Boating

Come ashore!

Colchester Harbour is the first stop for boaters east of the Detroit River and the first Blue Flag Marina on Lake Erie.

When you see a Blue Flag flying, you know the marina is clean, managed sustainably, meets safety and accessibility requirements, and promotes environmentally friendly practices to boaters.

The harbour is open from May 1st until Thanksgiving weekend and offers charter, monthly and seasonal dockage for water craft up to 45 feet in length.

Latitude: 41° 58.941
Longitude: 082° 55.913

Find out more about harbour amenities and fees on the Town of Essex Beach and Harbour page.

What do you need to know about boating in Canada?

A Pleasure Craft Operator Card is required to operate power-driven boats and watercraft in Canada.

Every person who operates a motorized boat in Canada must obtain proof of competency. You can obtain a Pleasure Craft Operator Card by passing a Transport Canada accredited boating safety test. Getting your Operator Card proves that you are a competent boater and ensures that you understand Canada's navigation rules and how to boat safely.

Boaters can obtain their official Pleasure Craft Operator Card, commonly known as a boat licence or boat card, by successfully passing the BOATsmart! exam.