Boating Safety

At Toronto Search and Rescue – Marine, we are always ready to respond — but the best way to stay safe is to be prepared before you leave the dock. Responsible boating means knowing your vessel, understanding the laws, and equipping yourself and your passengers with the knowledge and tools needed to enjoy the water safely.

Before You Head Out

Start every trip with these basics:

  • Check the weather and marine forecast.

  • Inspect your vessel and confirm all safety equipment is onboard.

  • File a float plan with someone on shore, including your route, destination, and expected return time.

  • Wear a lifejacket (PFD) — the majority of boating fatalities involve someone not wearing one.

  • Stay sober — boating under the influence of alcohol or drugs is illegal and dangerous.

  • Carry your certifications:

    • Pleasure Craft Operator Card (PCOC)

    • Powered Vessel Operator's Permit (if operating in Toronto Harbour)

Don't Drink and Boat

Ontario's boating laws mirror those for driving. Operating a boat while impaired by alcohol or drugs carries the same penalties as impaired driving — including fines, license suspensions, and possible jail time.

Key Facts:

  • Legal BAC limit: 0.08%

  • Alcohol is only permitted on boats with sleeping, cooking, and toilet facilities, and only when docked or anchored.

  • Passengers may still face charges for public intoxication or open alcohol violations.

Toronto Harbour Regulations

Toronto Harbour is a uniquely regulated waterway, home to commercial ports, an airport, clubs, ferries, and fragile ecosystems.

Important Rules:

  • Harbour Card (Powered Vessel Operator's Permit) is mandatory.

  • Speed Limits:

    • Within 150m of shore: 10 km/h (~5 knots)

    • Beyond 150m: 19 km/h (~10 knots)

    • No wake zones include lagoons, marinas, ferry routes, and anchorages.

  • Right of Way: Always yield to commercial ships, ferries, sailboats, and float planes.

  • Restricted Zones: Stay clear of airport zones (white buoys), swim areas, and clearly marked exclusion zones.

    • Violations may result in significant fines or criminal charges.

Toronto Police Marine Unit actively patrols these waters. Chart #2085 is recommended for navigation.

Minimum Required Equipment

All pleasure craft must carry minimum safety equipment based on size and type. Here's what most boats must have on board:

  • Lifejackets/PFDs – One per person, Canadian-approved, properly sized

  • Buoyant Heaving Line – 15m (49 ft)

  • Reboarding Device – Required if freeboard is over 0.5m

  • Manual Propelling Device or Anchor – With 15m of line

  • Bailer or Bilge Pump

  • Sound-Signaling Device – Whistle or horn

  • Watertight Flashlight or 3 Flares (Type A, B, or C)

  • Navigation Lights – For operation in low visibility

  • Magnetic Compass – Required for vessels over 8m or operating out of sight of navigation aids

  • Fire Extinguisher – Required for boats with inboard engines or fuel systems

  • Radar Reflector – For certain non-metallic vessels

🔎 For full details, see Transport Canada's Safe Boating Guide (PDF)

Getting Your Harbour Card

To operate a powered vessel in Toronto Harbour, you must:

  1. Obtain a temporary permit

  2. Complete a multiple-choice knowledge test and short practical test within 30 days

  3. Apply through PortsToronto or an approved course provider like Boaterskills.ca

  • Cost: $30

  • Age: 14+

  • Valid for: 1–2 years

  • Required in addition to the Pleasure Craft Operator Card (PCOC)

For more information go to PortsToronto's website

Helpful Resources

Final Thought

Boating should be fun — and safe. With the right knowledge, preparation, and equipment, you'll not only protect yourself and others, but you'll help ensure our shared waters remain safe for everyone.

Stay safe. Stay smart. See you on the water.