Boating in Canada is incredible, but every vessel—no matter how small—must carry specific safety gear. If you operate a boat under 6 metres (19’8”), this guide explains the Transport Canada minimums in clear language, plus a short list of smart extras to stay safe on the water.
Shop Marine Safety Equipment to get everything you need before you launch.
Who this applies to
This article covers pleasure craft under 6 m that are not human-powered (e.g., small aluminum boats, dinghies, tenders, jon boats, small centre consoles). Human-powered craft like kayaks and canoes follow a slightly different list; we’ll publish a separate guide for them.
What Transport Canada Requires (Under 6 m)
Personal lifesaving equipment
You must carry one Canadian-approved lifejacket or PFD for each person on board, a buoyant heaving line at least 15 m long, and a reboarding device (ladder/rope/step) if your freeboard is over 0.5 m (1’8”).
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Vessel safety equipment
Carry one manual propelling device (such as a paddle) or an anchor with at least 15 m of rope/cable/chain, and one bailer or manual bilge pump.
Visual signals
You need one watertight flashlight and three pyrotechnic distress signals (flares) other than smoke signals.
Navigation equipment
Have a sound-signalling device (whistle or horn). Navigation lights are required when operating after sunset, before sunrise, or in restricted visibility. A magnetic compass is required unless the boat is 8 m or less and operating within sight of navigation marks. A radar reflector is required on most non-metallic boats unless installation is impractical.
Fire fighting equipment
Carry a 5BC fire extinguisher if your boat has an inboard engine, a fixed fuel tank (any size), or a fuel-burning cooking, heating, or refrigeration appliance.
Common exceptions and notes
Pyrotechnic signals: Boats that never operate more than one nautical mile from shore on rivers/canals/lakes, or boats without sleeping quarters competing in an official event, may be exempt from carrying flares.
Bailer/pump: Not required if the boat cannot hold enough water to capsize or has sealed, non-accessible watertight compartments.
Navigation lights: A watertight flashlight can meet this requirement for some very small craft operated at night or in restricted visibility.
Recommended gear beyond the minimum
The legal minimum keeps you compliant; a few extras make a big difference on the water in BC:
- Waterproof flashlight with spare batteries
- Compact first-aid kit and dry bag with warm layers
- Anchor with additional rode for wind/current
- Waterproof phone case or handheld VHF radio
- Additional flares and a throwable device
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Why this matters
RCMP and Coast Guard do routine checks across Canada, including Vancouver Island. Missing even one required item can lead to fines—and far worse outcomes in an emergency. The right kit protects you, your passengers, and other boaters.
Get your small-boat safety kit sorted
Before your next trip, confirm you have the required items on board. If you’re missing anything, we’ve got you covered:
Note: This article summarizes Transport Canada requirements for pleasure craft under 6 m and is provided for general guidance only. Always verify the latest regulations for your specific vessel and operating area.
