Sailing the Thousand Islands: A Summer Long Weekend Itinerary

Discover the granite shores and sparkling waters of the St. Lawrence River with this curated three-day Thousand Islands itinerary. Experience the best of Ontario's island life.

Between the limestone cliffs and the deep blue expanse of the St. Lawrence River lies an archipelago of 1,864 islands waiting to be explored. Forget the crowded city docks; this is your gateway to a serene Canadian summer escape where the current dictates your pace and the sunset is always the main event.

Getting There and Settling In

Most travelers arrive via Ottawa (YOW) or Toronto (YYZ), both roughly a 2.5 to 3-hour drive to the heart of the region in Gananoque. 🚗 Compare rental cars for your Ontario trip. If you are looking for a base of operations, the town of Gananoque serves as the perfect launchpad for both land and water adventures.

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Day 1: The Gateway to the Archipelago

Start your trip by getting acquainted with the scale of the islands. Head to the Gananoque waterfront and book a classic boat cruise to navigate the narrow channels of the Admiralty and Navy Islands. These tours provide the context of the region’s history, including the Gilded Age mansions that dot the shoreline.

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After your cruise, enjoy a casual dinner at a local pub. For a mid-range budget, expect to spend about $45 CAD per person for a satisfying meal and a glass of regional wine. Spend your evening walking the town’s waterfront park to soak in the river breeze before heading to your accommodation.

Day 2: Boldt Castle and Island Exploration

Today is for crossing the border, figuratively and literally. Take a shuttle boat from Rockport or Ivy Lea to Heart Island to tour the famous Boldt Castle. This tragic, romantic monument is a must-see. The admission fee is approximately $15 USD (approx. $20 CAD), plus your boat shuttle which typically runs around $30 CAD per person.

Spend your afternoon kayaking the quieter, non-motorized channels around Wellesley Island State Park. If you didn't bring your own gear, there are several reputable rental shops near Ivy Lea offering daily kayak rentals starting at $60 CAD.

Day 3: Hiking and Heritage

Before heading home, drive 15 minutes east to the Thousand Islands National Park at Mallorytown Landing. This area is perfect for a morning hike along the Jones Creek trails, offering sweeping elevated views of the river. Admission to the park is covered by your Parks Canada Discovery Pass or a daily site fee of approximately $8.50 CAD.

Grab a quick lunch at a roadside stand—be sure to try the fresh local corn if it is in season—before hitting the road. As you drive back toward the 401, stop at the Thousand Islands Tower for one final panoramic view of the region from 400 feet up.