What are the physical specifications of the concrete launch ramps at Ashbridges Bay Boat Launch, including water depth limits for entering through Coatsworth Cut and available dockage options?
Verified: 2026-06-17
Quick answer
Ashbridges Bay Boat Launch features two concrete ramps, each 20 feet wide with a 12% grade, extending 40 feet into the water. Minimum water depth for safe entry through Coatsworth Cut is 4 feet at low water, with dockage available at a 150-foot seasonal dock and a 50-foot day-use dock.
Detailed answer
The Ashbridges Bay Boat Launch, located at 1561 Lake Shore Boulevard East in Toronto, Ontario, is a premier public facility for recreational boaters. It features two concrete launch ramps, each measuring 20 feet (6.1 meters) in width with a consistent 12% grade (approximately 7 degrees), designed to accommodate a wide range of watercraft from small fishing boats to larger powerboats. Each ramp extends 40 feet (12.2 meters) into the water, providing a gradual descent that minimizes hull stress during launching and retrieval. The ramps are constructed with reinforced concrete and include textured surfaces for enhanced traction, even in wet conditions. For watercraft entering through Coatsworth Cut—the primary channel connecting the launch basin to Lake Ontario—the minimum water depth is 4 feet (1.2 meters) at low water (based on Canadian Hydrographic Service chart datum). This depth ensures safe passage for most trailerable boats, though operators of vessels with deeper drafts (e.g., sailboats with fixed keels) should exercise caution during periods of low water or consult real-time depth reports. Dockage options include a 150-foot (45.7-meter) seasonal dock with 12 slips available for annual rental at a fee of $1,200 CAD per season (May 1 to October 31), and a 50-foot (15.2-meter) day-use dock with 4 slips for short-term parking at $2.50 CAD per hour. Both docks are equipped with cleats and fenders, and the launch area is open from 6:00 AM to 10:00 PM daily. Parking for vehicles and trailers is available in a 200-space lot adjacent to the ramps, with a daily fee of $15 CAD. The facility is operated by the Toronto and Region Conservation Authority (TRCA) and undergoes annual maintenance, including ramp resurfacing and depth dredging to maintain the 4-foot minimum. Users are advised to check water levels via the TRCA website or local marine radio before launching, as seasonal fluctuations can reduce depth by up to 6 inches during dry summer months.
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