Belwood Lake relaunches flotilla in celebration of Canada Day

BELWOOD –  The Belwood Lake Canada Day Flotilla returns on Sunday June 30.

Belwood Lake Cottagers’ Association (BLCA) member Christine Cristiano is organizing the event this year.

She said she was happy to report that the Wellington OPP Marine Unit will make a return this year to lead the flotilla.

The flotilla starts at noon in front of Highland Pines Campground and will cruise clockwise around the lake.

The cruise takes about two hours.

The event is highly anticipated by cottagers and visitors, Cristiano said.

“Typically we get from 25-30 boaters out on the lake.

“It is really special to see the Belwood community come together, especially the local cottagers.

“Everyone puts in  such an amazing effort to decorate their boats with Canada flags and decor to spread their love for Candad  to the delight of the spectators on shore.”

Cristiano said visitors  can watch from the conservation area  and the public launch in Belwood.

Visitors are welcome to join the flotilla from the end of the line.

“Be mindful of the other boats and keep a safe speed and distance,” Cristiano said.

“It is unadvisable for kayakers, canoers, sailboats and row boats to be in the flotilla for safety reasons.”

In past years, many cottagers not taking part have decorated their docks and cheered on the flotilla as it made its way across the lake.

“One year a local merchant joined the flotilla on the lake and went around to all the boaters before the start with free coffee and donuts,” Cristiano said.

“I love the spectators’ participation ... they wave their flags, and wave to all the boaters as they go by.”