Boat Operator Cards (also called Pleasure Craft Operator Cards or Boat Safety Cards) are a topic that many guests have called to inquire about for 2010. From the information we have received from NOTO (the Nature & Outdoor Tourism Ontario organization) about Canadian boating regulations, the understanding is that all Canadians are required to have a Boat Operator Card (or Pleasure Craft Operator’s Card, as it is formally named). This requirement has been in place since September 2009.
Americans who use their own boats in Canada are NOT required to have this card but non-residents are encouraged to apply online and take the boating exam, especially if they plan long vacations in Canada. The fact that American boat owners do not need a card seems contradictory — the locals here in Ontario are confused to say the least.
Americans who are renting boats and/or equipment from a registered tourist operator in Ontario don’t have to buy one of these cards either. Renters only need to fill out and sign a Rental Boat Safety Check List, which is usually supplied and co-signed by a tourist operator.
So for all of you that have read the magazine or online articles and wondered what was up this year, don’t worry about the card. We’ll have the Rental Boat Safety Check List ready for you to sign here at the lodge when you arrive for your Canadian fishing trips.
Tags: 2010 fishing season, boat operator cards, canadian regulations