Pickering to Winona by boat

Pilotage Plan: Pickering, Ontario to Winona, Ontario

Departure: Pickering, Ontario
Your adventure begins at the picturesque waterfront of Pickering, where you've got a vibrant community and beautiful lake views to set the mood. As you prepare to depart, ensure that your vessel is in proper working order. Check your safety equipment, including life jackets, fire extinguishers, and your first aid kit, since safety is the priority on this journey.

Route Overview
Your trip to Winona will take you across the Bay of Quinte and Lake Ontario, providing a mix of calm waters and some potentially choppy areas near the shoreline. The route offers a combination of scenic vistas, lovely bays, and charming towns, making it suitable primarily for experienced boaters familiar with navigating in open waters. Yet, the journey is rewarding, with opportunities for some delightful stops.

Important Navigation Considerations

1. Navigational Aids: As you set out, keep an eye on various navigational aids along Lake Ontario. Specifically, look for buoys, lighthouses, and markers that indicate safe passages and hazardous areas. Key points include the pick up of the Toronto Harbour Channelleading you out of Pickering and the East Point Lightas you navigate westward.
2. Weather Conditions: Always check local forecasts before heading out. Weather patterns can change quickly, particularly on open water. Be prepared for shifting winds and the possibility of sudden storms, especially as you move closer to the more exposed areas.
3. Local Regulations: Familiarize yourself with local boating regulations specific to the waterways you will navigate. This includes speed limits, no-wake zones, and areas of restricted access—especially near wildlife reserves and marinas.

Notable Points of Interest
Frenchman’s Bay: A fabulous first stop if you need a brief respite or shelter. This bay is nestled within the Pickering area and offers calm waters—a perfect retreat if the weather begins to get rough.

Toronto Islands: After navigating past Toronto’s bustling shoreline, the Toronto Islands present a lovely opportunity to take a break. These islands offer several sandy beaches, walking trails, and picturesque spots perfect for lunch.

Hamilton Harbour: The approach to Hamilton Harbour is striking, with a vibrant city skyline nestled against the backdrop of the lush Niagara Escarpment. This harbour is another excellent spot if weather conditions necessitate an unscheduled stop. There are numerous facilities available here.

Sheltering Options
In case of inclement weather, your safe havens along the route include:
Frenchman’s Bay: Ideal for a quick stop if needed.
Marinas in Toronto: There are several options for transient slips if a longer stay is warranted.
Cootes Paradise(near Hamilton): A tranquil bay that is tucked away and offers excellent shelter from storms.

The Route Forward to Winona
After enjoying your time in Hamilton, proceed towards Winona—be mindful of the shipping lanes, as they can be busy with larger vessels. Use GPS and your maps to remain vigilant about your course.

Final Destination: Winona, Ontario
Upon arriving in Winona, you'll be treated to the calmness of this smaller community, where natural beauty meets historical charm. There are numerous local attractions that make it worth your while, but ensure that once more—check weather forecasts and local reports before you settle in.

Recommended Apps
To ease your navigation and ensure safety, consider using:
Savvy Navvy: This app provides detailed charts and some excellent navigation features customized for your route.
Navionics: Offers constantly updated charts and sonar data.
Windy: Great for real-time weather updates, particularly vital for your day out on the open water.

This trip from Pickering to Winona is designed for experienced boaters who appreciate the delicate balance of safety, warmth, and scenic beauty. With the right preparation and respect for the water, you're in for an unforgettable experience on the waters of Lake Ontario. Enjoy your journey!