about boating in canada

7/31/2019 About Boating in Canada

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Choosing Between Power and Sail

Knowing the RopesYOUR FIRST BOAT TRIP

Maintaining GoodRelationships Onboard

Get Your PleasureCraft Operator CardDEADLINE: SEPTEMBER 15, 2009

Taking the PlungeBuying YourFirst Boat


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Dogs need weekends, too.

See how easy it is to get started boating

with your free DVD atDiscoverBoating.ca.
http://discoverboating.ca/http://discoverboating.ca/http://discoverboating.ca/http://discoverboating.ca/


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3

Welcome to Discover Boating!

TABLE OF CONTENTS

4 The One Manual Boating Couples Really Need

(for maintaining good relationships)

8 Taking the Plunge: Tips on Buying Your First Boat

12 Knowing the Ropes

16 Power vs. Sail

18 Joining a Yacht Club or Marina

22 The Pleasure Craft Operator Card

About Discover BoatingDiscover Boating is a public awareness effort managedby NMMA Canada on behalf of the Canadian recre-ational boating industry. Discover Boating programsfocus on increasing participation and creating interestin recreational boating by demonstrating the benefits,affordability and accessibility of the boating lifestylewhile helping to educate potential boaters and offering

opportunities to experience the fun and togethernessof being on the water in a boat. Each year morethan 6 million people in Canada enjoy boating, therecreational activity that connects like no other.

To find out more, visit DiscoverBoating.ca or contactDiscover Boating Program Manager, Tracey Hart at905-951-4057 or at [email protected].

Discover Boating Board MembersTerry Conrad Conrad Marine Sales & ServiceScott MacCrimmon Ed Huck MarineDave Barnier Erieau MarinaAdrian Rushforth Mercury MarineRoy Baird Taylor PublishingChris Goulder Volvo Penta

Alan Stovell Western MarineGreg Alcock Woodlake MarineRick Layzell Yamaha CanadaYves Paquette Association Maritime

du QuebecPat Nelder Atlantic Marine

Trades AssociationWayne Yamauchi BC Marine Trades AssociationJim Flood Mid-Canada Marine

Dealers AssociationAl Donaldson Ontario Marine Operators

AssociationCyndi Hodgson Ontario Marine Operators

Association

Sara Anghel NMMA CanadaLinda Waddell NMMA Canada

Discover Boating StaffCarl Blackwell NMMATracey Hart NMMA Canada

Publisher

Discover Boating Canadac/o National Marine Manufacturers Association14 McEwan Drive West, Unit #8Bolton, Ontario L7E 1H1

Tel: 905-951-0009Fax: 905-951-0018

Managing Editor

Elizabeth Kerr, Kerrwil Publications Limited

Contributors

Peter Garapick, Ian Gilson, John Kerr,

Ted Rankine, Alan Wendt

Art Director

Allan S. Bates

Discover Boating 2009 was producedin partnership with:

Have you ever watched people out boating on a beautiful day and thoughtI wish that was me out there? Discover Boating can help make it happen!

The purpose of Discover Boating program is simple to help people becomeboaters. Whatever your level of involvement, boating offers activities that every-

one can enjoy.

Boating has never been more affordable and, compared to other leisure andvacation activities, it offers nearly limitless flexibility and fun that lasts all seasonlong. Youll find that boating is about building relationships with family andfriends and creating memories, one weekend at a time. Whether you preferfishing, sailing, water sports or simply cruising with the people you care about boating has something for everyone.

If youre thinking about buying your first boat the DiscoverBoating.ca website isa great place to start your research. It features a wide variety of free tools and

resources. Youll find everything from information on how to get started inboating, to choosing the right boat, to glossaries, activities and destinations.DiscoverBoating.ca really is a fun and easy way to educate yourself aboutboating and all it has to offer you and your family. While online, you can alsoorder your free Get Started in Boating DVD your all-in-one guide to helpyou get out on the water in that new boat.

If youre already hooked on being out on the water, but youd like more infor-mation about new skills you want to develop or different activities you want totry - Discover Boating can help you as well! Want to know about boatingcourses, safety information, boat financing? You name ityou can find the

answers to all your boating questions at Discover Boating.ca.

Visit DiscoverBoating.ca today and find out why life is better with a boat!

See you on the water!

Dave BarnierChairmanDiscover Boating Program
http://discoverboating.ca/mailto:[email protected]://discoverboating.ca/http://discoverboating.ca/http://discoverboating.ca/http://discoverboating.ca/http://discoverboating.ca/http://discoverboating.ca/http://discoverboating.ca/http://discoverboating.ca/http://discoverboating.ca/mailto:[email protected]://discoverboating.ca/


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4 L I F E I S B E T T E R W I T H A B O A T

by Alan WendtA LONG -TIME BOATER SHARES HIS

ADVICE ON WAYS COUPLES CAN

EFFECTIVELY COMMUNICATE

WHILE ONBOARD

THE ONE MANUAL

Boating CouplesReally Need


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Get Ready, Get Set, Go Boating!By Peter Garapick, Canadian Coast Guard

The best part of the title above is the last part Go Boating!But perhaps the most important words are the onesthat make the Go Boating part so enjoyable getting readyand set.

Before leaving the dock, have you reviewed your pre-departure checklist? Are you and the boat ready for a greatday on the water? Here are a few things to consider beforeheading out with your family and friends.

Have you gotten to know your boat? Have you familiarizedyourself with the controls, fuel and oil capacity, where thehull-plug is? Do you have the safety gear on board itemsrequired by law and other things that make sense (i.e.,minor tool kit)? Do you know how many people it can holdand do you have life jackets the right size for everyone?

How about yourself? Have you got your Pleasure CraftOperators Card (PCOC)? Study up, take the test and bethat much more knowledgeable about being safe whilehaving fun on the water. If the boat has a radio, do youknow how to use it properly: do you have you radiooperators certificate?

Before leaving the dock, check the weather forecast andbe sure you and your boat can handle the conditions thatMother-Nature will throw at you. This includes sunscreen,hats and lots of water to drink. File a sail-plan which is let-ting someone know where you are going and when you willbe back and be sure to have charts for the waters on whichyou are going to boat its the only way to know wherenasty rocks are hiding below the surface.

Boating is a great way to spend the warmer months of theyear but it is different than activities on land - and that iswhy it is so much fun. It might take a bit moreplanning, but helping to guarantee a great dayon the water is worth it! Youll find all

the checklists above and more onDiscoverBoating.ca to help get youstarted and safely underway.

KNOW BEFORE YOU GO

5

FIRST-TIME BOATERS can be over-

whelmed by the number of operating

manuals they receive on the day they

finally take delivery of their new boat.

The bigger the boat, the thicker the

briefcase, which contains manuals that

explain everything from how to wire a

bilge pump, to instructions on how toset up your onboard TV remote. The

one manual thats missing, however, is

how the Captain should address the

Admiral (a.k.a. how husbands and

wives should communicate).

How strong is your marriage? The

question lobbed at me by the attrac-

tive blond sprawled out on a beach

towel stopped me dead in thesand. My wife and I were wading

ashore after providing comic relief to

those who watched our fumbling

attempt at anchoring. Yes, this was our

first day of boating and although nei-

ther of us had served in the Navy, our

soon-to-be boating friends would tell

us months later that we both delivered

a string of four letter words thatwouldve made a sailor blush.

Make sure you laugh on the drive

home, was her parting advice. Gayle

would become one of our closest

boating friends in the months ahead.

Her insight helped us create the emo-

tional bonds that husbands and wives

need to smooth over the metaphoric,

storm-tossed seas that boating mar-riages weather.

That first weekend, neither of us said

a word on the hour-long drive home.

By the second weekend, we managed

to find a chuckle at the half way point.

The third week we said our apologies

before leaving the marina. By the way,

that was 20 years ago; we are still

boating and raised two children on thewater, who, as adults, also share the

water gene.

Aside from laughter, nothing beats a

good teacher. Find a boat dealer who

offers hands-on learning for both hus-

band and wife, and not necessarily at

the same time. Generally, husbands

make lousy instructors because they

yell and hog the wheel. Throughouttwo decades, weve observed that

women, when properly taught, are

better at docking than men. They are

patient, not afraid to pull back and try
http://discoverboating.ca/http://discoverboating.ca/


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Nautical TermsABOARD: On or within the boat.ABOVE DECK: On the deck.AFT: Toward the stern of the boat.AGROUND: Touching or fast to the bottom.ANCHORAGE: A place suitable for anchoring in relation tothe wind, seas and bottom.BATTEN DOWN: Secure hatches and loose objects bothwithin the hull and on deck.BEAM: The greatest width of the boat.BEARING: The direction of an object expressed either as atrue bearing as shown on the chart, or as a bearing relativeto the heading of the boat.BELOW: Beneath the deck.BOW: The forward part of a boat.BOW LINE: A docking line leading from the bow.BRIDGE: The location from which a vessel is steered and itsspeed controlled. "Control Station" is really a more appropri-ate term for small craft.BULKHEAD: A vertical partition separating compartments.BUOY: An anchored float used for marking a position on thewater or a hazard or a shoal and for mooring.CAPSIZE: To turn over.CAST OFF: To let go.CHART: A map for use by navigators.CLEAT: A fitting to which lines are made fast. The classiccleat is approximately anvil-shaped.COCKPIT: An opening in the deck from which theboat is handled.COIL: To lay a line down in circular turns.COURSE: The direction in which a boat is steered.CURRENT: The horizontal movement of water.DEAD AHEAD: Directly ahead.DEAD ASTERN: Directly aft.DECK: A permanent coveringover a compartment, hull or anypart thereof.DISPLACEMENT: The weight ofwater displaced by a floating ves-sel, thus, a boat's weight.

Now the good part: Boats force you

to spend time together. Youre in

close quarters; its easy to make eye

contact. Away from the distractions of

home and work, youre more likely to

talk with each other. Marriage coun-selors say this basic intimacy leads to

intimacy! Cue the music from The

Love Boat.

Use the winter to jointly plan summer

boating trips. Your boat offers a mini-

vacation, an escape every weekend.

Boaters are pretty social and shared

dinner parties or cocktails are a rich

tradition. So you dont even have to

leave the dock to enjoy the boat! With

low-cost business cards you can print

at home, create a card with your con-

tact information and boat name to

share with new boating acquaintances.

It could be Gayle calling to say, Were

going to the Seafood Shack for Sundaybrunch; Come join us! Meet you on

VHF Channel 72.

Visit DiscoverBoating.ca to learn more

about some of the great rewards boat-

ing offers families. This online

resource is constantly updated with

new boating activities, destinations

and resources to help in your decision

making process.

General Boating Resource

Discover Boatingwww.discoverboating.ca

Marine Associations

National Marine ManufacturersAssociation Canadawww.nmma.ca

Association Maritime du Quebecwww.nautismequebec.com

Atlantic Marine Trades Associationwww.boatinginatlanticcanada.com

BC Marine Trades Associationwww.bcmta.com

Mid-Canada Marine Dealers Associationwww.midcanadamarinedealers.com

Ontario Marine Operators Associationwww.boating-ontario.comwww.marinasontario.com

Safe Boating Resources

Transport Canada Office ofBoating Safetywww.boatingsafety.gc.ca

Pleasure Craft Operators Card (PCOC)www.tc.gc.ca/marinesafety/debs

/obs/paperwork/paperwork_operator.htm#il

Marine Weather Forecastswww.weatheroffice.ec.gc.ca

Canadian Hydrographic ServiceChart Distribution Officewww.charts.gc.ca

Life Saving Societywww.lifesavingsociety.com

Canadian Safe Boating Councilwww.csbc.ca

Canadian Power & Sail Squadronwww.cps-ecp.ca

Canadian Yachting Associationwww.sailing.ca

Boating Resource Directory

Useful Contacts At A Glance

an approach again whereas men will

muscle the boat into a slip. Thats why

they invented rub rails, right?

Take turns at the helm. Its her boat,

too. Couples that split helm time

find a new respect for each other

and can better anticipate the chal-lenges of wind, tide and how the

boat moves in response to throttle

changes. Besides, her basic survival

instinct wants reassurance that if he

bumps his head, shell know how to

return to land.

Aside from the mechanics, we learned

that a good rehearsal was also the key

to solid teamwork. From launching orcasting off lines at the dock to plan-

ning what to do in the event you run

out of gas (not that I would ever admit

to such an oversight), rehearsing your

steps verbally as a team makes you

better prepared to work in sync.

continued on page 10
http://discoverboating.ca/http://www.discoverboating.ca/http://www.nmma.ca/http://www.nautismequebec.com/http://www.boatinginatlanticcanada.com/http://www.bcmta.com/http://www.midcanadamarinedealers.com/http://www.boating-ontario.com/http://www.marinasontario.com/http://www.boatingsafety.gc.ca/http://www.tc.gc.ca/marinesafety/debs/obs/paperwork/paperwork_operator.htm#ilhttp://www.tc.gc.ca/marinesafety/debs/obs/paperwork/paperwork_operator.htm#ilhttp://www.weatheroffice.ec.gc.ca/http://www.charts.gc.ca/http://www.lifesavingsociety.com/http://www.csbc.ca/http://www.cps-ecp.ca/http://www.sailing.ca/http://www.tc.gc.ca/marinesafety/debs/obs/paperwork/paperwork_operator.htm#ilhttp://www.tc.gc.ca/marinesafety/debs/obs/paperwork/paperwork_operator.htm#ilhttp://discoverboating.ca/http://www.sailing.ca/http://www.cps-ecp.ca/http://www.csbc.ca/http://www.lifesavingsociety.com/http://www.charts.gc.ca/http://www.weatheroffice.ec.gc.ca/http://www.boatingsafety.gc.ca/http://www.marinasontario.com/http://www.boating-ontario.com/http://www.midcanadamarinedealers.com/http://www.bcmta.com/http://www.boatinginatlanticcanada.com/http://www.nautismequebec.com/http://www.nmma.ca/http://www.discoverboating.ca/


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Take your family on a boatingadventure they will

never forget...

Ontario is a boaters paradise with a quarter million lakes, countless rivers and bays. No wonderOntario is known as the best cruising grounds in the world.

Explore a scenic passageway, spend a few days in an isolated anchorage or discover a newwaterfront community - an exciting destination is just a short trip away no matter what directionyour compass is pointed.

Summertime is for making memories. With a boat, family fun is only a splash away. Get out onthe water and make 2009 a summer to remember! Visit boating-ontario.com today to planyour adventure.

www.boating-ontario.com

Contact Boating Ontario to receive your FREE2009 Boating Ontario Directory (marinas & destinations guide) - 705-549-1667
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By Ian Gilson

WHEN SO MANY of the items on

which we spend money have to do

with the day-to-day necessities of

life, its refreshing to consider a pur-chase made purely for pleasure. Like

so many others, youve yearned to

experience the tranquility and sense

of freedom that skippering your own

boat provides. You also want to

build memories of wonderful experi-

ences shared by your whole family.

At the same time, you realize that

this is a purchase best made with

careful planning. Youll find many

resources that can help you navigate

through the process on Discover

Boating.ca under the Buying A Boat

section.

Deciding what type of boat best suits

your familys interests is the first step.The good news is that there is certain-

ly a type and style of boat to suit all

tastes. Sit down with the family and

decide how you would like to use

your boat. Everyone should have a

say! Does your fancy lean to power or

sail? Is the aim to fish, cruise, race,

engage in tow-sports, entertain or all

of the above? How many people

(family/friends) will be aboard at any

one time? How often will you use

your boat and when?

Where you plan to boat is another

consideration of prime importance. If

the aim is to venture to different lakes

and rivers, youll need to factor a trail-er into your purchase and ensure that

your vehicle has sufficient towing

capacity. Also, different styles of boats

are more or less suited to big water

like the ocean or the Great Lakes.

Now that youve thoroughly explored

your wants and needs, product

research becomes the key. A great

deal of useful information is available

Taking the PlungeTIPS ON BUYING YOUR FIRST BOAT
http://discoverboating.ca/http://discoverboating.ca/http://discoverboating.ca/http://discoverboating.ca/


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9

at DiscoverBoating.ca. Of particular

use is the boat selector tool to help

you pare down the types and styles of

boats to a short list that matches your

criteria. Other resources like boat

shows, expert opinions and published

boat reviews should also be sought forthe purpose of selecting the final few.

Many different options exist when it

comes to powering your craft.

Depending on size and style, these can

include outboard, sterndrive, jet-drive,

electric or diesel. The decision

becomes even more complex when

the choice of single or twin-engine

configurations is thrown into the mix.

While your local dealer can help you

sort through the relative attributes of

each, a good rule of thumb when it

comes to horsepower is to favour the

higher end of the maximum limit for

your boat. Though smaller engines

can translate to lower fuel consump-

tion, nothing is more disappointing

than to find out that your new boat

hasnt got the horses necessary to

power your planned activity.Inadequately powered boats are also

often harder to sell once youve decid-

ed to move-up.

Boat prices vary considerably based on

style, construction, make and features.

Unlike vehicles, however, lending

institutions will often permit loans to

be amortized over considerably longer

periods resulting in more affordable

monthly payment amounts. Down-

payment requirements will vary based

on market conditions and other pur-

chase incentives. Often, financing

through institutions familiar with

marine financing will make the

process easy and speed up any time

involved in processing the loan appli-

cation. Dealerships most often have

Inflatable PFD with HIT

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and patented SecureZip closures that withstandthe most rigorous activity. Automatically inflatesupon water immersion or by pulling activationcord, providing 35 lb of buoyancy.
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Nautical TermsDRAFT: The depth of water a boat draws.FENDER: A cushion, placed between boats, or between aboat and a pier, to prevent damage.FLARE: The outward curve of a vessel's sides near the bow.

A distress si gnal.FLOORBOARDS: The surface of the cockpit on which thecrew stand.FORWARD: Toward the bow of the boat.FOULED: Any piece of equipment that is jammed orentangled, or dirtied.GALLEY: The kitchen area of a boat.GANGWAY: The area of a ship's side where people boardand disembark.GEAR: A general term for ropes, blocks, tackle and otherequipment.GUNWALE: The upper edge of a boat's sides.HATCH: An opening in a boat's deck fitted with awatertight cover.HEAD: A marine toilet. Also the upper corner of atriangular sail.HEADING: The direction in which a vessel's bow points atany given time.HEADWAY: The forward motion of a boat. Oppositeof sternway.HELM: The wheel or tiller controlling the rudder.HELMSPERSON: The person who steers the boat.HULL: The main body of a vessel.INBOARD: More toward the centre of a vessel; inside; amotor fitted inside a boat.KEEL: The centreline of a boat running fore and aft; thebackbone of a vessel.KNOT: A measure of speed equal to one nautical mile(6,076 feet) per hour.LATITUDE: The distance north orsouth of the equator measuredand expressed in degrees.LAZARETTE: A storage space in aboat's stern area.LEE: The side sheltered from the wind.LEEWARD: The direction away from thewind. Opposite of windward.

pre-established financing partners and

will handle the administrative tasks.

Ongoing costs also tend to compare

favourably against automobiles in that

many on-water activities dont involverunning the engine continuously. With

sailboats, the engine is run even less.

A variety of insurance coverages are

available each attracting different pre-

miums. A plan that provides full-

replacement coverage in the event of

an accident, though slightly more

costly, is generally preferable.

When considering the various aspects

of your overall purchase, be sure to

consider and plan for where you will

keep your boat when not in use.

Renting a slip in a local marina is an

obvious choice for owners of larger

boats. The convenience of being able

to hop in ones boat and go at whim

often attracts owners of smaller craft

as well. Charges are normally based

on a combination of the amenities

offered and the square footage of thespace occupied by your boat.

Keeping the boat and trailer in your

driveway is the least expensive solu-

tion for in-season storage. (Be sure to

check your local bylaws that may

prohibit this option.)

A variety of off-season storage options

also exist from shrink-wrapped exter-

nal storage to ambient and heated

indoor storage. Pricing for these

options is often based on hull length.

Larger boats occupying covered mari-

na slips are often lifted on slings and

blocked above the waterline during

the off-season. When you are ready tofind the storage solution that works

for you, be sure to talk to a nearby

dealer, marina or yacht club. One of

them will be right for you.

When it comes to whether to buy a

new or pre-owned boat, a number of

items have to be considered. These

include price differential, warranty,

interest rate, depreciation, licensing, as

well as how long you plan to keep

your boat. Whether buying new or

pre-owned, its easier to compare fea-

tures on new boats as alternative mod-

els are readily available for evaluation.

Should you decide to buy a pre-

owned boat, you can enlist the aid of a

broker to help you locate the exact

boat youre looking for in your desired

price range. The brokers fees areborne by the seller and therefore free

to the purchaser. Once youve found

your ideal boat, it is highly advisable

to have a marine survey performed.

(Indeed, your insurance company may

insist on this step as a way of objec-

tively determining the true value of

the boat.) At a cost of $8-$10 per lin-

ear foot, this is an inexpensive way to

ensure that the boat you are about to

purchase doesnt have unforeseen

problems that could cost you dearly to

resolve post-sale. You can find a

marine surveyor near you by visiting

www.marinesurvey.org.

At the point where youve found the

boat of your dreams and youre satis-

fied you have a good grasp on all

related costs, one final step roundsout the process. Where possible, take

the boat out for a test run. Try it out

on the same types of activities that

youll be enjoying on a long-term

basis. If all passes muster, congratula-

tions. You and your family are ready

to embark on an exciting new phase

of your lives. Oh, and dont forget the

camera to record those memories in

the making.


continued from page 6
http://www.marinesurvey.org/http://www.marinesurvey.org/


11/24

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Boating in British Columbia...

Visitwww.bcmta.com

for all your boating needs

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12/24


Knowing the Ropes

By Peter Garapick

SO, YOURE ABOUT to get out on the water for a cruise to the other side of the

lake, across the bay, up the river or perhaps to absolutely nowhere but just to

spend a great day boating. Getting away from it all no snarled up traffic, no

intersections, traffic lights and no lines on roads. On one hand, thats what

makes boating such a great activity pure freedom. On the other hand, how do

you know how to get from A to B if there is just wide open blue water? How do

you know who has right of way if you are coming closer and closer to another

boat? How do you know where the shoals are if they are hiding under the

surface of the water?


13/24

KNOW BEFORE YOU GO

By Ian Gilson

Youve found your ideal first boat, the financing is in placeand you can hardly wait to start enjoying new boating expe-riences with your family and friends. Believe it or not, itsalso great fun for those of us who have been boaters forsome time to watch newcomers discover that same passionfor being on the water.

Much as the Welcome Wagon has for years welcomedfamilies who have recently moved to a new neighbourhood,your new nautical neighbours would likely want to provideyou with a few tips to help ensure that your upcomingadventures are both fun and safe.

Their local knowledge will help safeguard both you andyour family while, at the same time, maximizing your com-fort and enjoyment when out in your boat.

For more information, some excellent

resources are listed on page 6.

13

Boating takes place in its own environ-

ment and with that comes a lot of

signs, symbols and signals that at first

we may not understand but in fact tell

us everything we need to know to get

to where we are going and back again.

You just have to speak the language,

so to speak.

Rules of the Road seems an odd

term for boats on the water, but simi-

lar to cars, boats have prescribed

courses to take when coming into

close proximity with each other. First,

dont! If there is lots of room on the

water, make your course changes early

and obvious show the other boater

where you intend to go so that he orshe can show you where they plan to

go and you all steer clear. If you do

have to pass close to each other, then

pass port-to-port. Sounds foreign

until you learn that port is the nautical

term for left and that is the way we

pass each other on land roads in cars.

Thats easy to remember.

If you are catching up to another

boat and you are going pass them,

you have to keep clear of them. Make

sure they see you before getting too

close and if they arent watching, give

a blast on your horn to get their

attention. Then, leave lots of space as

you pass them. You can do so to

either side as there are no rules for

this as long as there is enough room

for everyone.

It gets a little trickier when you and

another boat are on that proverbial

collision course no one is overtaking

the other and you are not going to

pass in opposite directions; you are

going to end up at the same spot at

the same time coming from different

directions. The rule here is if they are

coming from your right (starboard)

side, they have right of way, that is,

you have to keep clear of them. If they

are coming from somewhere off your

left (port) side, they have to keep clear

of you.

The final rule in any of these cases is

if, for whatever reason the other boat

that is supposed to keep clear of youis not keep clear of them! Reduce

your speed, make a turn, avoid a colli-

sion and continue your enjoyable day

on the water.

Another phrase that is often heard on

the water is Sail over Power! What

this means is that sailboats that are

only under-sail (not using their

engines) have the right of way over allpowered recreational boats. Stay clear

of sailboats and dont forget your wake

regardless of the type of the other boat

getting rocked around by someone

passing too close is never a pleasant

experience.

So if the Rules of the Road help tell

who keeps clear of whom, what tells

boaters where rocks and shoals are

since they are below the surface of the

water? This is where all those buoys

come in red, green, red and green,

yellow and black and even white with

orange symbols! Buoys come in many

different shapes and colours and


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14

Nautical TermsLEEWAY: The sideways movement of the boat caused byeither wind or current.LINE: Rope and cordage used aboard a vessel.LOG: A record of courses or operation. Also, a device tomeasure speed.LONGITUDE: The distance in degrees east or west of themeridian at Greenwich, England.MIDSHIP: Approximately in the location equally distant fromthe bow and stern.MOORING: An arrangement for securing a boat to a mooringbuoy or a pier.NAUTICAL MILE: One minute of latitude; approximately6,076 feet about 1/8 longer than the statute mile of5,280 feet.NAVIGATION: The art and science of conducting a boatsafely from one point to another.OUTBOARD: Toward or beyond the boat's sides. A detach-able engine mounted on a boat's stern.OVERBOARD: Over the side or out of the boat.PILOTING: Navigation by use of visible references, the depthof the water, etc.PLANING: A boat is said to be planing when it is essentiallymoving over the top of the water rather than throughthe water.PORT: The left side of a boat looking forward. A harbour.RUDDER: A vertical plate or board for steering a boat.RUN: To allow a line to feed freely.RUNNING LIGHTS: Lights required to be shown on boatsunderway between sundown and sunup.SATELLITE NAVIGATION: A form of position finding usingradio transmissions from satellites with sophisticatedon-board automatic equipment.SEAMANSHIP: All the arts andskills of boat handling, rangingfrom maintenence and repairsto piloting, sail handlingand rigging.SEA ROOM: A safe distance from theshore or other hazards.

always indicate where you should go

and where you shouldnt. For the

most part you will see red ones with

pointed tops and/or green ones with

blunt tops. These are Lateral Buoys,

buoys that tell you to stay to one side

or the other. Although you have to

know whether you are coming orgoing (entering a port or leaving

one), once you figure this out the

tried and tested rule of thumb is Red

Right Returning. In other words,

leave red buoys to your right when

returning to port. Not very nautical,

but it cuts the mustard.

Youll also see white buoys with

orange symbols which are known as

Control buoys controlling speed or

places you should stay out of such

as swimming areas. Yellow and black

buoys are known as Cardinal Buoys

and are a whole different kettle of

fish. They are, in fact, easier to

understand than Lateral Buoys since

you dont have to know whether you

are coming or going since just bytheir colour scheme or shape, they

tell you where the good water is.

For example, a North Cardinal Buoy

is black on the upper half and yel-

low on the lower half with two

pointed caps on top, one above the

other. This means, stay to the north

of me and all will be well.

Then there are flags. We have all seen

ships flying colourful flags, hoisting

them from stem to stern to celebrate

something. Each of these flags has a

meaning though some just a particu-

lar letter of the alphabet, others very

prescriptive messages all by them-

selves. But here are a couple of very

important ones to know. One is the

flag that is divided in half vertically

with one white and one blue section.

The other is the flag that is red with adiagonal white stripe. Both mean that

a diver is down in the area, perhaps

very deep or just below the surface

and out of sight but not out of reach

of propellers and skegs stay clear!

There are many more symbols, signals

and flags each associated with a partic-

ular meaning that ensures you and

others can boat safely on the water.

Learning all about them will make for

an enjoyable day on the water. Visit

DiscoverBoating.ca, or the Office of

Boating Safety web site (www.tc.gc.ca

/marinesafety/debs/obs/menu.htm), or

grab a Transport Canada Safe Boating

Guide to learn a bit, take a boating

course to learn all about them and

then get out on the water for a great

day of boating!

Lateral BuoysControl Buoys

Cardinal Buoys



KNOW BEFORE YOU GO

Cold Water Can Take Your Breath AwayBy Ted Rankine, Canadian Safe Boating Council

An unexpected fall i nto cold water can be a shock, causingan immediate, uncontrolled gasp, severe enough that youmay inhale more than a litre of water if your head is sub-merged. After the initial gasp, you will experience a periodof rapid hyperventilation with your respiration rate 6 to 10times above normal. Do not panic, it will pass within aminute or so. A lifejacket will help you survivethe initial cold water shock and give you thetime and opportunity for self rescue.

Wherever you go boating, breatheeasierwear a lifejacket.

L I F E I S B E T T E R W I T H A B O A T
http://discoverboating.ca/http://discoverboating.ca/http://www.tc.gc.ca/marinesafety/debs/obs/menu.htmhttp://www.tc.gc.ca/marinesafety/debs/obs/menu.htmhttp://www.tc.gc.ca/marinesafety/debs/obs/menu.htmhttp://www.tc.gc.ca/marinesafety/debs/obs/menu.htmhttp://discoverboating.ca/


15/24

All boating

under the same roof

With QMAs

new portal

To know everything on the

Montreal Boat and Water Sports

Show, visit:

WWW.SALONDUBATEAU.COM

Lakes guide

Marinas and water access

Boat rental

Beaches and water quality

Maps

Fishing

Boat showcase

Water sports

Boating directory

Documentation center

Everything to navigate

Quebec lakes and more!

WWW.NAUTISMEQUEBEC.COM

Quebec Marine AssociationTo be inform on the Association

and the boating industry news, visit:

To plan your next trip on

Quebecs waterways, visit:

CONTACT US

Quebec Marine Association (QMA)

1-877-560-1777

[email protected]

News

Nautiguide

Member services

Quebec Nautical Stations

Quebec Marina Rating

Program

Documentation center

Eco-marinas

Discover Boating

Q&A

Useful links

WWW.NAVIGATIONQUEBEC.COM
http://www.salondubateau.com/http://www.nautismequebec.com/mailto:[email protected]://www.navigationquebec.com/http://www.nautismequebec.com/http://www.nautismequebec.com/http://www.navigationquebec.com/http://www.salondubateau.com/mailto:[email protected]


16/24


By John KerrvsPower Sail

THE DECISION TO make the move to

boating will evolve into the discus-

sion of whether you want to buy a

sailboat or a powerboat. The reality

is, at the end of the day, that the

decision is a personal choice and

youll find that you may need to

make a few trade-offs to make the

choice thats right for you.

The myth that one type of boating is

more expensive than another is just

that a myth. If youre consideringthe basics of maintaining the infra-

structure like electronics, plumbing,

safety equipment and miscellaneous

live-aboard items you will find that

they are, for all intents and purposes,

equal. For example, the running costs

of power versus sail are fairly equal

when one compares items like sails,

masts, running rigging and winches

versus fuel to run a powerboat.

But there are some subtle differences

that need to be considered before you

step out into the sail or power world.

So, ask yourself this series of ques-

tions they will help to get you on

the right track.

Where are you planning

to go boating?

Are you boating close to home and

could you consider storing your boat

at home (in the garage or driveway)?

What key body of water are you goingto visit? For example, if youre plan-

ning to navigate BCs big open waters

or Lake Ontario, youll want a boat

that is large enough to do so with

ease. Considering where you want to

boat will ensure a better choice in the

long run.

Local knowledge is also key. Dont

ever be afraid to ask a boater you

know; we are all keen to help you find

the right answers. Local marine stores,

marinas and yacht clubs all provide

you with access to boaters with a

wealth of first hand experiences.

Typical input could include the nature

of the weather, winds, currents and

possible trips one could take. Good

facility and support knowledge is also

important to assess before you make

your final decision. Across Canada, for

the most part, both sail and power

facilities are abundant. But both typesof boats may require unique services,

such as cranes for mast stepping or

access to a good diesel mechanic.

Other considerations include boat

ramps and locations, entertainment

and accommodation nearby, marine

haul-out capability and/or repairs and

maintenance. You can find compre-

hensive lists of marinas and ramps on

DiscoverBoating.ca to get you started.


17/24

v

17

What activities do you plan

to enjoy on your boat?

The nature of the boating provides

many options: fishing; cruising

overnight; day-tripping; cottage use;

and sailboat racing. What you do with

your boat will greatly influence

whether it is a power or sailboat. Ifyoure planning to sleep onboard your

boat, youll want to consider that the

live aboard space on a 32-foot power-

boat is probably equal to that of a 40-

foot sailboat.

Who are you going boating with?

Whether it is family or friends, older

crew or kids, your crew will all influ-

ence the criteria for selection. Kidswill need space above and possibly

below decks, or height below might

be an important requirement for you.

The good news about boating is that

although there are so many choices to

make, there is a solution for every

need. But think it through. How many

people are you likely to have on board

at any one time? Are pets a considera-

tion? Small children? Grandparents?

By planning ahead you can be sure to

choose the perfect boat for all your

needs. In fact, you can also use the boat

selector tool on DiscoverBoating.ca to

help you narrow down your choices.

What is your initial

and ongoing budget?

Really think this through before you

make the final choice. The trailerable

sail or powerboat might be a better

place to start before making a commit-

ment to a club or marina. Depending

on your boat type or size you could

possibly consider dry stacking (vs. own-ing or renting a slip) that can greatly

lower your cost options,where available.

Make sure to take the time to consider

all the costs involved. Boats by nature

just like cars need care and main-

tenance for reliable and safe operation.

No matter what size or type of boat

you choose, youll want to be sure you

understand the ongoing running costs

related to things like winterizing, stor-

age, launch, dockage, fuel, repairs,

improvements or even upgrades.

What dont you know?Once you have decided whether

power or sail the most important

decision to make is getting the proper

education. The boating fraternity

offers some great courses. In Canada

there are many educators, and you

can get started on a list of Transport

Canada accredited course providers

on DiscoverBoating.ca. Visit a local

marina and talk to the people there.Youll find the boating community is

friendly and knowledgeable and more

than happy to talk to you about how

to get started in boating, whatever

your preferred boat type. Whatever

you decide, we hope to see you on

the water!

>> another day on the water >>

PROTEXIONBY

The Atlantic Marine Trades

Association (AMTA) is theofficial voice of the recreational

boating industry in CanadasMaritime Provinces.

With Atlantic Canadas spectacularcoastline, abundant lakes and manynavigable rivers, its not surprising

that we have a flourishing recreationalmarine industry.

Find out more about us by visiting

boatinginatlanticcanada.com
http://discoverboating.ca/http://discoverboating.ca/http://discoverboating.ca/http://boatinginatlanticcanada.com/http://discoverboating.ca/http://boatinginatlanticcanada.com/http://discoverboating.ca/


18/24


Joining a Yacht Club or Marina

By Elizabeth A Kerr

As a new boater, you may feel its nec-

essary to be part of a yacht club ormarina to go boating, but in fact there

are many other options. As a trailer

boater or cottage owner, all you really

need is access (and a ramp) to the

body of water youre boating on. That,

and a place to get your boat pumped

out, gassed, maintained, repaired and

stored (for the winter) is all you really

need to get you started.

If you are looking to be a part of an

existing boating community, you can

find that through either the local mari-

na or yacht club. While many people

think that marinas are for power-

boaters and yacht clubs are for sailors,

you may in fact find that this is simply

not the case. Either/or, the following is

an alphabetical list of some of the

things you should consider when

selecting a yacht club or marina.

Accommodations Nearby

Even although your intent is to spend

time on the boat, its always nice to

know that there is a cozy room nearby

during a bad storm or when extra

friends and family show up.

Annual & Monthly Dues

In most cases, there is an annual fee.

This fee varies vastly depending on

location and the facilities offered and

are charged annually, seasonally,and/or monthly.

Camping and Picnic Areas

Extra space for overnight guests and

options are always nice to have.

Car Parking

For boat-access only cottages, this

is extremely useful, however there

is usually an additional fee charged

for this!

Chandlery

Whether for provisioning and/or for last

minute purchases and needed parts, a

local chandlery (or marine-focused retail

store) can be very convenient.

Childrens Activities

This will depend on your own familys

demographics. Some clubs and mari-nas do offer childrens camps and pro-

grams throughout the summer.

Dining On Site or Nearby

Its always nice to give the cook a

break once and a while.

Education

As the Pleasure Craft Operator Card

(PCOC) deadline looms and the

awareness for boating safety increas-

es, many more marinas and clubs

are offering boating courses. Be sureyou seek out an accredited course

provider!

Family/Social Activities

Family and friends who join you on

your boat may be more than enough

entertainment. However, people new

to boating may welcome a ready-made

party or group outing. Its a great way

to meet new boaters.

Food Minimum Requirements

Some marina and clubs bill a mini-

mum food amount on a monthly or

quarterly basis, whether you actually

consume anything or not. Just make

sure you understand the terms.

Fuel

Boaters need fuel. Its nice to know its

there when you do.

Initiation Fees

Some marina and clubs have appli-

cation requirements, including initi-

ation fees that vary widely across the

country.

Launch and Haul Out Ramps

Like fuel, its nice to know you

dont have to go far to launch or

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mailto:[email protected]


20/24


Nautical TermsSEAWORTHY: A boat or a boat's gear able to meet the usualsea conditions.SECURE: To make fast.SET: Direction toward which the current is flowing.SLACK: Not fastened; loose. Also, to loosen.SOUNDING: A measurement of the depth of water.SPRING LINE: A pivot line used in docking, undocking, or toprevent the boat from moving forward or astern while madefast to a dock.SQUALL: A sudden, violent wind often accompanied by rain.STARBOARD: The right side of a boat when looking forward.STEM: The forward most part of the bow.STERN: The after part of the boat.STERN LINE: A docking line leading from the stern.STOW: To put an item in its proper place.TIDE: The periodic rise and fall of water level in the oceans.TILLER: A bar or handle for turning a boat's rudder or anoutboard motor.TOPSIDES: The sides of a vessel between the waterline andthe deck; sometimes referring to onto or above the deck.TRANSOM: The stern cross-section of a squaresterned boat.TRIM: Fore and aft balance of a boat.UNDERWAY: Vessel in motion (i.e., when not moored, atanchor, or aground).WAKE: Moving waves, track or path that a boat leavesbehind it, when moving across the waters.WATERLINE: A line painted on a hull which shows the pointto which a boat sinks when it isproperly trimmed.WINDWARD: Toward thedirection from which the windis coming.

For a full glossary of boating terms go to:

DiscoverBoating.ca

haul out your boat.

Maintenance and Repair

Many marinas offer maintenance and

repair services. Fewer yacht clubs have

this available onsite but are more than

likely linked to or affiliated with a

nearby outlet that can help you.

Overnight/Seasonal Dockage

This varies from club to club and

marina to marina and is often avail-

able on a first-come, first-serve basis.

Provisioning Nearby

Although you might opt to buy locally

before you leave on your boating

excursion, its very useful to know thatthere is a local grocery store for those

last minute ingredients, cravings and

ice cream!

Proximity to Your Home

or Cottage

As the price of gas continues to con-

tribute to the cost of boating on and

off the water, minimizing the distance

between activities is one more way to

keep costs inline.

Pumpouts

Like fuel and launch pads, its nice to

know you dont have to go far to

pumpout.

Reciprocal Clubs

Many marinas and yacht clubs have

relationships with other clubs around

the lake and across the country thatenable you to enjoy the services of

these other reciprocal clubs at a nom-

inal cost (and sometimes free).

Sports & Fitness Facilities

Many marinas and yacht clubs have

tennis courts and shuffleboard

courts. Some, particularly year-

round clubs, also offer fitness facili-

ties, spa services, swimming pools,

and indoor racquet sports.

Telephone and Internet Service

Although many of us have cell phones

and wireless computers that we take

with us wherever we go, access to tele-

phones and Internet services allow us

to take care of things on shore, andreally enjoy our boating activities

without interruption.

Types of Boats

Marinas and yacht clubs have a wide

variety of power and sailboats,

depending on availability and length

of slips. Make sure that the marinas or

yacht clubs you are considering can

accommodate yours.

Washrooms and Showers

Not all boats are equipped with wash-

rooms and/or showers, so be sure to

ask about this and plan ahead!

Water and Ice

Not all boats are equipped with

galleys. Ice and water on hand is a

bonus!

Winterizing and Winter Storage

The Canadian boater typically enjoys a

great boating season and knowing that

your boat is going to be properly win-

terized and stored when the boating

season is over eases ones mind.

Year-Round Access

Some clubs and marinas stay open

after the boating season ends offering

other activities to while away the win-

ter blues.

Joining a yacht club or marina is a

very personal choice. By spending a

little time doing some research

before you settle in youll be sure to

find that community thats right for

you. You can find a good list of

marinas and ramps that are nearby

by checking the listings on

DiscoverBoating.ca.

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http://discoverboating.ca/http://discoverboating.ca/http://discoverboating.ca/http://discoverboating.ca/http://discoverboating.ca/


21/24
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22/24


The Pleasure Craft

Operator CardBy Peter Garapick

To some, the question of boat operator

training is not even a question, its agiven. To others, the idea of any sort

of boat training is seen as an imposi-

tion that impacts their freedom to

cruise the waters at will.

In the 90s, statistics showed that there

were some basic issues occurring regu-

larly that were leading to unnecessary

boating incidents. Predominantly they

involved males between 18 and 55,

sometimes involved alcohol, and in

serious cases were just caused by neg-

ligence and not wearing a lifejacket.

Ultimately, the government with

huge support from police agencies and

boating associations determined that

it would be in the best interest of

Canadians to require some sort of

training before heading out on the

water. They worked with existingboating associations and created basic

requirements for a boating course that

would ensure that all boaters in

Canada would have a similar apprecia-

tion for the basics of boating safety.

Beginning in 1999, the The Pleasure

Craft Operator Card (PCOC) regula-

tions were phased in over 10 years.

First, anyone born after April 1, 1983

required the card in 1999 this was

aimed at the young people less than

16 years of age just getting into boat-

ing with the hope they would start

their boating adventures off in a safety

minded manner. Note: This date wasanchored which means that today

anyone who is 26 years or younger

should already have their PCOC.

Next in 2002, anyone operating a ves-

sel less than 4 metres required their

card this targeted smaller, open

boats as well as the exploding num-

bers of fast and exciting Personal

Water Craft that were just entering

into the market at that time. Finally,

after 10 years, anyone and everyone

operating a power-driven recreational

boat required the card.

That brings us to today, the boating

season of 2009. The date to have your

card is September 15th, 2009. Not

having your card will result in a fine

of $250.00. Getting the card can cost

as little as $35. There are severaloptions available to get your PCOC

from a Transport Canada accredited

provider. You can take the exam in

your local community, while youre

visiting a boat or outdoor show, or

even online. Transport Canada has

now changed the regulations to allow

online PCOC exams to be taken under

the guidance of a qualified Supervisor.

Statistics now show clearly that the

overall impact of the PCOC has

been positive. By working together,

the government, enforcement and

safety agencies, course providers and

the boaters who have embraced it

have all shown a clear improvementin boating incidents.

There is no question that now that

boaters either have their card or know

they need to get it or pay $250 for not

having it; today, many more boaters

have safety on their minds when they

walk down the dock to go boating.

Finding an accredited course pro-

vider is easy. Youll find a link from

DiscoverBoating.ca under Getting

Started. Scout around and evaluate

the course providers and their prod-

ucts. Purchase one of the better course

manuals and either home study

around the kitchen table with the fam-

ily or sign em all up for a one-day

course. Then, when you write the test

and pass, not only do you have your

PCOC in your pocket, you truly havea bunch of boating safety information

in your head.

Its 2009; you need your PCOC.

Doing nothing may cost you $250 or

worse, a really bad day on the water.

Spending a few dollars today to learn

to be that much safer on the water will

be worth more than every penny.


23/24

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about boating in canada

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