OLYMPIC BASIN
PARC JEAN-DRAPEAU, MONTREAL, CANADA

Located in the heart of Parc Jean-Drapeau on Île Notre-Dame, the Montreal Olympic Basin is a world-class rowing and paddling venue and one of the few facilities in North America designed to meet international competition standards. Originally developed for the 1976 Olympic Games, the basin continues to play a key role in high-performance training and major sporting events.

Extending over 2.2 km in length and 110 m in width, the basin provides optimal conditions for rowing, sprint canoeing, and kayaking. Its long, linear geometry, combined with natural protection from prevailing winds, helps maintain calm and consistent water conditions—an essential factor for fair and accurate competition results. Montreal’s climate, characterized by significant seasonal variations, was a defining factor in the design of the floating infrastructure.

The project includes floating docks designed in accordance with FISA rules and specifications, ensuring safety, stability, and efficient circulation for athletes, coaches, and technical staff. The system is adjustable to accommodate different events, using rails that allow for various starting gate alignments. To accommodate harsh winter conditions, the floating docks are fully removed during the winter season and reinstalled in spring. This seasonal approach enhances durability, protects the structures from ice-related stress, and ensures long-term performance.

A flexible anchoring system using chains and concrete deadweights allows the docks to adapt to water movements while maintaining excellent stability. The grey composite decking provides a durable, non-slip surface with low maintenance requirements.

Installed between 2013 and 2014, the Montreal Olympic Basin project demonstrates a tailored solution that meets the needs of multiple sports disciplines while integrating seamlessly into the iconic natural setting of Parc Jean-Drapeau.