Canoeing and kayaking

Point Pelee National Park

Enjoy your paddle in this peaceful and internationally recognized wetland where life abounds above and below the water line!

Where to Paddle

Explore the marsh by canoe or kayak. The RAMSAR wetland of international significance occupies two-thirds of Point Pelee National Park. Venture through the channel to Lake Pond, explore the smaller, lesser known areas of the marsh such as West Cranberry Pond, East Cranberry Pond, or Redhead Pond. Keep your eyes open for basking turtles and frogs and playful carp as you explore this aquatic wonderland.

Freighter Canoe Tour

Freighter canoe tour in Point Pelee marsh
Freighter canoe tour

Join us and cruise among the cattails with an interpreter in our ten-person canoe. 'Meet' the marsh's carnivorous plant and take a glimpse at life below the water, as you discover a side of Point Pelee few have experienced.

  • Schedule (weather permitting) 
    • Daily in July and August at 11:30 a.m., 1:30 p.m., and 3:30 p.m.
  • Reservations
    • Call 519-322-2365 ext. 0 to reserve your spot. Please note you will require a credit card to book over the phone.
    • Walk-ups are available if space allows.
  • Cost
  • Life vests and paddles provided.

Canoe and Kayak Rentals 

Canoe and Kayak rentals are available from Pelee Wings. 

They are open daily (weather permitting). Rentals are available on a first come, first served basis. There are plenty of boats available! 

Rules and Regulations

  • Share the water.
  • Traffic through the channel flows in each direction, be courteous to oncoming traffic by leaving enough room for fellow paddlers to pass. 
  • Do not crush or collect vegetation in the marsh.
  • Do not climb on cattail pads as it is not solid ground.
  • When accessing East Beach, please be sure to mount the canoe onto the beach to prevent it from floating away.

Safety

Lifejacket

Wear your lifejacket at all times. Boats are required to have one lifejacket per person, 15 m (40 ft) of buoyant heaving line, spare paddles or oars, an anchor on 15 m (40 ft) of line, a bailer, and a whistle.

 

Weather conditions

Weather conditions change rapidly. Although it may be calm here, winds are stronger beyond the windsock. Check forecasts which are posted on the weather board.

 

Map

The marsh is 800 times bigger than a football field. The windsock marks the return channel. Maps are available at the Cattail Café Rental Shop.

 

Whistle

If you capsize: remain with your overturned boat and move shoreward. Sound three long blasts to attract attention if you need assistance.

 

Resources

Related links

Date modified :