Toronto: Sailing Yacht Cruise of Toronto Harbor and Islands

Imagine gliding smoothly across Lake Ontario, feeling the breeze in your hair as Toronto’s skyline slowly drifts past you. For those seeking a unique way to see this vibrant city, a sailing yacht cruise offers an intimate, relaxing, and scenic experience. Prices start at $136 per person, and the tour runs from 2 to 3 hours, depending on whether you choose the day or sunset sail. These cruises are hosted aboard a luxury 41-foot yacht with a friendly captain and crew who are eager to share their love of sailing and Toronto’s waterways.

What makes this experience especially appealing are the stunning views of Toronto’s skyline from the calm waters and the chance to explore the Toronto Islands in a leisurely way. Plus, if you’re curious about sailing, the crew offers lessons or the opportunity for you to take the helm—an experience that many travelers find memorable. On the downside, this tour doesn’t include hotel pickup or food, so you’ll want to plan accordingly. If you’re someone who appreciates beautiful scenery, a touch of adventure, and a chance to learn about sailing, this cruise is a fantastic fit.

Key Points

• Scenic views of Toronto’s skyline from the lake provide a fresh perspective of the city.
• Flexible options include day and sunset sails, with the choice for private or shared cruises.
• Relaxed and intimate atmosphere with a luxury yacht, captain, and crew ensuring comfort and safety.
• Opportunity to learn sailing basics and even take the helm for a hands-on experience.
• Includes water and onboard facilities, with no outside food or drinks allowed.
• Rain or shine operation, so be prepared for weather conditions.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Closer Look at the Toronto Sailing Yacht Cruise Experience

We found that this tour is much more than just a boat ride; it’s a chance to see Toronto from a different angle—a view you won’t get from the city streets or even from land-based viewpoints. Whether you’re visiting for a weekend or a longer stay, this cruise injects some serenity and fun into your trip.

Meeting Point and Logistics

The meeting point is straightforward—just head to Gone Sailing Adventures, where you’ll find a distinctive green tent marking the start of your adventure. The tour generally begins in the morning, afternoon, or evening, offering flexibility to fit your schedule. The cruise lasts 2 to 3 hours, making it an ideal addition to a busy day or a relaxing evening activity.

What to Expect on the Water

Once aboard the luxury yacht, you’ll immediately notice the comfortable seating in both open-air and covered areas—perfect for enjoying the view regardless of the weather. The boat is suitable for barefoot cruising, which adds to the sense of relaxation.

The crew is friendly, knowledgeable, and eager to share their sailing expertise. They often take the opportunity to teach guests some sailing basics, making this experience accessible even if you’ve never been on a boat before. For those who prefer to sit back, the crew handles all the sailing, allowing you to soak in the panoramic views of Toronto’s skyline and the natural beauty of the Toronto Islands and Tommy Thompson Park.

Highlights of the Cruises

• Day Sail (2 or 3 hours): Glide around the Toronto Islands, marvel at the cityscape, and enjoy the calm water views.
• Sunset Sail (2 hours): Experience Toronto’s skyline illuminated as the sun sets—the perfect romantic or tranquil moment.
• Sailing Education: Captain JC, Howie, and crew members are praised for their knowledge and friendliness, often sharing sailing tips or allowing guests to take the helm.
• Anchoring and Swimming: On longer trips, the captain may drop the anchor so guests can take a refreshing swim in Lake Ontario—a rare chance to cool off in the lake’s cool waters.

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Authentic Experiences and Reviews

Many travelers speak highly of the personal touch and professionalism of the crew. For example, Richard from the US calls it an “Exceptional Captain and Crew,” and Andreas from Canada notes that his experience with Captain JC was “perfect,” highlighting how the guides make a difference. One guest even mentions daring to take a dip in the lake despite the cool temperatures, adding an adventurous element to the cruise.

What’s Not Included and Practical Tips

While the cruise includes water, it does not come with food or additional drinks, which can be purchased onboard if desired. Remember, no outside food or drinks are allowed, and smoking is prohibited for safety and comfort.

Prepare for the weather—the temperature on the water can be about 5°C colder than on land. Pack sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, and a camera to capture the views. For children under 12, a personal flotation device (PFD) is required and available for rent at $19.

Who is This Tour For?

This sailing experience is perfect for adventurous travelers who enjoy scenic views and learning new skills, romantic couples seeking a peaceful sunset cruise, or families with older children looking for a memorable outing. It’s less suitable for children under 5, primarily because of safety considerations and the nature of the boat.

Why This Tour Offers Great Value

At $136 per person, the cruise provides a relaxing, scenic, and educational experience that’s hard to match in Toronto. The fact that you’re aboard a luxury yacht with a dedicated crew enhances the feeling of exclusivity and comfort. The opportunity to learn basic sailing skills or simply sit back and enjoy the views makes it versatile, whether you’re a sailing novice or a seasoned sailor.

Compared to land-based sightseeing, this water experience offers a peaceful environment where you can disconnect from the city’s hustle and truly soak in the natural beauty and skyline. Watching Toronto’s skyline light up at sunset, or catching the early morning light, adds a layer of magic that photos from land simply can’t capture.

The Sum Up

This sailing yacht cruise around Toronto’s harbor and islands delivers a balanced blend of scenic beauty, relaxation, and education. It’s ideal for travelers who appreciate a more intimate experience and want to see the city from the water—with the added bonus of possibly trying out sailing themselves. The crew’s expertise and friendly approach elevate the experience, making it suitable for both first-timers and seasoned boaters alike.

If you’re looking for a peaceful getaway that offers spectacular views and the chance to learn a new skill, this cruise might just be the highlight of your Toronto trip. It’s a memorable way to appreciate the city’s natural and urban landscape from a fresh perspective.

FAQs

Do I need previous sailing experience?
No, sailing lessons are available if you’re interested, but you can also just relax and let the crew handle the boat.

How long is the cruise?
The tour lasts between 2 and 3 hours, depending on whether you choose a day or sunset sail.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Children over 5 are generally fine, but those under 12 need a PFD, which is available for rent.

What should I bring?
Bring a hat, towel, camera, sunscreen, and comfortable clothing suitable for the weather.

Is there a restroom on the yacht?
Yes, the yacht is equipped with bathroom facilities.

Can I buy food or drinks on board?
No outside food or drinks are allowed, but you can purchase water and other beverages onboard.

What happens in bad weather?
The tour operates rain or shine, so dress accordingly. The yacht has covered and open-air seating to make your experience comfortable regardless of weather conditions.

This Toronto sailing adventure combines scenic views, a touch of thrill, and learning opportunities that make it a truly worthwhile addition to your visit. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion, seeking tranquility, or simply curious about sailing, this tour captures the essence of Toronto’s waters in a way that’s both authentic and enjoyable.

You can check availability for your dates here: