The Niagara River connects Lake Erie to Lake Ontario along the Canada-US border. It's one of Ontario's most unique boating environments — and one of its most dangerous. Know the zones, know the current, launch safely.
The Niagara Parks Commission prohibits watercraft within 800 metres of the brink of Niagara Falls on the Canadian side. The current above the falls in the Chippawa channel exceeds 30 km/h. If your motor fails in this section, there is no recovery. Boating is restricted above the City of Niagara Falls boundary. Always launch below the escarpment (Queenston or lower) or well above in Lake Erie's Grand Island area.
Public access points on the Ontario side of the Niagara River, from Lake Erie south to Lake Ontario north.
Federal and provincial rules that apply on the Niagara River.
No watercraft of any kind within 800 metres of the Canadian Horseshoe Falls on the Ontario side. This is enforced by the Niagara Parks Police and Canadian Coast Guard.
The Canada-US border runs through the centre of the Niagara River. Crossing into US waters requires valid customs clearance (NEXUS or CBSA). Recreational boating near the border is monitored by Canadian Border Services Agency.
Approved PFD or lifejacket must be on board for every person. In the fast-current sections of the Niagara River, it is strongly recommended that all occupants wear their PFDs at all times underway.
Your Pleasure Craft Licence number must appear on both sides of the bow in block letters, minimum 75 mm (3 inches) tall, contrasting colour. Coast Guard and Niagara Parks Police patrol the river regularly.
Coast Guard and Niagara Parks Police patrol the Niagara River from Fort Erie to Lake Ontario. Your PCL number must be displayed correctly on both sides of the bow in minimum 3-inch block letters. Pre-cut vinyl decals from Compliance Lettering ship same-day from the Niagara Region — you can have them before your next launch.