Bringing a boat north from Florida, running a yacht south for the winter, or delivering a new purchase from Boston or New York: a successful delivery is decided long before the lines come off. Pre-departure inspection, passage plan, weather windows, marina reservations, lock transits, fuelling and border formalities - I plan every stage with you and keep you informed throughout the trip.
I have taken part in long-distance deliveries between Florida, New York, Boston, Quebec and the Thousand Islands on boats up to 76 feet, and I have run my own boats through the Erie, Oswego, Rideau and Trent-Severn canals - including the Big Chute marine railway and the hydraulic lift locks - all the way to Georgian Bay. That first-hand knowledge of northeastern North American waterways is the difference between an uneventful delivery and an expensive adventure.
Routes covered
- Florida ⇄ Quebec / Thousand Islands (ICW, Hudson River, Champlain, Erie or Oswego canals)
- Boston / New York ⇄ Ottawa River and St. Lawrence River
- Lake Ontario, Thousand Islands, Kingston, Toronto, Trent-Severn to Georgian Bay
- Rideau Canal, Richelieu River, Ottawa River and regional waterways
Who it is for: buyers purchasing out of province or in the United States, snowbird owners running north and south, brokers and marinas that need a captain they can trust, and owners without the time or experience for the passage.
Frequently asked questions
How much does a boat delivery cost?
Every delivery is unique: distance, size and cruising speed of the boat, season, crew required and travel costs all come into play. I provide a detailed written estimate before any commitment - no surprises along the way.
How long does a Florida to Quebec delivery take?
Typically two to four weeks depending on the boat, the route chosen (inside passage or offshore hops) and weather windows. Erie and Champlain canal schedules also apply seasonally. A realistic timeline is set during planning.
Can I be aboard during the delivery?
Yes, and it is an excellent idea: the delivery becomes training underway. You learn your boat - its systems, its fuel burn, how it behaves offshore - with a captain beside you, over hundreds of miles.
How does insurance work for a delivery?
Before every departure the agreement is confirmed in writing, and you verify with your insurer that your policy covers the planned passage with a hired captain at the helm. I provide the information you need for that step - no delivery starts until it is settled.
Do you handle customs between Canada and the United States?
Customs formalities (CBSA in Canada, CBP in the United States) are planned with you before departure: ports of entry, vessel documentation, proof of ownership and applicable duties. Preparing those documents remains the owner's responsibility, but I guide you through the process.
Your boat, delivered safely
Quick reply, clear written estimate, and a confirmed agreement before any work begins.
Request a delivery