Pleasure Craft Licensing
A pleasure craft licence is the number placed on the sides of each recreational vessel as required under the Small Vessel Regulations of the Canada Shipping Act. All recreational vessels under 15 gross tons (12 metres or less) and powered by an engine 10 horsepower (7.5 kilowatts) or more must be licensed or registered, regardless of where they operate in Canada. The licence number is used to assist law enforcement in identifying each individual pleasure craft. The system also allows Search and Rescue personnel to access the information 24 hours a day, 7 days a week in the event of an emergency.
It’s very easy to get your pleasure craft licence for your boat. You just need to mail-in the required forms and information (address and details are on the form). You can get your pleasure craft application kit online at www.boatingsafety.gc.ca, or at a Service Canada Centre. To find the nearest Service Canada Centre use this link or call 1 800 O-Canada (1 800 622-6232). Your boat dealer may also be able to help you with this process, so be sure to ask your dealer. Here is a link to the information page from the Office of Boating Safety that explains the details you need to know.
Insurance
Boat insurance varies by boat length and type, by the cost of the boat and the level of coverage you want. Consult your insurance agent for quotes or compare rates online. Some smaller boats can be insured for a nominal sum as a rider on a homeowner's policy.
You can reduce the cost of marine insurance premiums by taking a boater's education course.
