Liftlock and The River Boat Cruises

Liftlock and The River Boat Cruises Explore the beautiful Trent Severn Waterway aboard The Island Princess. Discover the unbelievable beauty of this remote region of the Kawarthas.
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Our season operates daily from Mid-May to Mid-October; a small family run business, since 1994. We are a small family run business. We promote a fun loving, and friendly atmosphere. The Crew are set out to ensure you have a pleasurable and memorable cruise. The popular Sightseeing cruise departs from the Peterborough Marina, next to the Holiday Inn, near Del Crary Park. You will be entertained by

the Captain’s colourful commentary on the history of Peterborough and the Trent Severn Waterway. The tour takes us across Little Lake, past the Peterborough Centennial Fountain and into the City of Peterborough portion of the 118 year old lock system, the first traditional flood lock raises us 12 feet, to the highlight of our trip. Where we go up and over the Peterborough Liftlock which is the world’s highest hydraulic lift lock which lifts 65 feet or 19.8m above the city. This engineering marvel was completed in 1904.


* Departure & times are subject to change without notice - call for availability and reservations

We love seeing our beautiful community highlighted! ☀️The Modern Traveller just released a fantastic guide featuring "10...
06/10/2026

We love seeing our beautiful community highlighted! ☀️

The Modern Traveller just released a fantastic guide featuring "10 Great Places in Peterborough," and we are thrilled to be stop #1.

Beyond the gorgeous time-lapse of our journey up the lock, the video does an incredible job showcasing the vibrant local culture, food, and outdoor spots that make our region so special. We are incredibly proud to be part of such a wonderful tourism community.

Watch the full video below and start planning your next local adventure!

Book your seat aboard our 2-hr sightseeing cruise by calling: 705-742-9912.



https://youtu.be/kRVCMOrqSmA?si=N9DSan3fBJYhxAZA

PRESENTED IN PARTNERSHIP WITH PETERBOROUGH TOURISMLess than a two...

Sunshine, a light breeze, and the historic Trent-Severn Waterway. We’ve got your front-row seat to the most beautiful da...
06/09/2026

Sunshine, a light breeze, and the historic Trent-Severn Waterway. We’ve got your front-row seat to the most beautiful day of the season. Grab a ticket and let's make some waves! Tag the person you are bringing aboard!

Make your reservation by calling us: 705-742-9912

Step back in time over a century ago for today’s  ! 🕰️✨This incredible vintage photograph captures the historic steamshi...
06/04/2026

Step back in time over a century ago for today’s ! 🕰️

✨This incredible vintage photograph captures the historic steamship, the SS Islinda, resting at the base of the world-famous Peterborough Lift Lock, likely in the 1910s or 1920s. Long before modern highways and standard city transit, vessels like the Islinda were the lifeblood of our region—ferrying early cottagers, vacationers, and daily mail from Lakefield all the way up to Stony Lake.

While the steamships have faded into history, the sheer awe of standing at the base of Lock 21 hasn’t changed a bit. We feel incredibly proud to carry on the long, proud tradition of cruising these exact waters! 🛥️🌊

And we love sharing the rich heritage of the Trent-Severn Waterway with our passengers every day. Have you cruised through this historic marvel with us yet this season? 🇨🇦

🌈 Happy Pride Month from all of us at Liftlock & The River Boat Cruises!As we cruise through the beautiful Kawarthas, we...
06/01/2026

🌈 Happy Pride Month from all of us at Liftlock & The River Boat Cruises!

As we cruise through the beautiful Kawarthas, we are incredibly proud to celebrate the vibrant diversity that makes our community so special. We believe the water is for everyone, and we are committed to keeping our decks safe, welcoming, and inclusive for all identities, voices, and love.

Whether you're joining us for a cruise this summer or celebrating in town, remember to be proud of exactly who you are! ⚓️✨

🚢 Ready for an unforgettable journey through history and engineering?Step aboard the Island Princess III for our crowd-f...
05/29/2026

🚢 Ready for an unforgettable journey through history and engineering?

Step aboard the Island Princess III for our crowd-favourite 2-hour Sightseeing Cruise! Whether you are a local or just visiting, there is no better way to experience the stunning Trent-Severn Waterway.

Here is what’s waiting for you:

🎤 Be Entertained: Enjoy live commentary from our Captain detailing the vibrant history of Peterborough's historic waterways.

💦 See the Sights: Glide across Little Lake and catch beautiful views of the Centennial Fountain.

🏗️ Feel the Lift: Experience the world’s highest hydraulic lift lock firsthand, ascending an incredible 65 feet (19.8m) above the city!

☀️ We depart right from the Peterborough Marina (next to the Holiday Inn & Del Crary Park). Plus, we have a fully licensed bar and canteen on board!

🎟️ Tickets: $35 for Adults
📞 Book Today: Call 705.742.9912 or email [email protected] to secure your spot!

 : A fortress or a feat of engineering? 🏗️Long before the millions of tourists, the floating picnics, and the sound of o...
05/28/2026

: A fortress or a feat of engineering? 🏗️

Long before the millions of tourists, the floating picnics, and the sound of our twin engines, there was just mud, muscle, and a massive dream.

This incredible archival photo shows the Peterborough Lift Lock (Lock 21) under construction right around 1900. Look closely at the base and you can see horse-drawn carts working the excavation site! 🐎

When it officially opened in 1904, it was the largest unreinforced concrete structure in the world. Today, we’re lucky enough to cruise right through this historic marvel every single day. It never gets old looking up at those massive towers!

Who remembers their very first time locking through with us? 👇

All aboard! 🛥️ Set sail with Captain Jody on Liftlock Cruises for a front-row seat to Peterborough’s most iconic waterwa...
05/24/2026

All aboard! 🛥️ Set sail with Captain Jody on Liftlock Cruises for a front-row seat to Peterborough’s most iconic waterway adventure.

​Here’s what’s waiting for you on The Island Princess III:

⛴️ ​The Big Lift: Experience the thrill of being raised 65 feet in the air inside the world’s highest hydraulic lift lock!

🎤 ​Captain’s Commentary: Enjoy a 1.5 to 2-hour narrated tour packed with history, local lore, and a healthy dose of humor.

🍿 ​Relax & Refresh: Grab a drink or a snack at the fully licensed onboard cash bar while soaking in the views from the open deck.

​📍 Where: Peterborough Marina (next to Del Crary Park)

🕒 When: Daily departures Mid-May to Mid-October - Reservations required - 705-742-9912

💵 Quick Tip: The ticket office is cash-only, so grab some bills before you arrive.

​Tag a friend who needs to experience the Trent-Severn from a whole new level! 👇



https://www.instagram.com/reel/DYumBQMO7ZP/?igsh=MW82OXU2Z29lMmFmaA==

🚢 Now Booking Group Cruises for 2026! 🚢Looking for the perfect addition to your group’s itinerary? Bring your crew aboar...
05/23/2026

🚢 Now Booking Group Cruises for 2026! 🚢

Looking for the perfect addition to your group’s itinerary? Bring your crew aboard Liftlock Cruises and experience the historic Trent-Severn Waterway together! Whether you're organizing a motorcoach tour, a seniors' outing, or a large family gathering, we make planning seamless.

💰 Special Group Rates for 20+ Guests!

Group bookings must be reserved in advance to secure your preferred date and time.

👉 Ready to lock in your cruise? Contact our office to request your group booking: [email protected]

"For 8 years, man, horse and machine worked together to create a unique feature on the rapidly growing waterway. Three y...
05/21/2026

"For 8 years, man, horse and machine worked together to create a unique feature on the rapidly growing waterway. Three years later a second lift lock was completed at Kirkfield."

05/20/2026

One of Peterborough’s most iconic landmarks.

The Lift Lock is more than just a historic site, it’s a defining feature of the community. Connecting the Trent-Severn Waterway, it adds character, attracts visitors, and highlights the lifestyle that draws people to the area.

It’s details like this that make living here unique. ⁣

Address

92 George Street North Peterborough Marina
Peterborough, ON
K9J2H3

Opening Hours

Monday 9am - 4pm
Tuesday 9am - 4pm
Wednesday 9am - 4pm
Thursday 9am - 4pm
Friday 9am - 4pm
Saturday 9am - 4pm
Sunday 9am - 4pm

Telephone

705-742-9912

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