Oshawa to Scarborough by boat

Pilotage Plan: Oshawa, Ontario, Canada to Scarborough, Ontario, US

Route Overview:
Embarking on a journey from Oshawa to Scarborough presents an exciting opportunity for an experienced boater to explore the beautiful coastline of Lake Ontario. This route is suitable for skilled boaters due to its diverse navigational challenges and must-see points of interest, balanced with the necessary safety precautions required for a seamless adventure.

Starting Point: Oshawa, Ontario, Canada

1. Departure Considerations:
   Weather Monitoring:Before departure, ensure that you check the marine weather forecast. It's crucial to be aware of wind speeds and wave conditions on Lake Ontario.
   Vessel Safety Checks:Conduct thorough safety checks on your vessel, including life jackets, fire extinguisher, first aid kit, and communication devices.
2. Navigational Aids:

• As you leave Oshawa, the waters are marked with various buoys and navigational aids to guide you. Pay close attention to channel markers as well as the Oshawa Harbour mouth.
• Route to Scarborough

1. Departure from Oshawa:

Coordinates to Enter:Begin navigating towards the west from your starting point at Oshawa (long/lat: -78.8256166667, 43.86785).

Hazards to Watch:Be aware of localized boat traffic, especially around the harbor, and monitor for fishing boats and recreational watercraft.

2. Heading West Towards Whitby:

• As you depart Oshawa, you will enter a section with relatively calm waters. The distance to Whitby is short, approximately 5 nautical miles. Look out for the Whitby Marina, a great spot to consider for a brief stop if desired.
• Planning Options:If the weather turns, Whitby provides good shelter with facilities you may need.

Navigational Aids:Approaching Whitby, monitor the “Whiby Entrance Light” (Fl G 5s) which offers a guiding point into the harbor.

3. Navigating Towards Pickering:

• After Whitby, continue your journey towards Pickering, approximately 8 nautical miles further west. Pickering’s waterfront has many attractions worth a visit, including the scenic waterfront parks and accessible marinas.
• Shelter Opportunities:The Pickering Marina is another secure spot to take shelter or rest if needed.

3. Final Leg to Scarborough:

• As you navigate from Pickering towards Scarborough, you'll have about 10 nautical miles remaining. The waters between these points can be subject to sudden weather changes, so maintain vigilance.

Key Landmarks:On your route, be sure to take note of the stunning views of Rouge National Urban Park, which lies to your south, showcasing a unique blend of natural landscapes right on the lake's edge.

Navigational Considerations:Approaching the Scarborough shoreline, pay attention to the “Scarborough Bluffs” which stand out significantly and are well-marked. These cliffs are an iconic feature of the area.

Entrance Considerations:As you get close to Scarborough, navigate towards “Scarborough Bluffs Marina” (Fl G 3s), noting local restrictions and traffic rules, particularly if you arrive during peak recreational boating hours.

Local Regulations & Safety

• Keep in mind that throughout your trip, it's essential to always adhere to local navigation regulations and speed limits within harbors.
• Maintain a proper lookout for other vessels, especially around marinas and popular fishing spots.

Points of Interest & Activities:

Whitby:Explore local restaurants and waterfront parks if you stop.
Pickering:Engage in water sports or simply enjoy a picnic by the water.
Scarborough:Upon arrival, enjoy a beach day at Scarborough Bluffs or visit nearby parks for hiking and scenic views.

Conclusion

This route from Oshawa to Scarborough offers a blend of secure moments, engaging sights, and opportunities for adventure, making it ideal for the experienced boater. Remember to utilize navigation tools, such as chart plotters, and consider installing savvy navvy on your devices for real-time weather, tide, and navigational information. Safety is paramount, alongside the enjoyment of your boat trip. Safe travels on your nautical adventure!