Water safety planning for new boat owners

If you’re planning to get out on the water this boating season, these steps will help you do it safely.   

• learn cold water survival skills 
• have pre-departure and equipment checklists—and use them
• begin each boating season with an annual spring routine that includes: 
  • cleaning, 
  • inspecting,  
  • and repairing your watercraft  

Maximize your enjoyment and minimize your risk on the water during boating season. 

Preparing for boating season as a new boat owner

Congratulations on your choice to become a boat owner. On behalf of the millions of Canadian boaters you’ll be joining on the water this year, welcome. As a Canadian boat owner, there’s so much to explore.  

With almost 9% of our country covered in fresh water, there’s great boating in every province and territory. Whether your plans include paddling, sailing, or cruising, make boating safety your top priority. 

The best way for you to increase your safety skills on the water is to:  

• Consider taking a boating safety course to refresh your knowledge of best practices and potential hazards. 
• Review your owner’s manual to familiarize yourself with your watercraft’s features, maintenance guidelines, and safety precautions. 

Ready to insure your new vessel?

Our team of boat and marine experts are here to help.  

We’ll work with you to make sure you have the best insurance for your boating needs—on and off the water. 

Request a Quote

Want to learn more about marine insurance before talking to a broker?

This quick reference explains how boat and marine insurance helps protect you and your investment. 

You’ll get:

• definitions of marine insurance policy terminology
• an understanding of boat insurance coverages and what they help protect you against

Understanding Boat & Marine Insurance

When you’re ready to find the best boat insurance for your needs, our experts can help.  

Budgeting for your first boating season

When you’re planning your boat purchase, it's important to budget for more than your new vessel.  

Your budget for the first year as a boat owner should include: 

• marine insurance 
• safety essentials 
• navigation and communication tools 

Learn cold water safety—it could save your life

While the air may feel warm at the start of boating season, water temperatures this time of year remain dangerously cold.  

Even minor boating accidents and mishaps on the water can be fatal. Being prepared could save your life. 

Research shows that cold water immersion poses severe risks, regardless of:  

• swimming ability,  
• experience,  
• or proximity to shore.  

Wearing a lifejacket or personal floatation device (PFD) greatly improves your chances of survival in cold water. 

A PFD or lifejacket will: 

• protect you against the cold 
• help you float if you end up in the water

Did you know that in Canada, most recreational boating deaths result from not wearing lifejackets properly—or not wearing one at all?

To find out how to choose the right lifejackets for yourself and your passengers, visit Transport Canada’s online resource for choosing lifejackets and PFDs. 

Get yourself a free pleasure craft courtesy check

Transport Canada collaborates with different boating safety organizations across Canada to offer free courtesy checks for boats.  

A trained boating safety volunteer will inspect your watercraft and safety equipment. They’ll tell you if they think there are potential safety issues with your boat and let you know what the standard is.  

This service helps to make the water safer for all boaters. They do not give out fines or tickets.  

If your boat meets safety standards, you’ll receive a Safety Inspection Sticker. 

Learn more about requesting a pleasure craft courtesy check through Transport Canada. 

Create pre-departure checklists and use them

As part of your boating safety preparations, you’ll need to have checklists that you refer to before you set out on the water.  

Your pre-departure boating safety checks should include a review of your: 

• Watercraft Condition Checklist 
• Equipment Checklist 
• Preparedness Checklist 

Making these checklists and using them before going out on your boat will help make your time on the water safer and more enjoyable this season. 

Don’t forget, operating a vessel that is not seaworthy is against the law.  

Your watercraft, its engine, and equipment must be well-maintained and in proper working order. To learn more about the rules on the water, review Transport Canada’s Safe Boating Guide. 

Boating safety: watercraft condition checklist

• Inspect the hull for cracks or damage. 
• Check the electrical, fuel, propulsion, and cooling systems. 
• Ensure the throttle and steering function properly. 
• Verify oil and fuel levels—many boaters get stranded when they run out of fuel. A good general rule to remember is: one-third to go, one-third to return, and one-third for reserve. 
• Inspect hoses and lines for leaks or cracks and replace them if necessary. 
• Secure all clamps and belts, ensuring they are in good condition. 
• Clean and inspect spark plugs, replacing them if needed. 
• Check and replace oil and water filters if necessary. 
• Test the battery’s charge. 
• Ensure the drainage plug is in place. 
• Distribute the load of gear and passengers evenly to prevent instability. 

Boating safety: equipment checklist

• Confirm that there are enough lifejackets or PFDs of appropriate size for everyone on board.  

Each lifejacket will be labelled on the inside with size and weight capacity. 

• Inspect lifejackets for damage, including to: 
  • zippers,  
  • buckles,  
  • fabric,  
  • and seams. 
• Ensure your VHF radio is functional. 
• Pack a first aid kit, basic tools, and spare parts. 

Boating safety: preparedness checklist

• Carry maps, charts, and a compass. 
• Check the latest weather forecast. 
• Be aware of local hazards and boating restrictions. 
• File a trip plan with a trusted person, providing details about your route and return time. 
• Brief guests on where to find and how to use communication and safety equipment. 

Protect yourself and your watercraft with the right insurance

Before you set out on the water this season, be sure you have the marine insurance coverage you need. 

Our expert marine insurance brokers are boaters too. 

We understand what you need to help keep you protected on and off the water. 

Discover expert service that revolves around you—call or complete our online quote request form. 

Call Now

Request a Quote

For more information on safe recreational boating, contact the Office of Boating Safety or consult the Transport Canada Safe Boating Guide. 

Sources: 

Transport Canada