Preparing for your trip!

Bringing your own boat?

You may bring your own boat into Canada. Bring along whatever documentation you already have such as a sales invoice but you do not need to acquire anything special. Please clean your boat inside and out with bleach or other recommended chemicals - we must do everything we can to prevent the transport of invasive species.

Make sure that you have all safety equipment including a life jacket for all persons. Double check your tires, not forgetting the spare, and trailer - better to deal with any problems at home than on the road! You may bring gasoline across the border, that is, a reasonable amount for personal use.

If you have any questions, please call us, or you may call Canadian Border Services direct at 204-983-3500 or 506 636-5064 (note that long distance charges will apply). If you have any questions about cleaning your boat for travel, call the invading species hotline at 1 800 563-7711.

Customs Requirements

All people entering the US by car will need a passport, a pass card, or enhanced driver's license. It's always a good idea to travel with identification.

Children

For children, bring along any identification you may have with a birth certificate being the minimum. If the kids are not yours or live at a different address, get a letter of permission from a parent or guardian.

Pets

For the furry kids, proof of a recent (within 36 months) rabies vaccination is required. For cats and dogs less than 8 months old, you do not need a certificate of rabies but they must be in good health. It is a good idea to get your vet to give you a health certificate for these little ones.

Groceries

Joining us for dinner in the Lodges' dining room will reduce your need to pack and bring along extra supplies. For those who do bring groceries into Canada, you are allowed 2 days worth of food per person. We can't give you a dollar value for this but we believe it means a reasonable amount for the length of stay. As you pass through Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario after crossing the border, you will pass at least three good grocery stores - best to purchase most of your supplies here. Often, a certain product will be targeted at the border such as meat products or produce. You may contact the Canadian Food Inspection Agency for specific details.

Alcohol and Cigarettes

You are allowed to bring in 40 ounces of liquor or 24 bottles or cans of beer per adult 19 years of age or older. You may bring more alcoholic beverages if you are willing to pay extra fees and taxes. Visitors to Ontario who are 19 years of age and older, may bring in 200 cigarettes and 50 cigars.

Fishing License

For the fisher people, you must purchase an Ontario fishing license, best to do this well before you head North. Check out the Ontario Fishing Regulations for details.

Check out the Natural Resources website for all the regulations - www.mnr.gov.on.ca

Firearms

Please note that pepper spray is prohibited as are radar detectors. It is common knowledge that Canadian rules about firearms are quite strict. Check out the website www.cfc-cafc.gc.ca for more info.

Firewood

Do not bring firewood into Canada!