Canada - Documents
Documents Required for Cruising in Canada
Proof of Competency:
There is “officially” a requirement for the skipper to hold a Certificate of Competence. Proof of competency is required with all motor types (including electric trolling motors) and even when the motor is not in use (such as when sailing).
However, proof of competency is not required if the boat is being operated in the waters of Nunavut or the Northwest Territories.
It is also not required by visitors to Canada if operating the boat he/she brought into Canada for less than 45 consecutive days.
See the Transport Canada website for more details.
Fishing:
Fishing licences are required if you want to fish recreationally in any of Canada’s maritime or inland waterways.
Some areas may also be closed to fishing for many reasons, including for conservation purposes.
For more information on Recreational Fishing Regulations and Licence requirements and to check if the spot you’re interested in falls in a restricted fishing area, consult the Fisheries and Oceans Canada website.
Last updated: June 2024
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Note – CANADA has some very specific and different VHF channels and you will need to be sure your VHF radio can access them.
Example: Channel 21B, and 83B provide Continuous Marine Broadcast (CMB) service (in English)
Most VHFs can switch between USA/International and Canada (check your manual). For more specific details check out this helpful site: https://www.boat-ed.com/canada/studyGuide/VHF-Marine-Radio-Channels/101199_116029/
Link to Waterways guide / Lakes loop is not working
This should do it.. https://www.waterwayguide.com/knowledge-center/news-post/3895/Choosing-your-Great-Loop-route-Atlantic-to-Great-Lakes,
As of early June, Canada Border Services has placed a temporary hold on Shelburne, Nova Scotia as a port of entry
The latest information we have (as of 9 June, 2020) is that Newfoundland has closed its borders indefinitely including for citizens of Canada. See https://www.noonsite.com/place/canada/formalities#biosecurity-section for updates.
Quebec City marina
The best advice is to contact the Canadian Reporting station and ensure that your passports are properly stamped on departure and to have all your official boat papers (including insurance) in order. The USA Customs & Border Protection (CBP) service does not normally issue a zarpe for boats leaving their shores and, conversely, does not appear to expect one on those arriving either.
I have a British-flagged vessel and will be leaving Canada for the US in May. I can find no reference anywhere on Transport Canada, or elsewhere, of ‘outbound clearance’ requirements. I am familiar with the entry requirements for the US… Is there a zarpe or equivalent, in order to leave Canada?
Regarding pepper spray: bear spray is fine. There is a size limitation and it to be designed for use with bears (it’s all in the labelling).