfortable Stay
Toronto Harbour doesn’t just offer access to the open waters; it also ensures your stay is comfortable. The marinas provide all essential amenities, including restrooms, showers, laundry facilities, Wi-Fi, and picnic areas. You can also find convenience stores for last-minute purchases, and some marinas even have their own restaurants and bars.
Beyond the Harbour: Entertainment and Restaurants
Toronto Harbour is not just about boating; it’s a gateway to Toronto’s vibrant entertainment scene. Steps away from the harbour, you’ll find an array of restaurants, shops, and entertainment venues.
Savour the Flavours of Toronto
From upscale dining to casual eateries, Toronto’s culinary scene is diverse and exciting. Near the harbour, you can enjoy everything from fresh seafood at Pearl Harbourfront Chinese Restaurant, to Canadian-inspired dishes at Canoe, or a delicious fusion of flavours at Miku Toronto.
Entertainment Around the Corner
Toronto’s entertainment scene is bustling with live music venues, theatres, and art galleries. Catch a show at the Harbourfront Centre Theatre, or take in the contemporary art at the Power Plant. For a more relaxed evening, take a leisurely stroll along the harbourfront promenade and enjoy the breathtaking views.
The Harbour Fee: A Token for Your Adventure
Access to this incredible harbour comes with a nominal fee. The Toronto Harbour fee is a small price to pay for the wealth of experiences it offers. For every vessel entering the harbour, a fee of $20 is charged. This fee contributes to the maintenance and management of the harbour, ensuring that it remains a safe and enjoyable place for all visitors.
So, whether you’re a seasoned boater or a casual visitor, Toronto Harbour offers a unique blend of nautical adventure and city excitement. With its well-equipped marinas, diverse entertainment, and exquisite dining options, it’s no wonder that Toronto Harbour is the perfect starting point for your Great Lakes adventure. Stay tuned for the next stop on our Great Lakes harbour series!
Note: All prices are subject to change without prior notice. Please check with the respective marinas for the most accurate and current information.
Use the share button below if you liked it.