OPP has fielded complaints related to boats operating at high rates of speed near public beach areas and operating boats at a high rate of speed that puts both swimmers and other vessel occupants at risk.
A province wide-shoreline speed restriction of 10 km/h within 30 meters of shore is in effect whether posted or not. Exceptions include:
- Towing where the boat is heading on a 90-degree angle from the shoreline
- Rivers less than 100m wide, as well as canals and buoyed channels
- Areas where Transport Canada-approved speed limits are already in place
An operator must be aware of their surroundings and know the consequences of their boat wake such as:
- Adverse effect on the operation of other vessels (smaller or restricted in their ability to manoeuvre)
- Those enjoying other water activities, swimming, fishing, etc.…
- Erosion of shorelines and destruction to wildlife habitat
- Damage to moored boats and docks
Operating in a dangerous manner is operating a pleasure craft or any water skis, surfboard, water sled, or other towed device in a manner that causes danger to the public given the nature and condition of the waters and the activities that may reasonably be expected to occur at that time.
Do not:
- Buzz other boats or PWCs.
- Try to spray swimmers with the wake from your pleasure craft.
- Cut in front of or try to jump the wake of other boats or PWCs.
Vessel operators have many responsibilities when travelling on waterways including having a valid Pleasure Craft Operator Card, as well as all necessary safety equipment required by law for the style and size of their vessel including approved personal flotation device or lifejacket, appropriate for their size for all on board the vessel.\
Impaired boating is impaired driving. Operating a boat while under the influence of alcohol or drugs is an offence under the Criminal Code of Canada. There is no difference between impaired driving and impaired boating in the eyes of the Criminal Code of Canada.
For more information on boat safety, equipment requirements for your boat and recreational boating laws visit: www.boatingsafety.gc.ca
