The North Channel – World-Famous Freshwater Cruising

Stretching approximately 160 nautical miles from Killarney to Sault Ste. Marie, the North Channel is known for its pristine waters, quaint waterfront communities and its rugged beauty. It’s known as one of, if not the, best freshwater cruising destinations anywhere in the world catering to day boats and yachts alike.

Whether you want to get away from it all and experience glorious solitude in Group of Seven-worthy anchorages with pine trees clinging to the rocky shores of the Canadian Shield, or you want to explore the communities along the way, you can do it here.

From the urban Sault Ste Marie – the third most populous city in Northern Ontario – to the small town of Spanish, you can custom tailor your experience and spend season-after-season exploring before you get bored.

Key Boating Destinations

Killarney: Killarney is the gateway to the North Channel, known for its quaint charm and vibrant boating community. The Killarney Mountain Lodge and the Sportsman’s Inn are popular spots for boaters to dock and enjoy local hospitality. The village provides easy access to Killarney Provincial Park, a haven for hikers and nature lovers.

Little Current: Little Current, located on Manitoulin Island, is the primary port of entry for the North Channel. The town is famous for its swing bridge, which opens on the hour to allow boats to pass. Little Current hosts the annual Cruisers’ Net, a radio broadcast that connects boaters throughout the channel, providing weather updates and local news. Host Roy Eaton is celebrating 20 years of the VHF broadcasts in 2024 and is always keen to hear from boaters.

Gore Bay: Gore Bay is another key stop, offering excellent marina facilities and services. The town’s Gore Bay Marina is well-equipped and situated in a naturally protected harbor. Visitors can explore the local shops, restaurants, and the nearby Janet Head Lighthouse.

Spanish: Spanish Municipal Marina is a hidden gem, offering tranquility and beautiful landscapes. The marina is well-maintained, with modern amenities, and serves as a perfect starting point to explore the Benjamin Islands and other scenic spots.

Hilton Beach: Once a strategic location on the border of two warring factions, St. Joseph Island is now a peaceful and tranquil place. Fort St. Joseph was built on the southernmost point of the island in 1796 and destroyed in 1812. Today it’s home to an interpretive centre operated by Parks Canada. The population of Hilton Beach on the island is only 145 but the marina boasts 160-slips. If that doesn’t speak volumes to how big boating is, I don’t know what does! There are a few restaurant options a short walk from the well-kept marina worth exploring.

Sault Ste Marie: Sault Ste. Marie, aka “The Soo”, is the ideal starting point for exploring the St. Marys River and beyond. Known for its rich history and beautiful waterfront, this vibrant city offers top-notch marinas like the Roberta Bondar Marina – named after Canada’s first female astronaut and the first neurologist in space – providing excellent facilities and easy access to the Great Lakes. If you want to blend air and water, check out the Canadian Bushplane Heritiage Centre on the shores of the St. Marys River.

Yacht Charters

No Boat? No problem! Whether you want power or sail, you can charter a vessel if yours is too far to bring.

Canadian Yacht Charters offers bareboat charter, skippered cruises and day sails. The fleet includes power and sail catamarans, trawlers, and boats up to 47-feet long.

Cosmos Yacht Charters are based in Midland, but you can head up Georgian Bay to the North Channel if you have the time.

Activities and Attractions

Hiking and Exploring: The North Channel is surrounded by parks and natural reserves. Hikers can explore the trails of Killarney Provincial Park, with its breathtaking views and diverse wildlife. Baie Fine’s “Pool” is a secluded spot that attracts adventurous boaters looking to anchor and hike the nearby hills.

Fishing: The waters of the North Channel are rich with fish, making it a paradise for anglers. Common catches include salmon, trout, and bass. The serene environment and abundant fish population ensure a rewarding fishing experience.

Cultural Experiences: Throughout the North Channel, towns like Little Current and Gore Bay offer cultural festivals, local markets, and museums that provide insights into the region’s history and traditions. The Ojibwe Cultural Foundation in M’Chigeeng on Manitoulin Island is a highlight, showcasing Indigenous art, history, and culture.

Practical Tips for Boaters

Navigation: Boating in the North Channel requires careful navigation due to its numerous islands and rocky shores. Modern GPS systems and updated nautical charts are essential. The channel is well-marked, but vigilance is key, especially in narrow passages and around shoals. Remember the basic rule: if you’re don’t know, go slow!

Marina Services: The North Channel is dotted with marinas offering a range of services including fuel, repairs, and provisioning. Marinas like Hilton Beach and Richards Landing are well-equipped and provide a safe harbor for transient boaters. While there are lots of amenities, it’s always wise to call ahead to confirm fuel dock hours and availability of pump outs, slips, etc.

Weather Considerations: The weather in the North Channel, like any large body of water, can be unpredictable. Boaters should be prepared for sudden changes and check weather forecasts regularly. The west and east extremes are the most sheltered with the stretch from Bruce Mines to Spanish being more wide open and susceptible to wind and wave.

Marinas

Killarney

• Killarney Mountain Lodge
  • Website
  • Maximum length: 125 feet
• Sportsman’s Inn
  • Website
  • Maximum Length: 100 feet

Little Current

• Spider Bay Marina
  • Website
  • Number of slips/size of facility: 130 slips
  • Maximum length: 80 feet
• Downtown Docks
  • Website
  • Number of slips/size of facility: 120 slips

Gore Bay

• Gore Bay Marina
  • Website
  • Number of slips/size of facility: 221 slips
  • Maximum length: 100 feet

Spanish

• Spanish Municipal Marina
  • Website
  • Number of slips/size of facility: 125 slips
  • Maximum length: 80 feet

Blind River

• Blind River Marina
  • Website
  • Number of slips/size of facility: 70 slips
  • Maximum length: 100 feet

Thessalon

• Thessalon Marina
  • Website
  • Number of slips/size of facility: 40 slips
  • Maximum length: 96 feet

Bruce Mines

• Bruce Mines Marina
  • Website
  • Number of slips/size of facility: 35 slips
  • Maximum length: 65 feet

Hilton Beach

• Hilton Beach Marina
  • Website
  •  Number of slips/size of facility: 160 slips
  •  Maximum length: 75 feet

Richards Landing

• Richards Landing Municipal Marina
  • Website
  • Number of slips/size of facility: 72 slips
  • Maximum length: 100 feet

Sault Ste. Marie

• Bellevue Marina
  • Website
  • Number of slips: 155
• Roberta Bondar Marina
  • Website
  • Number of slips/size of facility: 38 slips
  • Maximum length: 150 feet

NOTE: This is sponsored content produced in partnership with Destination Ontario