Nestled along Lake Ontario's shoreline in Toronto, Ontario, Bluffer's Park Marina is a hidden gem ready to serve recreational boaters.

Panoramic views and sparkling blue water are words more often used to describe an isolated country retreat on a lake, than a big city marina. But Bluffer's Park Marina, located at the base of the Bluffs in the east end of Toronto in Scarborough, Ontario, is certainly the exception. Cruising into its man-made harbour means pulling back on the throttles, and spending a night in a slip or enjoying its first-class restaurant that caters to every craving.

Since the facility opened its doors in 1986, Bluffer's (as it's often referred to) has evolved into a boater's paradise where relaxation is king. The Dogfish Pub, Bluffer's Restaurant, and scenic grounds attract boaters from across Lake Ontario and beyond. In fact, with its outstanding amenities and professional staff, it comes as no surprise to learn Bluffer's has hosted a magnitude of events such as the exclusive Power Boating Canada Lake Ontario Poker Run and the Great Ontario Salmon Derby, which is held every year from July to August, and attracts hundreds of eager anglers who come for that lucky catch.

" When you come down the hill, the weather is different," explains Sarah Forrest, office manager of Bluffer's Park Marina. "At other marinas, the city may be in plain view, but here you can't see anything beyond the beautiful sparkling water and gorgeous ruggedness of the bluffs. It's like you're outside of the city without ever having left it."

But the royal service at Bluffer's extends to the water as well. The fuel docks offer 89 Octane along with diesel for owners of larger cruisers and yachts. But why not stay a night or two? There are approximately 400 slips that can accommodate boats up to 70 feet and are equipped with 20-, 30-, or 50-amp shorepower stations, depending on your needs. WIFI internet access, showers, washrooms, pumpout stations, laundry facilities, ice, water, and a snack bar are also available on site. There's even a 40-ton mobile lift that can raise and transport boats up to 65 feet.

In the event of a breakdown or you require service work on your engine, Bluffer's is also an authorized Mercury/MerCruiser dealer, ready at hand with the necessary parts and equipment to service outboards, I/Os or sterndrive engines. Overseen by service technician, Ulli Slier, the parts and service shop is manned by licensed and certified gas/diesel technicians who are regularly trained in the latest marine technology. "We are equipped to service boats, engines, or even trailers if necessary," explains Slier.

As with any successful business, there's always room for expansion. The marina is currently constructing new shore docks to better serve its residing 24 floating homes. And when the development is complete, the remaining floating-dock space will be used for transient boaters.

It's easy to be captivated by Bluffer's unique surroundings and services. But what sets it apart from many marinas along Lake Ontario's shoreline is its luxurious, first-class waterfront restaurant and casual Dogfish Pub. While both are located on the same site as the marina, both venues can readily serve any function or situation.

The Dogfish Pub is the place to be after a long day of boating. Its expansive, outdoor deck or cozy interior decor, provide the perfect place to enjoy a cold pint (or two), share some finger food with your crew, or savour the more hearty selections from its extensive menu ¨C the panoramic view of the lake and cool evening breezes will surely provide the perfect ending to a day on water.

For a more intimate or celebratory occasion, reserve a table at Bluffer's Restaurant, located on the second level of the building, above the Dogfish Pub. With its upscale setting, wall to wall windows (that also provide excellent views of the lake) and culinary delights prepared by master chefs, Bluffer's Restaurant offers the ideal milieu for an intimate evening with a loved one or the whole family. On any given evening, an assortment of pastas, steaks and fresh seafood await patrons. And combined with an impressive wine list, Bluffer's Restaurant can easily stand-up to the many fine establishments found in Toronto's downtown district.

With its 200-person capacity, the restaurant is also proficient to host weddings or other special events. Patrons are treated a variety of reasonable wedding packages and combined with the availability of an in-house DJ, exclusive limousine service, additional room rental (for under 120 guests) and countless picturesque areas nearby to conduct wedding photos, Bluffer's can provide the perfect reception for your special day.

General manager and co-owner, Paul Kagouras has worked in the restaurant business most of his life. With his business partner and chef, Roland Nuez, the team took over the ownership of Bluffer's Restaurant and Dogfish Pub 10 years ago. Since then, business has doubled. And Paul keeps his marina patrons happy too, offering a 10 percent discount to boaters who dock at the marina.

"I moved from Greece to Toronto when I was very young," explains Kagouras. "When I turned 15, I got my first job as a busboy, and worked my way up through the restaurant business gradually to where I am today."

Five years ago, the duo decided to expand the size of their restaurant, nearly doubling its floorspace. "We made the renovation to better accommodate weddings and large parties," Paul elaborates.

Currently, Paul and Roland have exclusive rights to all of the food provisions on the marina's property. This presently includes the restaurant, pub, and snack bar.

On The Menu
The seafood pasta is truly a magnificent experience. A variety of flavourful seafood mixed with noodles, and topped off with a rich, pasta sauce is a diner's delight and will certainly have you back for more. Other dishes that tantalize your taste buds, include the succulent salmon grilled chicken with vegetables and potatoes, or the favourable steak dinner partnered with red wine sauce, mushrooms, potatoes and seasonal vegetables. With such a diverse selection of upscale fare, it's obvious the chefs take great pride in all the entries. Dessert is also a sweet treat. Try any one of the house specials, such as the exquisite home made tiramisu, chocolate mousse cake, or the mouth watering blue cheese cake. But no matter which you choose, each dessert will delight with an artistic presentation and quickly remedy your sweet cravings.

For more information on Bluffer's Restaurant and special event packages call (416) 264-2337.

For more information on Bluffer's Park Marina services call (416) 266-4556 or visit www.bluffsparkmarina.com. (Page Top)