Trailer & trailer length
Match ramp lane width and dock depth to your trailer setup. Narrow single-lane ramps get crowded at the weekends; double-lane or tugboat ramps handle larger loads.
Ontario launch-day planner
Find a boat launch near you in Ontario
Search public boat ramps across every lake and waterway by city or region. Confirm fees, access, trailer requirements and local restrictions before you tow.
Or skip ahead — use the near-me finder with your locationBrowse launches by region
How to choose the right launch for your boat
Fees & access rules
Some Ontario launches are free, some charge an hourly fee, and seasonal permit zones exist for municipal parks. Always confirm before you tow — fees change every year.
Water level & readiness
Check live wave height, wind and water temperature with the Operator HUD. Conditions that looked fine on Saturday morning can shift within two hours of a front passage.
Popular launch sites to start from
Launch-day essentials
Your boat number plates, waterproof cards and name decals — ready before you arrive at the launch
Ontario rules require a valid registration number on each hull. If yours are worn, faded or missing, grab compliant plates before you tow — and set up your name decal while it lasts.
Frequently asked about Ontario launches
What counts as a public boat launch in Ontario?
A public ramp — accessible to all boaters without private dock access, usually at a municipal park, parkland or marina. They may be free, charge a fee, or require a permit depending on the municipality.
Do I need a licence to use an Ontario launch?
You do not need an additional licence simply to use a public ramp. You do need a valid pleasure-craft licence for your boat in most sizes and motor types — see the boating-compliance section on this site.
How far should I leave my trailer before launching?
Most lanes require trailers to be staged upstream of their lane; some ramps prohibit full launch from certain lanes. Always check per-ramp rules, which are listed in each ramp detail page.