It was a good day to be travelling on the Trent-Severn Waterway because for the first time, it was free in honour of Canada Day.
Ed Braddock has travelled the Trent-Severn Waterway for more than 40 years and says he is off to a great start on Wednesday.
“Well I came in with my wallet to try and pay for today’s lock pass and they told me it's free. It's Canada Day,” says boater Ed Braddock.
Although it was a cool wet spring, business has been brisk so far for the 96th season of the Trent-Severn.
“We've been up overall about 34 per cent. The Trent-Severn Waterway is 386 kilometres from Trenton to Port Severn, so we do cross many different communities,” says Cam Truemner, lockmaster.
Numbers show that boaters are spending more money along the Trent-Severn and the federal government recently announced it will invest $285 million to improve the waterway. John Holgate and friends on three other boats are making their traditional Canada Day trek to a favourite restaurant. This is a day he's been eagerly awaiting.
“This is the first trip,” he says. “It's been a little cold this year and a little wet.”
Steve Gushie says he hears it every year from Americans on the Trent-Severn, how lucky he is to be in Canada.
“Canada is so beautiful, especially during the summer time. We enjoy this type of temperature, the fun and the outdoor activities.
The free ticket through the Trent-Severn Waterway is only good for Canada Day, but another celebration is coming later this month. On July 24 and 25 the Trent-Severn Waterway celebrates the 100 anniversary of lock 45.
