Toronto Search and Rescue – Marine

Run by volunteers, ready to help

Welcome to Toronto Search and Rescue – Marine (TSAR-Marine) — a volunteer-run, professionally trained marine SAR (Search and Rescue) unit operating on Lake Ontario. We are committed to safeguarding lives, supporting distressed vessels, and promoting boating safety across Toronto's waterfront and beyond.

About Us

Who We Are & What We Do: Formed by dedicated mariners, first responders, and civilian volunteers, Toronto Search and Rescue – Marine was created in response to the growing need for well-organized, community-based marine emergency services in the GTA. Our crews undergo rigorous winter and in-season training, operate under a structured chain of command, and use standardized protocols that align with the Canadian Coast Guard Auxiliary and industry best practices.

From ice-cold winter man-overboard drills to onboard trauma simulations aboard TSAR 2, our operations are rooted in preparation, professionalism, and public service. We're proud to serve as a key link in the local emergency response network. Learn more

Lake Ontario SAR

Your Safety on the Water Is Our Mission: Our trained crews respond to distress calls, marine emergencies, and search and rescue missions throughout Toronto's waterfront. Learn more

Boating Safety

Educate. Prevent. Protect: We believe prevention is the first step to safety. Explore our safety resources, checklists, and public outreach programs. Get more information about how to stay safe this summer!

Join Us

Step Up. Save Lives. Strengthen Your Skills: Joining TSAR-Marine means joining a dedicated family of volunteers who train hard, serve with purpose, and support each other. New recruits are welcomed into structured onboarding, including winter classroom training, onboard drills, and specialized safety and medical skills programs. From deck crew to rescue leads, our volunteers are trained to operate with professionalism and precision. Apply now

Blog

Field Notes, Crew Stories & Rescue Recaps: Explore updates from the water and behind-the-scenes insights from training, public events, and real SAR missions. Learn more about:

T-SAR’s All-Female Crew Joins Epic Dragon Boat Crossing of Lake Ontario for a Worthy Cause

20/06/2025

This morning, Toronto Search and Rescue Marine (T-SAR) proudly mustered an all-female crew aboard TSAR 2 to meet and escort a truly remarkable mission—a historic dragon boat crossing of Lake Ontario. The event marks the first time an all-women's dragon boat team has paddled the open water route from Niagara-on-the-Lake to Toronto.

New no boating zone off Hanlan's point

03/06/2025

Toronto boaters and beachgoers alike will notice new changes at Hanlan's Point Beach this summer aimed at making the waterfront safer and more enjoyable for everyone.

T-SAR on Breakfast Television

15/05/2025

Everything You Need to Know About Boating Safety This Summer: On May 15, 2025, Toronto Search and Rescue Marine (T-SAR) was featured live on Breakfast Television to help kick off the summer season with a vital message: boating safety saves lives.

Based on the Toronto Waterfront – Serving Lake Ontario

From early spring through late fall — and throughout the off-season — TSAR-Marine remains active, trained, and ready to respond. With a focus on prevention, safety, and rapid response, we are proud to serve Toronto's boating community.

Our Mission

To provide timely, effective marine search and rescue services, support public safety, and strengthen Toronto's readiness on Lake Ontario.

We are powered by volunteers, guided by standards, and driven by purpose.