As stipulated in Part I of the Canada Shipping Act, Transport Canada is responsible for registering Canadian vessels upon request from their owners.

The Act requires registration of vessels and pleasure crafts exceeding 15 register tons.

Ship Registration consists of establishing its identity and providing it with a title against which a ship's mortage or some other necessity may be obtained and the right to navigate in international waters.

Transport Canada Marine Safety Forms

Our Ship Registration Offices, in Quebec, are located at:

While the Act does not require registration of ships below 15 tons (as noted above), owners of these vessels may choose to register them. Vessels equipped with a permanent or temporary engine of 7.5 kW (10 HP) or more must, however, hold a licence that may be obtained from Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA).