The Great Bras d'Or is a saltwater strait, part of the larger Bras d'Or Lake system, which connects to the North Atlantic Ocean. It separates Boularderie Island from the mainland of Cape Breton Island. The water is brackish, with salinity levels lower than the open ocean. A key public access point for paddlers is the Ross Ferry Marine Park, located on the mainland shore. This park features a boat launch and a refurbished wharf. Launching here may involve a pay-what-you-can donation to support the park. The park also offers amenities like picnic areas and walking trails. The channel provides stunning views, and the surrounding area is an idyllic, scenic setting. The tidal range within the strait is reduced due to the restricted connection to the ocean. The waterway is navigable for larger vessels, as indicated by a pilot boarding station, suggesting paddlers should be alert to potential boat traffic, especially near the channel. The coastline features a mix of pebble beaches and forested shores, with properties offering views down the channel. The area is part of the traditional Mi'kmaq territory of Unama'ki, and the lake system holds cultural significance. Paddlers should be prepared for the exposed nature of a coastal channel, considering wind and wave fetch, particularly as the location is only five miles from the open Atlantic.