Operators of a pleasure craft, which is described as a boat fitted with a motor and is used for recreational purposes, must carry a pleasure craft Operators Competency card at all times. Obtaining an Operator Competency card is the law and anyone without it could be subject to penalties and fines. The legislation is being implemented over a period of ten years. There will be three stages:

• Commencing September 15, 1999 all operators born after April 1, 1983 have to have their certificate.
• Commencing September 15, 2002 all operators who own a craft less than four meters in length must have their certificate.
• Commencing September 15, 2009 all operators must have their certificate.

This legislation applies to all Canadian pleasure craft operators. It also applies to non-residents of Canada whose pleasure craft is in Canada more than 45 consecutive days. If the non-resident has obtained an operator card or equivalent by their state or country, it will be considered proof of competency. For residents, proof of competency can take three forms.

1. The operator has proof of having taken a boating safety course prior to April 1, 1999.
2. The operator has successfully completed, with a grade of 75% or higher, a Canadian Coast Guard accredited exam.
3. The operator has completed a rental-boat safety checklist for power-driven rental boats.

Once obtained the card is valid for life. When preparing for the exam you can take a course by correspondence, over the Internet or you can obtain a training manual from an accredited organization. If you are already familiar with the information covered then you can just write the exam.

Entering Canada by Boat

When coming into Canada by boat, the captain must go directly to a designated Canadian Customs station. For convenience, most marinas can assist, having instructions and posted toll-free numbers (1-800-265-5633, 24 hours a day). Visitors need to have their boat license and registration, as well as the full names, citizenship, birthdates and addresses of all people on board the vessel. If visitors are boating in Canada for more than 45 consecutive days, they must have a Pleasure Craft Operators Competency Card.

Renting a Water Craft or Vessel in Canada

When leasing a motorized pleasure craft or a personal watercraft (PWCs), the person must be over sixteen. Personal floatation devices (PFDs) must be worn and some proof of competency must be given. This is usually in the form of instruction given by the owner/operator. A dockside checklist must be completed, which includes:

1. how to operate the pleasure craft,
2. the fundamental boating safety rules, and
3. the geographic features and hazards in the area of operation.

The rental service must have the vessel in good working order and have all necessary equipment on board.

Laws, Regulations and Suggestions

It is a criminal offence in Canada to:

• operate a vessel dangerously,
• be impaired when operating the vessel,
• tow waterskiers incorrectly,
• fail to stop at the scene of an accident, and
• operate a vessel that is not seaworthy.

It is also illegal to dump petroleum products or waste into Canadian waters. Sewage must be pumped out at an appropriate facility. In regards to speed limits, some may be posted, others not. Please refer to the Transport Canada Office of Boating Safety for this and other information.

It is strongly recommended that a sail plan is registered with the Canadian Coast Guard Marine Communications and Traffic Services Centre, regardless of the length of the journey or the water vessel used, from canoe to motorized craft. This can be done by telephone, radio or in person. Once the voyage is over, remember to deactivate the plan.