Boats on Ward’s Island

There’s something peaceful about watching boats move across the harbour — each one telling its own little story. On my Saturday photo walk to Ward’s Island, I found myself not just taking the ferry, but also photographing every kind of boat that shared the water that morning.

As the Toronto ferry pulled away from the terminal, I caught a view of the skyline — that classic postcard shot with the CN Tower standing tall and the water glinting below. The ferry moved slow enough for me to enjoy the rhythm of the waves, and I couldn’t resist snapping a black-and-white shot as the ferry crossed the calm lake. There’s something timeless about it — almost like a scene from another era.

Further along, I spotted a large cargo ship resting by the port. It looked like a sleeping giant, covered in rust and stories. You could almost imagine the miles it had traveled, hauling goods across the Great Lakes. The industrial backdrop made it even more cinematic.

And then came a small speedboat darting across the water, leaving a perfect white trail behind. While the big ships seemed patient and deliberate, this little boat had all the energy of someone in a hurry to make the most of a sunny morning.

Then the  kayaks became the gentle contrast in my series of photos. While everything else moved with engines, noise, and direction, the kayaks drifted calmly, carried by human effort and patience. They reminded me that the lake isn’t just for travel — it’s a place to breathe, to slow down, and to see the city from a quieter point of view.

By the time we walked around  Ward’s Island, I had a series of photos that showed three sides of Toronto’s waterfront — the working harbour, the city skyline, and the playfulness of lake life. It reminded me how diverse this small stretch of water really is. Every boat has its purpose, and every crossing has a different view.

It was a good day to just slow down, watch the water, and let the boats tell their stories.