Ottawa Locks Tours and Tickets

Q: How long does it take to go through the Ottawa locks?

It takes at least 1.5 hours to go through the eight Ottawa locks along the Rideau Canal to the Ottawa River. This is the first and largest set of locks in the Rideau Lock system; it takes at least two days to complete the entire 47-lock route to Lake Ontario.

Q: How many locks are there in Ottawa?

There are eight historic locks located in the Ottawa lock system along the channel of the Rideau Canal that runs through the city. This set of locks one through eight are operated by hand. A channel walk lines the locks, so you can admire them by both land and water.

Q: How much does it cost to go through the locks in Ottawa?

Passage through a single lockage is C$1 per foot for boats, but most visitors experience the locks via a sightseeing Rideau canal cruise that costs around C$35 per person. You can also view the locks along the scenic walkway lining the canal for free.

Q: What time do locks close on Rideau Canal?

The operating schedule for the locks changes monthly between May and September; the locks do not operate in the winter when the canal freezes. Opening times are generally between 9am and 10am, and closing times are around 4pm on weekdays; the locks close later on weekends and holidays.

Q: Are the Ottawa Locks worth visiting?

Yes, the Ottawa Locks are a UNESCO World Heritage Site and an example of 19th-century engineering. This stretch of the Rideau Lock system is particularly scenic and lined with several historic landmarks, including the Parliament of Canada, Canadian Museum of Nature, Fairmont Château Laurier, Dow’s Lake, and National Arts Centre.

Q: How far in advance should I book an Ottawa Locks river cruise?

Though you can sometimes find last-minute availability for Ottawa Locks river cruises, it’s a good idea to book your tickets at least a few days in advance to avoid finding these popular cruises sold out. You can book Rideau Canal cruise tickets online for dates from May–September.

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Ottawa Boat Cruise - Rideau Canal Cruise

The Rideau Canal links Canada’s capital—Ottawa—with majestic Lake Ontario. On this tour, cruise in comfort along the UNESCO World Heritage–listed waterway and admire sweeping views over top attractions including the Canadian Museum of Nature, Château Laurier, Dow’s Lake, and the National Arts Centre. Along the way, listen as your guide sheds light on centuries of colorful Canadian history.

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Ottawa Boat Cruise - Rideau Canal Cruise

1 hour 30 minutes

4.3

(1,142)

from $42

This small-group bike tour is perfect for families and those wanting a safe and leisurely way to see Ottawa. Most of the route is on designated bike paths or quaint backroads that take you to some of Ottawa’s cultural and natural highlights. See Rideau Hall, cycle the Rideau Canal path, plus see the War Memorial, Byward Market and more. Stop along the way to learn more about certain locations and get local tips from your guide.

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2-Hour Ottawa Express City Bike Tour

2 hours

5.0

(297)

from $59

Ottawa Highlights 3.5 Hour Bike Tour

3 hours 30 minutes

5.0

(99)

from $87

Price varies by group size

Private Photo Session with a Local Photographer in Ottawa

Want to capture your amazing honeymoon? Family vacation while the kids are still little? Your perfect couples retreat from everyday busy life? A solo trip without asking strangers to take pictures of you? Stop searching, we got you here! We are the largest network of local vacation photographers in the world! Besides Ottawa, we operate in over 700 destinations worldwide! We always make sure that every special moment of each client is captured well. We believe in our service and quality of our photos so much that we even offer a 100% money back satisfaction guarantee for your photo shoot. Which means, if you don’t like the result of your photo shoot, you can contact us within 7 days and claim your money back! So what are you waiting for? Become one of our hundreds of happy customers by treating yourself to this special experience! Your family and friends will love the result too!

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Private Photo Session with a Local Photographer in Ottawa

30 minutes

4.5

from $296

Per group

What are people saying about Ottawa Locks

Ottawa Boat Cruise - Rideau Canal Cruise

Brandy_L, Jun 2025

Relaxing boat ride up the...

Relaxing boat ride up the canal. The boat was clean and the crew well organized. We got to see a beautiful sunset and all the highlight! Highly recommend.

Ottawa Boat Cruise - Rideau Canal Cruise

rima_p, Aug 2024

Nice way to see Ottawa

It was clean, just the right length of time. Informative. Nice way to see parts of Ottawa. Luckily it was a nice day.

Ottawa Boat Cruise - Rideau Canal Cruise

Gary_B, Jun 2024

A different perspective

As an Ottawa resident, it was a treat to see our city from a different perspective and hear bits of the history of the region and the canal. The pleasant staff, clean boat, and interesting narrative all combined to make a memorable outing.

Ottawa Boat Cruise - Rideau Canal Cruise

Francis_B, Aug 2023

Frank and Helen

He explained everything. He did a GREAT job. The boat was very clean. Everyone was very friendly. The layout of the boat was very awesome.

Ottawa Boat Cruise - Rideau Canal Cruise

Lesley_W, May 2026

Couple visiting Ottawa for 3 days

I recommend arriving the 20 mins before the start time (as mentioned in the vendor's instructions) thats around the time they check tickets and let you on-board. Our trip was very busy, there was a large number of from a tourist bus. The seats are well packed in, but we got on the boat early and had a great side view. Drinks and snacks are available to purchase on board. The guide was great, lots of information about the canal history and landmarks you pass by. The guide delivered the presentation equally in English and French.

Ottawa Locks

5.0

(1,540)

Ottawa

Know before you go

The Ottawa Locks are a must-see for history buffs and families.
Wheelchair accessible restrooms can be found inside the lockstation.
Don’t forget to bring sunglasses, sunscreen, and a hat, especially if you’re taking a canal cruise.

Ottawa Locks Tours and Tickets

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What are people saying about Ottawa Locks

Ottawa Locks

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