Custom Tours

Lockmaster for a Day

Come experience the life of the lockmaster that has been operating the locks continuously since 1832. Guests spend the day with a retired Parks Canada lockmaster who has years of real work experience on the Rideau Canal. They share their in-depth knowledge and stories some of which have been passed down from generation to generation. The on-site lunch is a gourmet “Flavours of the Rideau” picnic sourced from local producers.

COST: $80 per person
TIME: 10am – 2pm

Program includes:

  • Personally guided site tour of the lockstation by a retired Lockmaster
  • In-depth explanation of lock structures, water management, gate fabrication
  • Hands-on experience of opening sluice gates and lock gates
  • Gourmet picnic lunch
  • Souvenir lockmaster hat
  • Official completion certificate
Wilderness Shuttle

In partnership with Ahoy Rentals, we offer a pick up and drop off service to most Rideau lockstations from Kingston to Ottawa. You can rent kayaks and canoes that are ideal for paddling this route, but if you have your own boats, you can still take advantage of our shuttle service.
There is parking available for your vehicle while you are away. You can start at Ahoy Rentals in Kingston and get picked up in Ottawa or you can get dropped off in Ottawa and paddle towards Kingston. This latter option is less popular as you will be paddling into the prevailing wind from the south and west. If you would like to paddle only a section of the route, we can drop you off at one of the many lockstations.
This waterway is an amazing boating destination. Having 45 locks at 27 lockstations, the canal is a chain of beautiful lakes running 202 km from Lake Ontario in Kingston to the Ottawa River in Ottawa.
The Rideau Heritage Route has compiled information on a suggested itinerary for anyone wishing to paddle the Rideau Canal Waterway by canoe or kayak. You will also find a list of accommodations along the Rideau Canal where you can stay at your choice of B&B’s and inns. For the more adventurous paddlers, camping at any lockstation is permitted for a small fee.
http://www.ahoyrentals.com/index.cfm/shuttle-service/