Over 10 million boaters enjoy Canada’s waterways each year. All boaters should be knowledgeable of, and abide by, the Collision Regulations and use common sense and courtesy while underway. Never c...

Marine Environment and Environmental Responsibility It is illegal to pollute Canadian waterways and marine environment. Always use caution when refuelling and be sure not to spill excess fuel into the...

Local Forecasts Understanding weather and water conditions is vital to boating safely. You should always check the local weather forecast to obtain current, relevant information before heading out on...

Maintaining your Boat There’s nothing more enjoyable than a day on the water. Don’t let it get spoiled by a breakdown. As a responsible boater, you should always plan ahead and properly maintain...

Towing Towing a water-skier, wakeboarder, kneeboarder or other towable device requires the use of a spotter. A spotter is a person who observes the person being towed at all times. The spotter notifie...

What is a Compliance Notice? The Small Vessel Regulations require all pleasure craft that are less than 24 m in length and that are, or can be fitted with a motor, to have a Compliance Notice (boats l...

Transport Canada’s Boat Registration Requirements Boat Registration is different from Vessel Licensing in that it provides proof of ownership (legal title), a unique name and official ...

What are My Responsibilities? As a boat operator in Canada you are legally responsible for equipping yourself, your passengers and your boat with the right equipment. You are also responsible for oper...

Certain distress equipment is required to be carried onboard pleasure craft at all times. This is so that you have it in the event of an emergency situation like a collision, a medical emergency or a ...

Navigation equipment (like sound signals and navigation lights) are required on all boats in Canada. Their purpose is to attract the attention of other boaters and to aid with navigation on the water....