Who We Are
Unit 535 – Toronto Search and Rescue (T-SAR) – Marine is a 100% volunteer-based marine search and rescue organization serving the Toronto waterfront and Lake Ontario. We are proud members in good standing of the Canadian Coast Guard Auxiliary (CCGA), operating within District 1.
Our unit was officially incorporated in July 2012 following the dissolution of the former CCGA Ashbridge's Bay unit. We attained charitable status in 2013 and became formally recognized by the CCGA in 2014. On June 11, 2015, our crew conducted its first operational patrol aboard the TSAR 2 rescue vessel, departing from Cathedral Bluffs.
Today, we operate out of Outer Harbour Marina in Toronto, giving us a strategic base of operations to respond quickly and effectively to incidents on the water.
Mission: To conduct marine Search and Rescue (SAR) operations throughout the boating season and to promote marine safety education.
Vision: A waterfront where everyone can enjoy water-based activities with confidence, supported by a strong culture of safety and preparedness.
What We Do
T-SAR is a vital volunteer asset within the Joint Rescue Coordination Centre (JRCC) emergency response network. We are tasked with responding to distress calls received via channel 16 on VHF or *16 from mobile phones and working alongside the Canadian Coast Guard, Toronto Police Marine Unit, Toronto Fire Services and other Canadian Coast Guard Auxiliary Units.
We actively patrol the waters of Lake Ontario, from the Scarborough Bluffs to Humber Bay, and as far south as the Canada–USA border. Our responsibilities include:
Rescue Operations
Medical Response
Towing and Dewatering
Vessel Assist and Scene Support
We are ready 24/7—day or night. When needed, we are prepared to respond anywhere on Lake Ontario.
The Vessel
Our vessel, TSAR 2, is a 28-foot Pursuit Offshore boat designed for demanding conditions and versatile SAR operations. She is equipped to handle a wide range of scenarios, including:
Medical emergencies
Towing disabled vessels
Dewatering (removing water from flooded boats)
Night-time search operations
To support these missions, TSAR 2 is outfitted with advanced technology, including radar, night vision, and robust marine communication systems. Our crew actively maintains and drills with this equipment to ensure peak operational readiness.
Track our movement
Our Crew
Toronto Search and Rescue – Marine is made up entirely of volunteers from diverse backgrounds. Our team includes software engineers, students, off-duty paramedics, police officers, firefighters, tradespeople, and marine enthusiasts.
Some join with professional experience in emergency response; others come with a passion to serve. Regardless of background, every volunteer undergoes structured training in marine operations, emergency medical care, vessel handling, and communication protocols.
We believe that training builds confidence—and confident responders save lives.
Training & Readiness
TSAR maintains year-round training programs, including winter classroom sessions and on-water summer drills. Led by experienced officers and specialists, our exercises are hands-on, scenario-based, and focused on the realities of marine emergencies.
Through continuous education and operational practice, our crews remain sharp, safe, and ready to respond.
Why We Serve
Our commitment is simple: to save lives on the water and support our community through public safety. We do this because we care—about people, about preparedness, and about building a safer waterfront for everyone.
Support our Mission
Are you passionate about the water and driven to make a difference? Whether you're an experienced boater or just eager to learn, there's a place for you at TSAR. We provide the training—you bring the dedication.
