Feature photo: Heather and Rob Heins with the Santa Maria. Houseboats rent by the week. Pontoon boats rent by the day or week.

PORTLAND - Heather and Rob Heins love being on the water so they've made it their business to get you out cruising on the Rideau Canal system.

The couple launched Big Rideau Lake Boat Rentals 21 years ago. "My family built the very first sailing ships ever built in Canada, with the first one named the Miramichi, so being on the water is in my blood," says Heather.

Located on the Rideau Canal system, they have six spacious houseboats, ranging from 32 to 42 feet in length, and three 22-foot pontoon boats. Boats are equipped with GPS tablets with the Navionics app as well as paper maps to negotiate the lakes and lock stations. The goal is to offer all the amenities for a carefree, enjoyable time on the water.

"People have come back and told me it was the best vacation they've ever had," says Heather. "They're ecstatic and completely relaxed coming off these boats."

The couple lives at their marina and are familiar with the waterway and what is needed for safe navigation. Boats are propelled by 115 high-efficiency, four-stroke outboard motors. All vessels have LED lights, back-up batteries, fully-equipped kitchens (dishes, cutlery, microwave, cooktop, fridge and freezer), three-piece bathrooms and comfortable sofas folding out into beds.

Each vessel has a propane BBQ, patio table and chairs and deck chairs for rooftop enjoyment. Some boats are wheelchair and scooter accessible. The cabins are air conditioned. Bedding and towel kits are available or you can bring your own. Cruisers sleep four to six. This season boats will have a single-person Pelican kayak for those who want to explore.

Spending days or weeks floating on the water takes you away from the noise of the city, says Heather. There is a lot to see and do along the Rideau Heritage Route.

"Everyone says the beauty is beyond their expectations," she says, adding "some describe their time on the historic waterway as an unforgettable voyage."

Learn more about this Leeds Grenville business by visiting their website . Contact Heather and Rob via email or give them a call at 613-812-7653. Their business overlooks Big Rideau Lake at 15 Water Street in Portland.

Story and photos courtesy of the Leeds Grenville Economic Development Office.