Turn a weekend into a small voyage: two days of kayak, canoe, or motorboat rental on the St. Marys River from Sault Ste. Marie. Perfect for paddlers who want independence, easy access to freighter-watching, and island-dotted backwaters to explore at a relaxed pace.
Turn a weekend into a small voyage: two days of kayak, canoe, or motorboat rental on the St. Marys River from Sault Ste. Marie. Perfect for paddlers who want independence, easy access to freighter-watching, and island-dotted backwaters to explore at a relaxed pace.
Book with Thrive Tours
Verified experiences and guided adventures in the surrounding area.
Operated by Thrive Tours · Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario
moderate.
2 Days.
Moderate fitness: able to paddle or manage a small boat for several hours with breaks; good balance for getting in and out of craft.
No formal experience required, but basic paddling and boat handling skills are helpful; operators provide a short orientation before launch.
Launch typically occurs from the Sault Ste. Marie riverfront or a nearby public boat ramp; exact meeting details are provided at booking.
Yes—lifejackets and basic safety gear are generally included with rentals and must be worn while on the water.
Routes into larger open water depend on craft type and weather; check with the rental team and avoid exposed lake crossings in windy conditions.
Operators monitor conditions; they may advise early returns or cancel/reschedule if winds and waves create unsafe conditions.
Booking and cancellation policies are set by the vendor; use the provided referral link to view availability, terms, and to reserve your dates.
Sault Ste. Marie is one of North America’s oldest inland settlements and the river has long been a route for Indigenous peoples and later industrial shipping; the Soo Locks shaped regional commerce.
Watch for invasive species like zebra mussels—clean gear between water bodies, pack out waste, and respect posted wildlife protections.
Thrive Tours operates guided outdoor trips and adventures with an emphasis on safety, stewardship, and memorable experiences.
Book with Thrive Tours