Peterborough Liftlock Cruises boat tour of the Peterborough Lift Lock

See the world’s tallest lift lock: Peterborough Liftlock Cruises

Peterborough, Ontario, is home to one of the most extraordinary engineering feats in the world—the Peterborough Lift Lock–the tallest hydraulic lift lock in the world. Part of the historic Trent-Severn Waterway, this lock has fascinated visitors for over a century. A two-hour boat cruise with Peterborough Liftlock Cruises offers the opportunity to experience this marvel up close.

Why take this tour?

See the world-famous Peterborough Lift Lock up close.
Learn about the people and history behind the construction of the Trent-Severn Waterway and the Peterborough Lift Lock.
The 2-hour tour offered by Peterborough Liftlock Cruises is both educational and relaxing, making it an ideal activity for all ages.

Tour Schedule and Pricing

The 2-hour boat cruise by Peterborough Liftlock Cruises runs from mid-May to mid-October, daily.
Ticket prices range from $3.50 to $35 per person (HST included).
Cash only.
Reservations are recommended.

What to expect on this 2-hour tour by Peterborough Liftlock Cruises

Your adventure begins at the Peterborough Marina, located next to the Holiday Inn near Del Crary Park. Once you’ve picked up your ticket, you’ll lineup and then step aboard the Island Princess III. Suitable for sightseeing in any weather, the vessel provides you with the option of sitting in the enclosed lower deck or on the open upper deck which is covered by a sun-blocking canopy.

The 2-hour boat cruise begins with a leisurely journey across the tranquil waters of Little Lake, passing the impressive Peterborough Centennial Fountain. Throughout the voyage the captain’s captivating commentary will bring the history of Peterborough and the Trent-Severn Waterway to life, entertaining you with tales of Peterborough’s past, the waterway’s construction and how “the Trent” has played a role in the development of the region.

The star of the show: the Peterborough Lift Lock

As part of this 2-hour Peterborough Liftlock Cruises tour, you’ll go through two locks. The first is Lock 20, a traditional flood lock. Once you and the Island Princess III are nestled into Lock 20 you will be raised 12 feet and then released into the waterway. But this is just a prelude to the main event—the Peterborough Lift Lock.

The Peterborough Lift Lock, or lock 21, isn’t just a local landmark—it’s a world record holder! As the tallest hydraulic lift lock on the planet, it’s a testament to early 20th-century engineering and innovation.

When it was completed in 1904, it was the tallest structure of its kind. Even more fascinating is that this lock remains largely unchanged today, making it a living piece of history that continues to operate much as it did over a century ago.

So how does the lock work?

Well, unlike traditional locks that use gravity to move water in and out, the Peterborough Lift Lock uses a counterweight system. As one chamber rises, the other lowers, powered entirely by the weight of the water. The simplicity and efficiency of this design continue to impress engineers and visitors alike.

Once you and the Island Princess III enter the lock chamber and it’s secured, you’ll be effortlessly lifted an astonishing 65 feet (19.8 meters) above the city by the Peterborough Lift Lock’s massive hydraulic system.

What you will come away with

After completing this two-hour Peterborough Liftlock Cruises tour, you’ll have a:

Deeper understanding of the Trent-Severn Waterway and how it has shaped the local community and economy over the past century.
Greater appreciation for the ingenuity and determination that went into building the waterway and its components, especially the Peterborough Lift Lock.

This tour is perfect for:

Tourists: who are searching for a relaxing, informative boat cruise experience.
Families: the calm waters, educational content and humourous host make this a great family-friendly activity.
History buffs: those interested in Canadian history and engineering will find this tour offers plenty of intriguing information and impressive sights.
Locals: who have seen the Peterborough Lift Lock before but have never learned the story behind it and why it’s considered a worldwide marvel of engineering.

A few things to note

Restrooms onboard? Yes.
Snack bar onboard? Yes. Cash-only.
Fully licensed bar onboard? Yes. Cash-only.
Wheelchair accessible? Yes.
Bring a sweater or jacket. Depending on the day, it can be a little cooler out on the water.

Enjoy your 2-hour Peterborough Liftlock Cruises tour!