While it might seem like a simple thing to drop your boat into the water and paddle a short distance to the islands, we don’t recommend it unless you’ve considered all the challenges you might encounter on your way to and on the islands. It can be quite dangerous if you’re not adequately prepared.
Can you kayak to the Toronto Islands?
You can kayak to Toronto Island from Harbourfront Centre in downtown Toronto. Head to Centre Island, which is easy to see because it’s also the location of Toronto’s downtown airport, Billy Bishop. From there you can traverse the islands along their shores, or on foot if you’d like to explore the interior.
How long does it take to kayak the Toronto Islands?
The yellow line is a 2 hour suggested route, red is 3 hours, and blue is 4+ hours. Have fun enjoying the bird sanctuaries, relaxation, and health of paddling Toronto’s most picturesque areas.
Can you take your own boat to Toronto Island?
You must take a ferry to get to the Island. It is possible to take a private water taxi or a tender but the vast majority of people will use the ferry service operated by the City of Toronto. The Jack Layton Ferry Terminal (the ferry docks) is located between Bay Street and Yonge Street on Queens Quay.
How do I get to Toronto Island SUP?
GETTING HERE
Take the Toronto Island Ferry to Wards Island. This is a 10 minute ferry ride. The Jack Layton Ferry terminal is located at the foot of Bay Street at Queens Quay (9 Queens Quay, Toronto, ON). Buy your ticket online here.
Can you kayak the Apostle Islands without a tour?
Kayaking Without a Guide:
While kayaking free of a guide at the Apostle Islands is permitted (and enticing), it is only recommended for kayakers with some previous experience on the water.
Can you swim to Toronto Islands?
Swimming is not recommended. Take the ferry to get to Centre Island. No lifeguard supervision or beach maintenance until the summer 2023 season.
What is the 120 rule for kayaking?
A good rule of thumb to follow is the “120° rule.” This means you should wear a wetsuit or dry suit whenever the sum of the air temperature and water temperature is equal to or less than 120°F. Warm weather does not cancel out the danger of cold water, wearing lighter clothing on a warm day increases risk.
How many miles can you kayak in 2 hours?
Most kayakers average about two miles per hour when paddling for multiple hours. You can certainly achieve faster speeds over shorter distances, but two miles per hour (similar to the average walking speed) is a healthy and safe baseline for average kayak speed.
Do you need a license to kayak in Ontario?
Do you require a license to paddle a canoe or kayak? A Pleasure Craft Operator Card is not needed. If you are self-propelled you don’t need to pass any course or carry a plastic card. Just revel in your freedom, responsibly.
Can you drink alcohol on Toronto Island?
If you’re looking to go rogue on the Islands, just pack a picnic—but the first rule of Island picnics is don’t bring alcohol on your Island picnics – there are cops patrolling and you can get a hefty ticket.
How long is the boat ride to Toronto Island?
around 15 minutes
Ferry Schedule
The average wait time between ferries ranges between half an hour and an hour. Sailing toward the island, you’ll get a great view of Toronto’s full skyline. The average trip time takes around 15 minutes one direction, giving you ample time to enjoy the majestic view of the lake.
Is Toronto Island ferry free?
Toronto Ferry Fares & Buying Tickets
$8.19 for Adults. $5.37 for Youth (15-19) and Seniors (over 65) $3.94 for Juniors (under 14) Children under 2 ride free.
Can you paddle board to Channel islands?
Channel Islands Harbor
With calm waters, easy access to the beach and visible sea life, it’s a great spot to take the family paddle boarding.
Can you bring your own SUP to lake Louise?
While you can bring your own paddle board to Lake Louise, Moraine Lake or any of the other spots mentioned, don’t expect to use private boat launches to get in the water. Thankfully, stand up paddle boards are easy to start right from the shore.
How much does it cost to go to Toronto Islands?
Tram Tours
| Type of Ticket | Cost* |
|---|---|
| Senior | $7.25 |
| Student | $7.25 |
| Child (ages two to 12) | $5.50 |
| Child (ages two and under) | Free |
Can you kayak Apostle Islands by yourself?
While most guide companies in the area only provide tours, there are a few that do offer kayak rentals and packages (including wet or drysuits, spray skirts, etc.) if you’d prefer to do some self-guided Apostle Islands kayaking.
Is it safe to kayak Apostle Islands?
Because of Lake Superior’s power and unpredictability, the National Park Service does NOT recommend the use of small open boats, canoes, open cockpit or sit-upon kayaks, and paddleboards for travel between islands or to the sea caves.
Can I bring my own kayak to Apostle Islands?
On Your Own:
You can take your own boat out onto Lake Superior, or paddle a 16ft. sea kayak to one of the islands. Kayaking to the islands – Take your own sea kayak or take a guided trip with an outfitter.
Are the Toronto Islands worth it?
The islands offer a city escape with an unbeatable skyline view and relaxing beaches. Oh, and did I mention there’s also a hidden amusement park on Centre Island!? The Toronto Island is such a unique thing to do from the city that it’s a must do while visiting.
Can you sleep on Toronto Island?
Can I camp overnight on the Toronto Islands? Officially, no. Unofficially, many people do. Some schools and youth organizations can get special permission to camp on Snake Island.