There’s a big problem in Canada…okay maybe more than just one but I’m taking about the Charter Boat business. You see, owning a yacht or boat in Canada is expensive, so many people think they can make a little money on the side and run a Charter business. Easy right?
A tour we think you'll love
But the problem is if your vessel is registered as a pleasure craft, which most are, it is completely illegal to Charter your boat or yacht. Transport Canada is the regulatory body on the matter and they say, as soon as you profit from the use of you vessel with passengers or cargo, it’s a whole different ball game. If you are a paying passenger, why should this matter to you? For one, Transport Canada has different safety requirements for commercial vessels, and different licensing requirements for the crew…all designed to help you stay safe out on the water. Secondly, commercal vessels are insured specifically for thier use, so if some unfortunate accident were to occur, you would be covered and cared for properly…not the case if your charter business was acting outside of the law.
Good news though, Transport Canada made it easy for you to spot the bad apples ou there with the registration numbers visible on every boat. All commercially registered small vessels in Canada start with a “C”. But thats just the start of what to look for. Check out our Blog on Passenger Capacity for more.
