We have just received word from the Office of Boating Safety of Transport Canada that the Small Vessel Regulation changes we have been writing about have become law. The details of the regulations affecting flare carriage requirements and stand up paddleboards and boat licensing respectively are available in articles in the Boating and Safety section of the website. Check it out!
Transport Canada has officially released the 2026 Safe Boating Guide, updating previous editions to align with new structural amendments to Canadian marine law. - Consider this 75-page manual the definitive A-to-Z reference guide for recreational boaters. It translates dense maritime law—like the Small Vessel Regulations and international Collision Regulations—into clear, actionable safety rules, offering everything from hard legal requirements to basic practical tips for staying alive on the water. - Whether you are an experienced boater with years on the water, or a novice just starting out, this comprehensive guide offers valuable insights, best practices, and crucial regulatory updates for everyone. - The guide is divided into four main areas: - 1. The Legal & Manda
When the weather warms up, there is nothing quite like a day on the water. But if your plans include alcohol or cannabis, it’s critical to understand that Ontario treats drinking and boating exactly the same as drinking and driving. Under the Criminal Code of Canada, a boat is considered a "conveyance," meaning the exact same legal limits, criminal charges, and strict penalties apply whether you are behind the wheel of an SUV or at the helm of a pontoon boat, jet ski, or even a canoe. If you are caught operating a vessel while impaired by alcohol, cannabis, or prescription drugs, here is a breakdown of what you actually face. By the Numbers: OPP Enforcement on the Water Think you won't get caught? The Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) actively patrols our waterways. Data
Lake Michigan-Huron is now 7 inches higher than it was at this time last year. From a month ago, the water levels on Lakes Superior, Michigan-Huron, St. Clair, Erie & Ontario are up 4, 4, 4, 4 & 4 inches, respectively. Lake Superior, Michigan-Huron, St. Clair & Ontario levels are up 6, 7, 2 & 13 inches, respectively, from last year. Lake Erie levels are lower by 1 inch than this time last year. Lake Superior, Michigan-Huron, St. Clair, Erie & Ontario are 3, 3, 6, 5 & 13 inches above their long-term May averages. All the lakes remain well below their May record highs. In a month, Lakes Superior, Michigan-Huron, St. Clair & Erie levels are expected to rise by 3, 2, 1, & 0 inches, respectively. Lake Ontario levels are expected to fall by 2 inch
Lake Michigan-Huron is now 7 inches higher than it was at this time last year. From a month ago, the water levels on Lakes Superior, Michigan-Huron, St. Clair, Erie & Ontario are up 7, 4, 4, 4 & 6 inches, respectively. Lake Superior, Michigan-Huron, St. Clair & Ontario levels are up 5, 7, 2 & 13 inches, respectively, from last year. Lake Erie levels are lower by 2 inches than they were at this time last year. Lake Superior, Michigan-Huron, St. Clair, Erie & Ontario are 2, 2, 6, 3 & 13 inches above their long-term May averages. All the lakes remain well below their May record highs.In a month, Lakes Superior, Michigan-Huron, St. Clair, Erie & Ontario levels are expected to rise by 3, 3, 0, 1 & 0 inches, respectively. Lake Superior’s outflow through