Labour Day might mark the unofficial end of summer, back to school, back to reality... but for boaters? That's just a suggestion.
The truth is, fall boating is one of the best-kept secrets on the lake, and we're about to bring you in on it. Cool breezes, warm sun, cozy layers, low traffic... if summer is the party, fall is the afterglow. And honestly, it might be better.
The water's still warm (thanks, August heatwaves), but the air is cool enough to justify sweaters over swimsuits. It's the season of chilly dips, warm towels, and your favourite hoodie pulled over wet hair. If that's not peak Canadian cottage life, we don't know what is.
In the fall, you're not fighting for dock space or waiting at the ramp. The lake is quiet. You get to slow down, spread out, and soak up the kind of stillness that made you fall in love with boating in the first place. The cooler temps are better for your engine, too - and you won't be battling sunstroke, swarms of bugs, or sunscreen-slicked everything. It's peak cruising weather, plain and simple.
If you're a cottage boater, you already know the vibe. Dock beers in a toque, sunrise cruises with fog dancing off the lake, "do we swim one more time?" debates with your friends.
There's something special about squeezing every last drop out of the season. One more loop of the lake before haul-out. One last dockside dinner. One last float with your favourite people and a hot bevvy in hand. The trees painted in fall colours reflecting off the water. These are the moments that become tradition, the ones you remember just as vividly as July long weekend.
So don't be so eager to pack it in for winter... September and October boating is pure magic. Grab the fleece, toss a few blankets in the bow, and get out there. The season's not over yet!