In Canada, all authorized authorities such as the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) and local police forces are responsible for enforcing the boating safety laws outlined in the Canada Marine Act. They can monitor your boating activity, as well as inspect the vessel if needed to ensure you are following the law. Different infractions, such as boating without your Pleasure Craft Operator Card (PCOC) or not having a spotter for individuals being towed, are all subject to different fines which can vary province to province. Here is a list of the infractions and their respective fines in the province of Manitoba.
- Operating a vessel while underage – $250
- Violating horsepower restrictions – $250
- No proof of competency on board (aka, no PCOC or boat license) – $250
- Careless boating – $350
- Driving a personal watercraft (PWC) under the age of 16 – $250
- PWCs include: Sea-doos, water scooters, boater cycles, Jet Skis, and WaveRunners
- Boating with inoperative or inaccessible equipment – $200
- Unsafe boating – $500
- No Canadian-approved life-jacket or PFD on board – $200
- NOTE: This fine is applied to each individual on board who does not have an approved flotation device. If all three of your passengers do not have PFDs, the fine is multiplied by three.
- No spotter watching persons in tow – $250
- No extra seats for persons in tow – $250
Boating is all about having fun, so make sure you keep peace of mind by ensuring that you are always following the rules and regulations surrounding boating in your province. It is always a good idea to contact your local authorities if you have any questions or concerns about the laws or boating regulations in your area. Take a Transport Canada approved boating safety course so you can learn how to safely and successfully boat in your province – without fines! Become a certified boater today.