Riverside Marina in Windsor, Ontario Canada

Riverside Harbour sits at a prime spot where the Detroit River meets Lake St. Clair in Windsor, Ontario. The marina offers boaters a gateway to explore the stunning waterways that connect the Great Lakes. Riverside Harbour offers 100 boat slips and can handle vessels up to 42 feet long, making it a key destination for recreational boating in the region.

Located near beautiful Peche Island, this waterfront facility neighbors both the Windsor Yacht Club and Lakeview Park Marina. The area gives boaters easy access to waterfront parks, dining options, and scenic views of the Detroit skyline.

The marina's position in Windsor's Riverside neighborhood puts visitors close to local attractions and amenities. Its location along Riverside Drive provides convenient access to both downtown Windsor and the quiet suburban areas to the east.

Geographical Context

Riverside sits at a crucial waterfront location in eastern Windsor, Ontario, forming part of the Detroit River shoreline. This strategic position connects major waterways and provides access to both urban and natural environments.

Proximity to Detroit River

Riverside Drive runs parallel to the Detroit River, creating a scenic waterfront corridor. The neighborhood's western edge extends to Westminster Boulevard, with its eastern boundary reaching Rendezvous Shores.

The Detroit River provides a natural border between Canada and the United States. Ships traveling through this waterway connect the Great Lakes system to international trade routes.

The riverfront location offers residents direct access to water activities and recreation. Views of Detroit's skyline across the river create a distinctive urban backdrop.

Connection to Lake St. Clair

The Detroit River flows northward from Lake Erie to Lake St. Clair, placing Riverside at a key point along this water route. This connection makes Riverside a gateway between the two major bodies of water.

The area benefits from Lake St. Clair's influence on local weather patterns and water conditions. The lake's proximity affects temperatures and precipitation throughout the year.

Maritime traffic passing through Riverside connects to Lake St. Clair's shipping channels. These waterways support both commercial vessels and recreational boating activities.

History of Riverside Harbour

Riverside emerged as a vital waterfront community along the Detroit River. The area transformed from farmland into a thriving residential and recreational hub on the eastern edge of Windsor, Ontario.

Early Settlements

The waterfront area that became Riverside started as part of Sandwich East Township. French settlers were among the first to establish homes here, with family names like Belleperche and Lauzon marking their early presence.

In 1913, the area separated from Sandwich East Township. By 1921, Riverside had grown enough to become an official town, establishing its own identity separate from the surrounding communities.

The Detroit River played a key role in early development, providing transportation and supporting local fishing activities.

Development of the Marina

The transformation of Riverside's waterfront began in earnest during the mid-20th century. Recreational boating became popular as the area's prosperity grew.

Small private docks evolved into organized marina facilities. The sheltered location along the Detroit River made it ideal for pleasure craft.

The area attracted Windsor residents seeking waterfront recreation. Many boat clubs and sailing organizations established themselves along Riverside Drive, which runs parallel to the Detroit River.

In 1966, Riverside joined Windsor through annexation, but maintained its distinct waterfront character and marine facilities.

Riverside Marina Facilities

The marina provides essential boating amenities and services at the entrance to Lake St. Clair. Modern washrooms, showers, and well-maintained docks create a comfortable environment for boaters.

Docking and Mooring Details

Riverside Harbour Marina features 100 well-maintained docks that can accommodate vessels up to 42 feet in length. The facility sits next to the Windsor Yacht Club and Lakeview Park Marina.

The marina offers both permanent and transient docking options. Each slip includes:

• Electrical hookups
• Fresh water connections
• Secure mooring cleats
• Easy dock access

Maintenance and Upkeep

Clean restrooms and shower facilities ensure boaters have access to essential amenities during their stay. Regular dock maintenance keeps the structures safe and reliable.

The marina staff performs:

• Daily facility inspections
• Weekly dock cleaning
• Regular safety checks
• Prompt repairs when needed

Located near Peche Island, the facility maintains clear navigation channels and well-marked entrance points for safe harbor access.

Local Attractions

Riverside Harbour features stunning waterfront views and outdoor spaces mixed with historic sites. Natural areas and cultural landmarks line the shores of the Detroit River.

Natural Attractions

Peche Island offers pristine hiking trails and secluded beaches. The 86-acre island is only accessible by boat and provides a peaceful escape with rich wildlife viewing.

The scenic Windsor Riverfront stretches along Riverside Drive with paved walking paths and gardens. The 5-kilometer trail system gives visitors stunning views of the Detroit skyline.

Fishing spots dot the shoreline near the Windsor Yacht Club. The protected harbor waters make it ideal for both experienced and novice anglers.

Cultural Significance

Dieppe Gardens pays tribute to Canadian soldiers with monuments and peaceful green spaces. The manicured gardens feature native plants and rest areas.

The historic Windsor Yacht Club has been a center of maritime activity since 1937. Its distinctive architecture and harbor views make it a local landmark.

Beautiful limestone buildings along Riverside Drive showcase the area's rich architectural heritage. Many structures date back to the early 1900s.

Dining and Entertainment

The Riverside district offers waterfront dining with scenic Detroit River views and evening entertainment options that draw both locals and tourists.

Riverside Area Restaurants

Harbour House Waterfront Eatery stands as a premier dining destination at 9550 Riverside Drive East. The restaurant features a 4,000-square-foot waterfront patio and 8,000-square-foot indoor dining space.

Boaters can access the restaurant directly through five dedicated docks that accommodate vessels up to 50 feet in length.

The Riverside dining scene includes diverse options like Coriander Kitchen & Farm and Sandy's Riverside Grill. These establishments serve fresh seafood, steaks, and local specialties.

Local Bars and Pubs

Evening entertainment thrives at Harbour House's bar area, where guests enjoy live music performances on weekends. The venue stays open until midnight Monday through Thursday.

Several pubs along Riverside Drive offer craft beers and cocktails with views of the Detroit skyline. These establishments feature outdoor seating during warm months.

Happy hour specials and weekly entertainment events draw both young professionals and mature patrons to the area's drinking establishments.

Accommodation and Services

Riverside Harbour features waterfront lodging options ranging from historic manor houses to modern hotels with lake views. Guests can book accommodations year-round with flexible reservation policies and amenity packages.

Hotels and Lodging Options

The historic Ships Anchor Inn offers a unique stay in an 1832 stone manor house along the waterfront. This bed and breakfast provides period charm with modern comforts.

The Waterside Inn delivers upscale accommodations with fully equipped kitchens and lake views. Each suite includes:

• Free wired internet
• Full kitchen with stove and dishwasher
• Separate seating area
• TV and entertainment options

Riverside Lodge provides peaceful marina-side rooms perfect for boating enthusiasts. The property sits directly on the riverbank with easy water access.

Reservation Information

Most properties accept major credit cards and require a deposit at booking. Peak season runs June through September, with higher rates and minimum stay requirements.

Contact properties directly for:

• Current room availability
• Special packages and rates
• Group booking discounts
• Cancellation policies

Advance reservations are strongly recommended during summer months and holiday weekends. Many properties offer online booking through their websites or major travel platforms.

Visitor Information

Riverside Harbour welcomes boaters and visitors with modern facilities and easy access to Windsor's attractions. The marina provides essential services for both short-term guests and seasonal members.

Getting to Riverside Harbour

The marina is located at 9000 Riverside Drive East, Windsor, Ontario. It sits near Peche Island at the Detroit River entrance to Lake St. Clair.

Visitors can access the marina by water through the Detroit River or by car via Riverside Drive. Free parking is available on-site.

The marina office can be reached at 519-945-1863 ext. 234 for docking arrangements and general inquiries.

Local Amenities and Services

The marina features 24-hour access to clean washrooms and shower facilities. A security code is required for entry.

Dining options are available at the adjacent Windsor Yacht Club. Advance reservations are recommended. The club accepts:

• Debit cards
• Visa
• Mastercard
• American Express

The facility is next to Lakeview Park Marina and within walking distance of waterfront trails and parks.

Marina staff can assist with:

• Docking arrangements
• Local navigation information
• Weather updates
• Boat services coordination