Boucherville to Montreal by boat

Pilotage Plan: Boucherville, Québec to Montreal, QC

Overview
This route from Boucherville to Montreal is not only visually stunning but also rich in interesting landmarks, making it a delightful journey for both experienced and novice boaters. While safety is our priority, the sights and potential stops will ensure that this trip is both enjoyable and memorable.

Route Description
Starting from Boucherville, you will navigate through the St. Lawrence River, which is well-marked and generally safe for leisure boating. The journey spans approximately 15 nautical miles and can be completed in a few hours, depending on your speed and the number of stops you wish to make.

1. Starting Point: Boucherville

• Launch from one of the local marinas. Here, you can gather supplies, check your vessel, and indulge in a quick stroll to enjoy the scenic riverside parks.

1. Navigation to Île Charron

• Depart Boucherville and head southwest toward Île Charron, which offers a great spot for a potential first break. The small island provides natural beauty and shelter in case of sudden weather changes. It’s a quaint place for picnics or a short exploration. Be mindful of local boat traffic as you approach.

1. Navigating the Rivière Saint-Pierre

• As you continue, watch for the buoy markers that assist in keeping a safe path. The channel narrows at points; maintaining a vigilant eye on your chart plotter is essential, especially as deeper vessels may navigate these waters.

1. Approaching Longueuil

• Keep an eye out for the Jacques Cartier Bridge as you get closer to Longueuil. It is a beautiful landmark that signifies you are nearing the hustle and bustle of Montreal. Here you may encounter more commercial vessel traffic; it is crucial to stay clear of any large boats making their way through.

1. En Route to Montreal

• The next leg toward Montreal will have you skimming along the southern shore. Make sure to take note of any local fishing regulations, as certain areas may have restrictions to protect local wildlife.
• If time permits, a stop at Parc Jean-Drapeau on Île Notre-Dame can add an extra layer of enjoyment to your trip, featuring beaches and walking paths.

Points of Interest:
Parc Jean-Drapeau: Offers a great opportunity to explore the local scenery or take a small break with amenities available.
Basilique Notre-Dame: Though it’s a little farther from the river, you can admire this magnificent structure as you cruise.

Shelter Considerations
In case the weather turns unfavorable—either winds picking up or rain—consider the following shelters:
Île Charron: Sheltering spots abound under the trees if you anchor down close.
Longueuil Marina: This well-equipped marina provides excellent facilities and safe harbor against incoming bad weather.

Navigational Aids & Regulations

• Keep a watchful eye on the navigational buoys; they provide critical information on safe navigation routes.
• Make sure to familiarize yourself with local navigation maps available via the Canadian Hydrographic Service.
• For your safety and adherence to local laws, you should not exceed the posted speed limits throughout populated areas, particularly near marinas and parks.

Recommended Apps
Before you set sail, downloading the following apps will enhance your experience and ensure you are well-informed on your journey:
Savvy Navvy: A powerful and intuitive app for navigation charts and route planning.
Navionics: For detailed marine charts and community updates.
MarineTraffic: To keep track of larger vessel movements.

Conclusion
This pilotage from Boucherville to Montreal is perfect for leisurely boaters who wish to soak in the natural beauty and vibrant culture along the St. Lawrence. Remember that adhering to safety guidelines and local regulations not only ensures your safety but also enhances your experience. Enjoy the sights, and safe travels on this picturesque waterway!