Are you looking for a fun day trip with the whole family that combines learning and physical activity? Then plan a trip to Peterborough!
Photo Credit: Canadian Canoe Museum
Hear the stories about the struggles of the Voyageurs who had to portage the canoe and the heavy goods through rugged terrain as you paddle in comfort through the Otonabee River and the historic Trent Severn Waterway that began construction in 1833 and finished in 1920 at Port Severn.
The Canadian Canoe Museum offers an interactive 90-minute Voyageur Canoe Tour, suitable for all ages and skill levels, allowing participants to immerse themselves in the region’s rich history and the daily lives of the Voyageurs.
These tours operate daily at 10:30 AM and 2:30 PM from the Victoria Day weekend to the Thanksgiving weekend. As part of the adventure, guests will paddle alongside a knowledgeable guide who shares fascinating stories about Peterborough’s history and the engineering marvels of the Trent-Severn Canal.
Before you begin, all participants are equipped with a paddle, a Personal Flotation Device (PFD) complete with a whistle, and a bailer kit for safety. The museum offers two sizes of canoes—a 36-foot Montreal Canoe that accommodates up to 20 people and a 26-foot North Canoe for up to 10 guests. The size of the canoe used depends on the group’s size, ensuring a comfortable and safe paddling experience.
However, there are a few restrictions to note:
The tours are not suitable for visitors under 30 pounds, those who use wheelchairs or other mobility devices, or anyone unwilling to wear a PFD and follow safety guidelines.
Participants are expected to paddle as part of the team effort, though not at a competitive pace.
For a smooth experience, it is advisable to arrive 15 minutes before your tour time to check in and get your equipment at the Canoe House. After the tour, staff will assist you in returning your gear and disembarking safely.
Tour bookings should ideally be made in advance to ensure availability. In case of inclement weather, tours run unless conditions are deemed unsafe by the guides, such as during electrical storms or high winds. If a tour is cancelled, participants can reschedule or receive a full refund.
Embarking on a Voyageur Canoe Tour offers a unique opportunity to connect with Canada’s canoeing heritage and enjoy a day of learning and outdoor fun at the Canadian Canoe Museum.
When: Voyageur Canoe Tours are available every day at 10:30 AM and 2:30 PM, from Victoria Day weekend to Thanksgiving weekend. Tours are approximately 90 minutes.
Peterborough 
