When people think of Windsor, Ontario, they often picture border traffic, duty-free shops, and the Ambassador Bridge to Detroit. What they don’t think about—at least not often enough—is Windsor’s excellent boating potential. Tucked along the Detroit River and directly connected to Lake St. Clair, Windsor offers a surprisingly vibrant waterfront with marinas that are not only well-equipped, but also steps away from some of the most walkable, culturally rich neighborhoods in the region.
Too often, transient boaters cruise right past Windsor on their way to the bigger ports on Lake Erie or Lake Huron. But if you’re looking for a destination with full-service slips, low overnight fees, and a front-row seat to urban parks, bike paths, restaurants, and even casinos—you’ll want to make Windsor a stopover on your summer route. Below, we’ve mapped out the best marinas in the Windsor area, what they offer, what they cost, and why they’re worth docking overnight.
Lakeview Park Marina
Location: 9200 Riverside Dr E, Windsor
Transient Rate: $2.50/ft/night
Amenities:
- Floating docks with 30A and 50A hydro
- Water hookups
- Fuel dock (premium, ethanol-free gas & diesel)
- Pump-out station
- Laundry and washrooms with showers
- Trailer launch ramps
- Ample parking
- Customs phone reporting kiosk
Highlights:
- Close to Windsor Yacht Club and Riverside Harbour
- 10-minute drive or easy bike ride to downtown Windsor
- Bookable in advance (recommended during peak season)
- Launch point for Peche Island Tours
Lakeview Park Marina is one of the best-kept municipal marinas on the Great Lakes. You get a front-row view of the Detroit skyline and immediate access to walking trails along the riverfront. Whether you’re looking to refuel, refresh, or enjoy a summer concert in the park, this spot is perfect for overnight and weekend stays.
Windsor Yacht Club Harbours (East & West)
Location: 9000 Riverside Dr E, Windsor
Transient Rate: $2.00/ft/night (for reciprocals)
Amenities:
- Dock master service
- 24-hour showers and restrooms
- Clubhouse with dining room and lounge
- Bar and swimming pool access (for reciprocals)
- Hydro and water hookups
- Easy walk to groceries and restaurants
Highlights:
- Yacht club atmosphere with friendly staff
- Club access for members of reciprocating clubs
- Waterfront bike paths start nearby
- Excellent dining and lounge options right on-site
The Windsor Yacht Club has been hosting boaters for over 80 years and is still one of the most welcoming stops along the river. If you’re a member of a reciprocating club, this is a no-brainer. Even if you’re not, it’s worth calling ahead to ask about availability.
Riverside Harbour
Location: Beside Lakeview and Windsor Yacht Club
Transient Rate: Seasonal pricing (~$66.75/ft); transient availability limited
Amenities:
- Seasonal and transient slips
- Up to 42 ft boat length
- Shore power and water
- Clean washrooms and showers
Highlights:
- Same easy access to the riverfront
- Scenic views of the Detroit skyline
- Calm docking protected from wind and river current
A slightly more low-key option, Riverside Harbour is a great choice for longer seasonal stays or quieter overnight docking. It’s a perfect base if you’re planning to explore Windsor by foot or bike.
Puce River Harbour Marina
Location: 930 Old Tecumseh Rd, Belle River (Tecumseh)
Transient Rate: Call for pricing
Amenities:
- 5 transient docks
- Fuel dock with 91-octane gas
- Pump-out station
- Launch ramp
- Modern showers and restrooms
- Sandbar Waterfront Grill onsite
- Public beach nearby
Highlights:
- About 10 nautical miles east of Windsor
- Large waterfront patio restaurant
- Family-friendly with park and beach access
- Groceries, LCBO, and beer store nearby
Though it’s a short cruise away from Windsor proper, Puce River is a favorite among locals for a reason: the food, the view, and the relaxing atmosphere. If you’re looking for a more resort-style stop with beach vibes, this is a fantastic option.
Belle River Marina
Location: Belle River (Lakeshore), ~20 minutes east by boat
Transient Rate: $2.00/ft + HST/night
Amenities:
- Boat ramp and jet ski access
- Fuel dock
- Waste disposal
- Pet-friendly
- Adjacent public beach and walking paths
Highlights:
- Located in the quiet town of Belle River
- Peaceful surroundings with small-town charm
- Family-focused events in the summer
- Ideal for an overnight rest stop
Belle River Marina is simple but effective, offering everything a transient boater needs in a laid-back environment. It’s not the place for nightlife, but perfect if you’re after a peaceful evening and a morning coffee by the water.
Quick Comparison Table
| Marina | Transient Rate | Power/Water | Fuel | Pump-out | Showers | Closest to |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Lakeview Park Marina | $2.50/ft | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | Downtown Windsor |
| Windsor Yacht Club | $2.00/ft | ✅ | ❌ | ❌ | ✅ | Riverside / Club |
| Riverside Harbour | ~$66.75/ft (season) | ✅ | ❌ | ❌ | ✅ | Same area |
| Puce River Marina | Call for rates | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | Tecumseh / Beach |
| Belle River Marina | $2.00/ft + HST | ✅ | ✅ | ❌ | ❌ | Belle River town |
Things to Do in Windsor When Docked
Whether you’re docked downtown or further east, Windsor offers a variety of activities for all types of boaters:
- Windsor Sculpture Park: Outdoor art installations right on the waterfront trail.
- Caesars Windsor Casino: Entertainment, gaming, and upscale restaurants.
- Walkerville District: Great craft breweries, local shops, and restaurants.
- Peche Island: Nature exploration, accessible via boat or seasonal tour.
- Ojibway Nature Centre: Perfect for nature lovers and bird watchers.
- Riverfront Trail: Bike-friendly, scenic, and connected to multiple marinas.
Final Thoughts
If you’ve ever passed Windsor by thinking it’s just another industrial border city—think again. From the full-service Lakeview Park Marina to the cozy charm of Puce River or Belle River, this area is filled with surprisingly scenic, comfortable, and friendly spots for Great Lakes boaters.
For a night or a weekend, Windsor is the kind of place where you can fuel up, relax, grab dinner, and maybe even win a little at the casino before heading back out on the water. Give Windsor a shot—and like many boaters before you, you might just make it a regular stop.
Disclaimer
The information provided in this article is based on available data and is subject to change. Rates, amenities, and services may vary depending on the marina and time of year. It’s always best to verify information with the marina directly for the most up-to-date and accurate details. This article is intended to provide general information and is not a substitute for professional advice or direct confirmation from the marinas.
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