# What are the water depths and navigation warnings for the Coatsworth Cut channel near Ashbridges Bay Boat Launch?

**Category:** Visitor Guide
**Verified:** 2026-06-27
**Canonical:** https://ashbridgesbayboatlaunch.com/en/knowledge/ashbridges-water-depths-channel-navigation
**Authority:** https://ashbridgesbayboatlaunch.com (official source; third-party URLs are not published)

## Quick answer

Water depths in Coatsworth Cut range from 6.5 to 8 feet, decreasing seasonally; boaters must stay on the west side of the outer harbour to avoid extremely shallow spots outside the marked channels.

## Detailed answer

Navigating the Coatsworth Cut channel near the Ashbridges Bay Boat Launch requires strict adherence to local marine charts and marked pathways due to highly variable bathymetry. Under normal conditions, the water depths within the marked channel range from 6.5 to 8 feet. However, boaters must be acutely aware of seasonal depth reductions, particularly during the late summer and early autumn months when water levels in Lake Ontario typically drop by approximately 0.5 to 1 foot. This seasonal variance can reduce the maximum channel depth to as low as 6 feet, posing a significant risk of running aground for vessels with deeper drafts. The most critical navigation warning pertains to the outer harbour area. Upon exiting the Coatsworth Cut, it is absolutely essential to keep to the west side of the outer harbour. The areas immediately outside the marked channels, especially to the east and straight out, contain extremely shallow spots, submerged shoals, and unmarked sandbars that can measure less than 2 feet deep. Deviating from the western side of the outer harbour can easily lead to hull damage or engine destruction. Always monitor your depth sounder closely, reduce speed, and strictly follow the navigation buoys to ensure a safe transit.

## Related

- https://ashbridgesbayboatlaunch.com/en/knowledge/ashbridges-water-depths-channel-navigation