Need more information about boating in Nova Scotia? Click here.
Want to learn more about Nova Scotia parks, reserve your camping sites, and other recreational info? Click here.
Other Useful Resources for Nova Scotia Boaters
Transport Canada is your authority on Boating in Canada. Check out this link if you have any questions or concerns about marine safety. Learn about Marine Safety
Discover Boating know how to have fun on the water! Find out more about the boating lifestyle that we in Nova Scotia fall in love with every day! Visit DiscoverBoating.ca
Having trouble thinking up a boating activity for the day? NovaScotia.com has lots of suggestions for locations and outdoor activities for some travel inspiration.
Recreational fishing in Nova Scotia is among the best in Canada. Check out this guide to the best areas in the province.
Try your hand at sailing with beginner’s courses or participate in world-class sailing events at Sail Nova Scotia.
Get out on the water at some of these top Nova Scotia boating locations….
Dollar Lake: Dip your toes into some of Nova Scotia’s calmest waters. This lake features numerous sandy beaches to hang out at and beautiful campsites at the Dollar Lake Provincial Park. Strap into your skis and hold on tight – waterskiing is also popular in this area so prepare accordingly!
Northumberland Strait: Go for a cruise down this massive waterway and make sure you keep your eyes open for fossils! Unique to this area, boaters can catch glimpses of fossils embedded among sedimentary rock, so take lots of pictures. Check out the Arisaig Provincial Park along the shores for great hiking trails and amenities.
St. Margaret’s Bay: Hoping to see whales or dolphins on your trip to Nova Scotia? You’re in luck if you’re travelling to St. Margaret’s Bay, where residents see dolphins and whales regularly. Boaters can also enjoy cruising along the coast while taking in the province’s natural beauty.
Sydney River: Enjoy some time on the town then hop on the water. This river runs straight through the city of Sydney giving boaters the opportunity to enjoy the beautiful sights of a maritime fishing town. Marvel at the brightly coloured coastal homes while casting your lines for some bass or chain pickerel.
Bras d’Or Lake: Explore Nova Scotia’s inland sea by boat this summer. With many protected coves and inlets, the wave action here is small, making sailing a great choice. The low wave action makes it easier for beginners to get a hold of water skiing and wakeboarding. If you’re feeling competitive, enter the Race the Cape boat race and test your skills!
Lake Banook: Take any hockey fan here for a real treat! Claiming to be the birthplace of hockey, this lake offers recreational boating activities as well as some distinct sprint canoe/kayak clubs. Motor around the lake admiring Nova Scotia’s scenery or try out paddling with one of the clubs.
Lake Ainslie: Enjoy the weather at Lake Ainslie at the Trout Brook Provincial Park where you can catch all the beautiful sunsets. The fishing in this area is peaceful and enjoyable with many smallmouth bass and trout and it makes for the perfect spot to fish for an afternoon.