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Big Blue Boathouse - Private Island-Kenora, Lake of the Woods

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BigBlueBoathouse
Big Blue Boathouse and Guest Cottage
Main Cottage
Main Cottage
Main Cottage

Reviews

9.6 out of 10
Exceptional

Highlights

  • The great outdoors
    Guests love the outdoor space here.
  • Private garden
    A rare find — relax in the peaceful, private garden space.
  • Walkable and wonderful
    Guests love the walkable location for its easy access on foot.
4 bedrooms1 bathroomSleeps 10

Popular amenities

  • Dogs and cats allowed
  • Kitchen
  • Washing machine
  • Barbecue
  • Balcony
  • Free Wi-Fi

Explore the area

View map
kenora, ON
  • Place, Spruce Lake
    ‪1 min drive‬
  • Place, Mink Bay Wetland Trail
    ‪6 min drive‬
  • Place, Keewatin Beach
    ‪7 min drive‬
  • Airport, Kenora, ON (YQK)
    ‪25 min drive‬

Rooms & beds

4 bedrooms (sleeps 10)

Bedroom 1

1 Queen Bed

Bedroom 2

1 Queen Bed

Boathouse Room

2 Single Bunk Beds and 1 Queen Bed

Guest Cottage

2 Single Beds and 1 Queen Bed

1 bathroom

Bathroom 1

Toilet · Shower only

Spaces

Deck or patio
Kitchen
Balcony
Garden
Dining area

About this property

Big Blue Boathouse - Private Island-Kenora, Lake of the Woods

Our property is located on the beautiful Lake of the Woods, Ontario Canada, situated approximately three miles west of Kenora. It is a private 4 acre island with a refurbished Big Blue Boathouse. The main cottage is located in the upstairs portion of the boathouse and has two bedrooms, a junior bunk area with 4 beds (5 feet in length), bathroom, kitchen and living room with vaulted ceilings, and a walk around deck. The boathouse also has a bedroom downstairs, at water level, with a queen bedroom and two sets of bunks. A few steps away on the island there is a guest cottage with a queen bed and two single beds up a steep ladder in the loft area. There is only one bathroom on the island, located in the main cabin. There is an outhouse located just a short walk from the sleeping areas. The island is a private island and you will be the only ones on there. You will need to bring a boat or rent one in either Kenora or Keewatin.

Upstairs Cottage:
Friday and Sat - $400/night
Weekday - $300/night
Weekly - $2100
Add-ons:
Boathouse Bedroom $150/night
Guest Cottage $150/night

The Big Blue Boathouse may be available for a monthly rental rate.
Various weeks/months are available. Please check the calendar. Please call or email if you have questions!




Keywords: island, private, waterfront, lakefront, vacation, cabin, luxury, boathouse, cottage, lake of the woods, Keewatin, Kenora, private island, fishing

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House Rules

Check in after 4:00 PM
Check out before 11:00 AM
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Children

Children allowed: ages 0–17
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Events

No events allowed
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Pets

Pets allowed: dogs and cats (limit 2 total)
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Smoking

Smoking is not permitted

Important information

You need to know

Property # 371938vb
Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
On-site parties or group events are strictly prohibited
Host has indicated that there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property
Host has indicated that there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher
This property has outdoor spaces, such as balconies, patios and terraces, which may not be suitable for children; if you have any concerns, we recommend contacting the property prior to your arrival to confirm that they can accommodate you in a suitable room

About the area

Unorganized Kenora District

Located in Unorganized Kenora District, this cottage is on the waterfront. Mather Walls House and Husky The Muskie are local landmarks, and the area's natural beauty can be seen at Mink Bay Wetland Trail and Vernon Nature Area. Looking to get your feet wet? Jet skiing, snorkelling and waterskiing adventures can be found near the property.
View more Cottages in Unorganized Kenora DistrictOpens in a new window
Map
kenora, ON

What's nearby

  • Spruce Lake - 1 min drive - 0.8 km
  • Mink Bay Wetland Trail - 6 min drive - 4.4 km
  • Keewatin Beach - 7 min drive - 5.2 km
  • Lake of the Woods Discovery Centre - 9 min drive - 7.3 km
  • Lake of the Woods Brewing Company - 14 min drive - 11.7 km

Getting around

  • Kenora, ON (YQK) - 23 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪McDonald's - ‬12 min drive
  • ‪Tim Hortons - ‬13 min drive
  • ‪Lake of the Woods Brewing Co - ‬11 min drive
  • ‪Tim Hortons - ‬10 min drive
  • ‪A & W Root Beer - ‬13 min drive

Frequently asked questions

Is Big Blue Boathouse - Private Island-Kenora, Lake of the Woods pet-friendly?

Yes, this property allows cats and dogs (limit 2 total).

How much does it cost to stay at Big Blue Boathouse - Private Island-Kenora, Lake of the Woods?

As of 30 June 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at Big Blue Boathouse - Private Island-Kenora, Lake of the Woods on 23 May 2027 start from NZ$659, including taxes and fees. This price is based on the lowest nightly price found in the last 24 hours for stays in the next 30 days. Prices are subject to change. Choose your dates for more accurate prices.

What time is check-in at Big Blue Boathouse - Private Island-Kenora, Lake of the Woods?

Check-in begins at 4:00 PM.

What time is check-out at Big Blue Boathouse - Private Island-Kenora, Lake of the Woods?

Checkout is at 11:00 AM.

Where is Big Blue Boathouse - Private Island-Kenora, Lake of the Woods located?

Situated on the waterfront, this cottage is within 1 mile (2 km) of Lake of the Woods and Spruce Lake. Vernon Nature Area and Mink Bay Wetland Trail are also within 2 miles (3 km).

Reviews

9.6

Exceptional

Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.
Learn moreOpens in a new window
Rating 10 - Excellent. 18 out of 21 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 2 out of 21 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 21 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 1 out of 21 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 21 reviews

9.2/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Check-in

9.8/10

Communication

10/10

Location

10/10

Listing accuracy

Reviews

Verified

10/10 Excellent

brendan J.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Getaway

Very fun place to stay
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Melanie J.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Amazing place. Our family of 4 plus our dog didnt want to leave. Walking around the island and fishing right off the dock was so enjoyable. Jumping off the deck was fun. And the cabin was cozy with great views. Thank you for sharing your place of heaven with us.
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Caitlin B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Parents and babies cottage weekend

Location was awesome. Cabin has great use of space. Lots of room for 6 adults and 4 kids.
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveller

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Amazing stay at the big blue!

We had the most amazing long weekend at the Big blue! Was very clean and cozy! Will definitely be staying again and would recommend others to stay as well! Thanks again!
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Ken C.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

We had a great time.

It was wonderful to have a covered place for our boat and water sports equipment. We also caught fish right off the dock. The property manager was quick to respond and a pleasure to deal with.
Verified

8/10 Good

Wayne F.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Cabin Stay

This is a very interesting cabin on the water on lake of the woods. Small but cozy however there is extra space available for a fee. We would recommend it.
Stayed 4 nights in Jun 2023
Archival

10/10 Excellent

Winnipeg/Lethbridge Friends

July 27 to Aug 10th was our second stay at Big Blue, the first being in 2010. We chose to return to Big Blue for numerous reasons: neat and clean property, well-supplied kitchen, proximity to marina and Kenora, fabulous quiet island, and extremely accommodating caretaker, We were thrilled our second experience was as memorable and enjoyable as our first. Thank you so much for sharing your property...we will be back! PS Our one year old Boxer romped all over the island, and we have had no issues with Blasto
Response from VrboOwner on 28 March 2020
We're so happy you have had another great vacation on our island! Thank you for the Review! You are welcome back any time!
Archival

4/10 Poor

Dangerous place

The idea of a private island was quite appealing, we arrived with our boat and our dogs. We had a fun and lively week at the Blue Boat House, August 2012. Tragically, however, our female soft coated wheaten terrier caught a fungus called Blastomytosis (common in Kenora area, but not everyone knows about it) the fungus thrives in rotting wood and vegetation, and there is a lot of it on the Boat house island as it was once a boat building business. We did everything and, we couldn't save our dog and the specialist vet, tested and confirmed that the Blasto came from the Kenora area. I only write this to warn others, I am not saying that she picked up the fungus from the island, but it was likely as she spent all of her time patrolling the island. We mostly enjoyed the boat house in fairness though, the beds were not very comfortable, and we slept on the lounge cushions on the floor. There was no dishwasher and the television was in the attic, it was too hot and difficult to access. On the positive side though the house was nicely renovated and we loved the feeling of the house being on the water and our boat under us. The loss of our dog was a terribly sad out come for a mostly wonderful holiday.
Response from VrboOwner on 28 March 2020
First of all, we would like to express our sincere condolences on the death of your dog, whether or not she got sick on our island. We are sorry for your loss. We were quite shocked to hear about this, because there have been approximately 10 dogs on the island per summer for the last several years. Between dogs other renters have brought, and our own 3 dogs, no one has ever had a problem. I looked up this fungus online, and provide additional information on it, below. It is from dogheirs.com. We would also like to provide further info on your other points. ? Prior to our ownership of the island in 1967, there was a boat building business there. The only sign of this are the cribs you can see underwater. There are no old docks or any other remnants, on the land. ? Beds – the mattresses were purchased 5 years ago, brand new. We find the beds quite comfortable. ? Dishwasher and TV – we don’t list either one of those as being amenities. B. dermatitidis is widely distributed geographically and has been detected throughout North America with the highest prevalence of infection taking place in geographic areas located near water. The fungus grows in moist soil or vegetation. When the soil or vegetation where the fungus lives is disturbed, the infectious spores are released into the air. Dogs may develop blastomycosis by breathing the pathogen into their lungs or having it enter through an open wound. The soil can be disturbed by an activity such as digging in the dirt or following a scent trail. Blastomycosis is a chronic infection, and dogs are usually sick for several weeks before any diagnosis is made. Sometimes it can be mistaken for another illness like pneumonia, because of its impact on the lungs. The disease is more likely to affect dogs with weakened immune systems. Early detection of the illness will increase the odds of your dog's survival. Avoid letting your dog forage in areas with rotting vegetation at water's edges or in dark dense forest where fungi can thrive.
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Loretta M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great stay

The cottage was exactly as advertised and the property was beautiful with lupins and peonies in bloom. Page responded to all of our questions when booking and upon arrival her caretaker came by to be sure our check in was going well. The island is located a short boat ride from Kenora which made it easy to pick up and drop off guests. The bay out front of the island made water skiing and tubing convenient and easy to watch from the deck. The deck that surrounds the entire cottage was fantastic as you could be in sun or shade at any point in the day.
Stayed 7 nights in Jun 2020
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Derek P.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

What a fantastic place to stay !

Page was a wonderful host. The cottage was exactly as she described it. We had 6 adults and 4 kids in our group. A family of ducks would stop by every night to visit which the kids loved . The kids also loved catching crayfish in the evening and using the paddle boat and canoe. We loved the privacy of being on our own island . The boat ride from the keewatin dock was closer than we thought. Everything was very clean and we had no issues arise . Even if you had to rent a boat for the week we highly recommend this cottage!!!
Stayed 5 nights in Aug 2019
Archival

8/10 Good

Sven M.

Big Blue Boathouse

It was a lot of fun at the boathouse. Also very amazing that they had so many beds available. Page, one of the owner was very good and answered all our questions, even though sometimes it took a while for her to respond. It was great to have canoes and a paddle boat available. We sure did use those. The fire pit was great too. We loved our stay. It was really great. We were a bit disappointed about the cleanliness of the place when we arrived. A lot of dust, spiderwebs and smeary mirrors.
Response from VrboOwner on 28 March 2020
We are so glad you had a great time! Thank you for letting us know about your issues - we will take steps to make sure those things are corrected.
Archival

10/10 Excellent

Ted B.

We loved the Big Blue!

We have rented a number of places on Lake of the Woods over the years and the Big Blue is definitely our favourite. We couldn't have asked for a more convenient location. Very well equipped and well thought out cabin. Definitely not lacking for anything. Our young kids loved the bunk beds, playing in the loft and challenging themselves to jump off the deck. My wife and I loved relaxing mornings with coffee and the great view. We caught an amazing lightning storm one night and it was great watching the light show from above knowing that our boat was perfectly safe and protected down below. We had a great time star gazing, swimming, canoeing, water skiing, tubing, fishing and visiting with friends on the lake - and all in 5 days. Just imagine what we could do with a longer vacation at the Big Blue. One of our best vacations on Lake of the Woods (other than being too short). Thanks Big Blue!
Response from VrboOwner on 28 March 2020
Sounds like you folks know how to do vacations right! So glad you chose our island, and hope you return again! You were great guests!
Archival

10/10 Excellent

Roxanne D.

Peaceful, beautiful, amazing!

My family rented the boathouse for a short staycation so we could just get away and relax. I agree with all the other reviews that said that the photos don't do this place justice - the kitchen is modern and well-equipped, the place is very spacious, and it's just so comfortable to be inside when you don't want to be outside. (But you do want to be outside. It's so beautiful.) I really appreciate that dogs are allowed as our two boys enjoyed having so much freedom to run around and it was a joy to see. Bring fishing kits, board games (though they have some there, thank you!) and some outdoor games as there is a large park area perfect for badminton, soccer, etc. I would also definitely recommend exploring and going to Kenora and Keewatin for breakfast in the morning and drinks at night!
Response from VrboOwner on 28 March 2020
We are so happy that you had a great time! You and your family are welcome back anytime! The island is a very special place!
Archival

10/10 Excellent

David A.

Very Nice Week

We spent 7 great days at the Boathouse in June of 2015. Not our first visit to this beautiful lake but our first time at the Boathouse. We were very happy with the accommodations. The entire trip, payment, facilities, etc. was very nice. We arrived to find everything in excellent condition. The living area is updated, clean, comfortable and everything worked just fine the entire week. Kitchen was well stocked with all utensils, dishes and appliances. Beds and linens were clean, comfortable and well maintained. The deck was huge and well stocked with lounges, chairs, tables, etc. The boathouse was very roomy and super nice to pull into at the end of the day. I am particularly grateful that a place like this is available for rent and I appreciate the owners keeping it in such great shape for many to enjoy. We will stay here again! I highly recommend for families and groups large and small.
Response from VrboOwner on 28 March 2020
We are so happy that you enjoyed our island so much! We really love it there too, and want others to experience it! You were wonderful, respectful guests and are welcomed back any time!
Archival

10/10 Excellent

Adam O.

Perfect weekend

I rented the boathouse for two nights with some friends this May. Upon entering, I realised the pictures didn't do the rental justice. A lot of the upgrades look to have been done recently and very well. We had a bonfire both nights, the pit is at the point of the island and all of the town lights can be seen at night from here. Some of my local friends commented that it was the best fire pit on the lake! All of the guests were comfortable and it was nice to see that previous guests had left things behind for future visitors. Don't be scared off if you have land lubber visitors with no boat, it took us longer to untie the boat than it did to drive to the Keewatin beach dock to pick up guests. We will be making our next reservation for this place sooner than later!
Response from VrboOwner on 28 March 2020
We are so happy that you loved our island and had a great time! We hope to see you next year!
Archival

10/10 Excellent

Tyson M.

Fantastic

The Big Blue Boathouse was even better then we imagined it would be! Had an awesome weekend and looking forward to returning. The cabin was in excellent condition and fully stocked with all of the essentials. The wrap around deck had an amazing view and there was lots of great fishing near by!
Response from VrboOwner on 28 March 2020
Glad you had a great time and great fishing! Thanks for the picture of the huge fish you caught!
Archival

10/10 Excellent

Koda 7.

Fantastic Family Fun

We stayed at the Big Blue Boathouse for 4 nights in June, 2014. We were 4 families with 7 kids. Everything from the grounds on the island to the boathouse and the cabin atop, were in fantastic condition!! Everything you need is provided and in great condition... We had 7 kids all under the age on 9 yrs old. The kids had an absolutely fantastic experience! From treasure hunts, to looking for pirates, to boat rides to catching tons of fish right from the dock, our children had such a great time that they were all asking to go back the following weekend... We also had a pup, and had no issues with Blasto.... Our only regret is not taking the cabin for a full week... Hopefully next year!!
Response from VrboOwner on 28 March 2020
We are so glad you had a great time! The Treasure Hunt sounds fun! We might have to try that next time we're there! Hope to have you back next summer! You were awesome guests!
Archival

10/10 Excellent

AMAZING!!!

The property was better than described. Comfortable with every amenity needed on hand. Very clean and well maintained. The owner was prompt with answering emails and the transfer of funds and return of deposit were hassle free. Born and raised in Kenora, we know Blasto is a concern in the area, however, we had two dogs and no problems. It is unfortunate regarding the other post, we all love our dogs but again, our pups were fine. We are definitely requesting stays in the future! Thank you for sharing your lovely property!
Response from VrboOwner on 28 March 2020
We are so glad you enjoyed your stay! We look forward to having you again next summer! You are wonderful guests!
Archival

10/10 Excellent

Paradise!!!!

We just returned from a week on the Big Blue Boathouse. 6 kids 2 dogs and 6 adults. The kids had a great time none stop swimming and jumping off the upper deck. Nice quiet area with minimal boat traffic. Lots of room for everyone and just a quick boat ride to town if we needed anything. I would highly recommend it to anyone looking for a summer getaway. It was worth the 1500 km drive from Edmonton!
Response from VrboOwner on 28 March 2020
We are so happy you enjoyed our island as much as we do! Thank you for taking the time to post a review! We would love to have you visit again next summer!
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Brenda B.

Liked: Check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Stayed 7 nights in Jun 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveller

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2023

About the host

Hosted by Page

Host profile image
My sisters and I own this lovely place. Our parents purchased it in 1967 and we have spent many summers here. It's the best place on earth!

Why they chose this property

My sisters and I grew up spending summers at this magical place. We loved it so much that we decided to update it and we have been really happy with how it turned out. We love every minute we get to spend here, and love to let others enjoy it as well.

What makes this property unique

If you have never spent the night in a boathouse, then you are in for a treat. You can hear the water below as the boats move around. Storms are a great experience here as they come up very fast and hard, then slowly go away. Hot days are wonderful as your stay is spent mostly above the water on the circular deck that surrounds the cottage, or down below just inches from the water. Feel free to walk the trail that goes around the whole Island.
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