1. Safety First
The first thing to know about boat safety: everyone on board must wear a life jacket. Make sure it’s the right size, and to fully comply with Canadian boating safety regulations, check that the flotation device carries an approval label from Transport Canada, the Canadian Coast Guard, or Fisheries and Oceans Canada. Babies can join you on board, but note that Transport Canada only approves life jackets for babies starting at 20 pounds (9 kg).
A tip: attach a whistle to your children’s neck and teach them to use it to call for help if needed.
Any disaster can be avoided if your boat is equipped with all the necessary safety gear. Consult the canadian Safe Boating Guide for a list of what you need: flashlights, distress flares, ropes, sound signaling devices, radar reflectors. Consider also equipping yourself with safety harnesses to stay connected to your boat in case of a fall. Boat safety belts are also recommended. Always have a first aid kit and an operational and easily accessible fire extinguisher on board.
Before setting off, you must also put your inspector hat on to ensure everything complies with the safety provisions required by law. In Canada, your boat must comply with Part 7 of the Small Vessel Regulations and the Construction Standards for Small Vessels by Transport Canada. Be sure to read the fine print carefully! Before your outings, follow our pleasure craft inspection guide.
2. Clothes Suitable for Boating
What to wear on a boat? Of course, you’ll want to spend the day in a swimsuit! In that case, don't forget a towel, sunscreen, sunglasses, and a cap. But beach gear won’t be enough. Even if the weather forecasts are favorable, it’s better to prepare for unexpected weather: a windbreaker, warm clothes, and a raincoat are essential. Don’t forget to make all necessary checks to ensure you’ve packed all essential clothing before leaving the dock.
3. Food on the Water
“Dad, what’s for lunch?” After a morning of swimming and water games, this question will inevitably arise. You’ll need to think of all the details, starting with food preservation. It’s recommended to avoid cardboard packaging that can soften from the sea air. Perishable foods should be kept in a fridge, if possible, or in a cooler filled with ice cubes. Remember to place the most frequently used foods on top!
In a canoe, pre-made sandwiches will do, but on a sailboat equipped with a small kitchen, you can prepare simple dishes: composed salads, vegetable rice, stew. Even better: cook the fish the kids just caught!
Your little ones will also want protein snacks: nothing beats baking nut cakes before you leave and wrapping them in plastic wrap. For mom and dad, energy bars will do the trick.
Don’t forget to bring a garbage bag, which you’ll dispose of at the port at the end of the day.
4. Loads of Fun
The kids will soon jump into the water, play Marco Polo, or search for treasures. But they can also have fun learning the basics of navigation with you.
The older or more adventurous ones might try water skiing, parasailing, wakeboarding towed by a boat. On board, card games, coloring books, riddles, and writing a logbook will entertain the whole family. No time for boredom.
5. Important Documents
Of course, your boating license, officially called the Pleasure Craft Operator Card (PCOC), must be in your possession at all times. You’ll have obtained it by passing the online boating exam, ideally after taking a boating course. Also, don’t forget to bring a nautical chart of the area, which will indicate dangerous zones to avoid.
You’ll also need the identification cards of all family members and the boat insurance contract, in case of a control. Our brokers are always at your service for recreational vehicle insurance quotes or personalized advice, so don’t hesitate to contact them!