Buying the Right Boat for Your Muskoka Cottage 

If you’re buying a cottage or lakefront property in Muskoka, one question will come up sooner than you think: What kind of boat should I buy?

Whether you're cruising Lake Rosseau, fishing on Lake Joseph, or pulling into Port Carling for dinner, the right boat completes the Muskoka lifestyle. In this guide, we break down how to choose the perfect boat based on your lake, lifestyle, and cottage type—so you can enjoy every sun-drenched moment on the water.

Why Your Boat Choice Matters in Muskoka

Muskoka isn’t just any cottage destination—it’s Canada's most iconic lake region, where boating is both transportation and tradition. From island cottages only accessible by water to luxury properties with custom boathouses, your boat isn’t just for fun—it’s a key part of your daily life in Muskoka.

The Best Boat Types for Muskoka Cottagers

Bowriders & Deck Boats

Best for: Families, tubing, day cruising
Lakes: Lake Muskoka, Lake Joseph, Lake Rosseau

These versatile powerboats are ideal for most cottagers. With open seating, swim platforms, and enough power to pull kids on a tube, they’re perfect for casual lake life. Brands like Chris Craft, Sea Ray, and Scout are popular across Muskoka.

Tip: Choose a model with a deep hull for more comfort when crossing big water on breezy days.

Pontoon Boats

Best for: Entertaining, relaxed cruising, shallow water
Lakes: Smaller lakes or sheltered bays on larger lakes

Today’s pontoons are luxurious, quiet, and spacious—many feature BBQs, changing rooms, and full sunshades. Great for cottage parties or relaxed evenings on Lake Vernon or Fairy Lake near Huntsville.

Tip: A tritoon (3-tube) version adds speed and stability if you want to cruise faster.

Classic Wooden Boats

Best for: Style, nostalgia, making an entrance
Lakes: Lake Rosseau, Lake Muskoka, Lake Joseph (a.k.a. “Billionaires’ Row”)

Nothing says Muskoka like a vintage Ditchburn or Greavette boat gliding through the water. If you’re buying a high-end waterfront estate or boathouse cottage, a handcrafted wooden boat is the ultimate finishing touch.

Tip: Maintenance is higher, but these boats turn heads and hold their value if well kept.

Wake Boats & Ski Boats

Best for: Watersports, younger families, adrenaline
Lakes: Lake of Bays, Skeleton Lake, Lake Muskoka

If you love wakeboarding, wakesurfing, or waterskiing, go for brands like Nautique, MasterCraft, or Malibu. These boats have ballast systems to create perfect wakes, and are popular on larger, more active lakes.

Tip: Check your lake’s noise bylaws and water traffic rules—some lakes have limitations on wakesurfing.

Aluminum Fishing Boats

Best for: Anglers, quiet mornings, smaller lakes
Lakes: Lake of Bays, Echo Lake, or secluded spots near Dorset and Baysville

Light, simple, and easy to store, these boats are ideal for early-morning fishing or paddling to a nearby dock. Look for Lund, Alumacraft, or Princecraft models if fishing is your priority.

Tip: Make sure your boathouse or dock setup includes power for a trolling motor or battery charger.

Choosing the Right Boat for Your Property

Your cottage setup should help guide your decision:

• Island Property? You need a reliable, all-weather boat with lots of cargo space—often two boats: one for transport, one for fun.

• Boathouse Property? Measure your slip carefully before buying. Most boathouses in Muskoka were designed for boats 18–24 ft long.

• No Dock Yet? Budget for dock installation or dry storage and launch fees at marinas like Pride Marine Group, Walker's Point Marina, or Allport Marina.

Where to Buy Boats in Muskoka

Here are a few reputable Muskoka boat dealers:

• Pride Marine Group – Specializing in luxury boats like Nautique, Frauscher and Chris Craft. Locations on Lake Muskoka and Rosseau

• Walker's Point Marina – Great marina for Sea Doos, boat trailers and accessories

• Port Sandfield Marina – Sales, rentals, and classic Muskoka merchandise

Bonus: Many of these offer winter storage, servicing, and delivery to your dock.

Final Thoughts: Your Muskoka Boat is Part of Your Cottage Lifestyle

Buying a boat in Muskoka is about more than horsepower or hull type—it’s about how you want to live at the lake. Whether it’s morning paddles, big wake surf days, or evening wine cruises, the right boat makes your Muskoka home feel complete.

If you’re buying a lakefront cottage in Muskoka or considering a move to the region, I can help match you with a property—and a lifestyle—that fits your boating dreams.

Let’s talk cottages, docks, boathouses, and lake life.
Contact me for current water-access listings, boathouse properties, or local marina connections to help you hit the water faster this summer.