With oceans surrounding the province, Nova Scotia is a one of the best places to go boating in Canada. Propel into the ocean waters and keep your eye out for whales and dolphins, or float lazily on any of the provinces beautiful lakes or rivers. With all these options, it can be hard to choose where to go boating in Nova Scotia. We’re here to make your decision a little easier!
This picturesque gem got the name “Dollar Lake” from the story of a horse farm once located on the grounds of the water which was sold back to the province for the price of $1. Rent a boat or bring your own to Dollar Lake’s cool, refreshing waters. Strap into your water-skis and enjoy cruising down the lake, or opt for a more relaxing time on the water and cast your fishing lines. On one end of Dollar Lake lies a white sandy beach where you can take younger children for a swim, or you can reserve a campsite and check out the camper’s beach in the Dollar Lake Provincial Park. On your way to the lake, stop into Sweet Spot Chocolate Shop for some sweet treats to enjoy while watching the sunset.
Take a cruise down the historic Northumberland Strait and marvel at Nova Scotia’s beauty. While motoring around the waters, keep your eyes out for fossils embedded in the sedimentary rock. You can also make your way to Arisaig Provincial Park to hike along their trails while watching out for fossils and other wildlife that flourishes in the area such as Harlequin Ducks. Grab your crew lunch at the Amherst Shore Country Inn who boast a great view from their dining room and only use the freshest local ingredients to craft their dishes.
Opening directly into the Atlantic Ocean, St. Margaret’s Bay is a boater’s paradise. With open waters and multiple sandy beaches, this area is a true hotspot in the summer months. Recently, residents have enjoyed watching dolphins frolic off the coast, with other marine life such as Minke Whales being a common sight as well. Before you spend a long day on the water, head into the Bike & Bean Cafe for a cup o’ joe and a light lunch, or pop in on a Friday night to indulge in pizza night!
In the heart of the city of Sydney lies the Sydney River. Before getting out on the water to enjoy the beautiful coastal town, check out the Cape Breton’s Farmers Market to grab the freshest ingredients for your picnic lunch. If you don’t feel like making your meals on this boat trip, check out the Govenor’s Pub and Eatery for a great view and the best seafood around. Head North along the river past the Canadian Coast Guard College and sail into open ocean for great fishing and stunning nautical sunsets.
What are you waiting for? Nova Scotia has hundreds of waterways for you to choose from giving you endless possibilities for boating adventures. If you want to hit up one of these lakes, or find your own top spot to anchor and eat you’ll need your Pleasure Craft Operator Card. Take the Transport Canada approved boating safety course and explore Nova Scotia’s waterways today.