Transport Canada’s Office of Boating Safety is responsible for overseeing regulations, standards and policies, enforcement and technical services for recreational vessels. It encourages safe boating practices and compliance with regulations.
Have your say on boating safety
Find ongoing consultations on boating safety and other marine safety issues. Give us your feedback and make your voice heard.
Buying a pleasure craft
Before buying a pleasure craft, you must apply for a pleasure craft license. Learn more about being a responsible boat owner and proper manufacturing for your vessel.
Preparing to operate your vessel
Learn about obtaining or replacing your Pleasure Craft Operator Card (PCOC). For lost or destroyed cards, you can use the new Course Provider Lookup tool to find your course provider information and request a replacement. You can also learn about pre-departure checklists, courtesy checks, trip plans, and checking the water and weather conditions to ensure you're prepared to head out on the water.
Lifejackets
Choosing the right life jacket or Personal Floatation Device (PFD) is very important for keeping you and your onboard guests safe. Find tips on choosing the right one for adults and children.
Rental Boats
Learn the best practices for rental boat safety, whether you are renting the boat or renting to the public.
Speed and impaired boating
Don't mix speed, alcohol, or other substances with boating. Remember that you are responsible for the safety of your guests and others using the waterway. You must always be prepared and alert, as conditions on the water can change quickly.
Boating safety resources
Find downloadable and printable resources related to boating safety.
Boating safety app
Getting ready for a boat ride? Make sure to download the Discover Boating app on your smartphone. It gives you information about the key rules, guidelines and best practices that will help you and your family stay safe on water.
Contact us
Your comments and concerns relating to Pleasure Craft are important to us and we will address them as quickly as possible. Contact the Office of Boating Safety.
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Some of the information on this page has been provided by external sources. The Government of Canada is not responsible for the accuracy, reliability or currency of the information supplied by external sources. Users wishing to rely upon this information should consult directly with the source of the information. Content provided by external sources is not subject to official languages, privacy and accessibility requirements.
Related links
- Is my boat a pleasure craft or non-pleasure craft? (canada.ca)
- Marine Safety Transport Publications (TPs)
- Marine safety equipment and training initiative
- Abandoned boats and wrecks
- Boating Safety Contribution Program
- Sharing the Waterways
- Sources of Police Enforcement Authorities under the CSA 2001
- Tier I - Policy – Acceptance of Electronic Visual Distress Signals in lieu of Pyrotechnic Distress Signals on pleasure craft