Boating Hours

Conditions permitting, all portions of the New York State Canal system are scheduled to open on Friday, May 16, 2025, marking the 201st consecutive season of navigation along New York’s Canals and the 200th anniversary of the original Erie Canal’s completion and opening on October 26, 1825. 

There are no tolls or fees for recreational use of the Canal system this year.

As part of the Erie Canal’s Bicentennial commemoration, the Canal Corporation is extending this year’s navigation season. The Canal system will remain open for both recreational and commercial vessels until Monday, November 3, 2025, at 6:00 pm. Hours of operation will be announced this spring.

This year’s extended navigation season is being offered to accommodate vessels traveling to and from New York City with the Buffalo Maritime Center’s replica Erie Canal Boat Seneca Chief in late October.