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As of December 31, 2025, Transport Canada implemented significant updates to the Pleasure Craft Licence (PCL) system. However, there have been no changes to the Pleasure Craft Operator Card requirements for Canadian boaters. Not sure what this means for your next boating trip? Keep reading to find out what each licence is for and what Read more ›
Planning a fishing trip in Ontario? If you plan on using a motorized boat, you’ll need to bring along both your boating and fishing licenses. Let us walk you through the process of obtaining these federal and provincial licenses, so that you can enjoy Ontario’s beautiful waterways legally as soon as the season opens. Read more ›
In most cases, boat registration in Canada is optional. However, most boaters will need to obtain another similar piece of documentation, a Pleasure Craft License (PCL). Let’s take a look at the details. The difference between a Pleasure Craft License and Vessel Registration Getting a Pleasure Craft License is one thing. Registering your boat is Read more ›
Wearing a life jacket is one of the most important elements of boating safety. But in Canada, there is no law that will force you to wear a life jacket while on a boat or near the water. Transport Canada only stipulates that: All boaters must have a life jacket nearby, within easy reach. For Read more ›
Here are some tips and best practices for anchoring your boat correctly so that you don’t damage your boat or accidentally find yourself in a dangerous situation. When should you use your anchor? There are a variety of situations in which you may need to anchor your boat. Let’s take a look at a few Read more ›
If you’re a boater, mariner, or involved in any type of waterway activities, you’ve probably heard of a Notice to Mariners (NOTMAR). But what exactly is a NOTMAR and what is its purpose? What is the purpose of a Notice to Mariners? The main purpose of a NOTMAR is to help ensure the safety of Read more ›
When towing someone behind a boat or personal watercraft, there must be a spotter on board in addition to the vessel operator. The spotter’s job is to keep an eye on the water skier and communicate with them. With the engine noise, distance and other environmental factors, there is no guarantee that the spotter and Read more ›
Carbon monoxide is a colourless, odourless, tasteless gas that cuts off the body’s oxygen supply when inhaled. It can be lethal for those exposed to high concentrations or for long periods of time. Carbon monoxide is a common hazard on vessels, so it’s important for boaters to know what to look out for and how Read more ›
Recreational activities account for 86% of boating deaths in Canada. The Canadian Red Cross has analyzed almost two decades-worth of data on boating deaths in the country to determine the most common risk factors and make recommendations to improve boating safety. Failure to wear a PFD The number one contributing factor to recreational boating deaths Read more ›
The Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP), provincial and municipal police forces and other authorized local authorities enforce boating safety regulations in Canada. Transport Canada’s Office of Boating Safety is responsible for overseeing enforcement activities. The purview of boating law enforcement officers Officers enforcing boating safety regulations are authorized to: Stop, board and inspect a vessel Read more ›
