Recreational Boating

There are almost two million small boats and personal watercraft registered in Canada. That means that about one in six households owns at least one boat, whether it is a sailing, fishing, inboard, outboard, rowboat, or canoe. With this many boats navigating Canadian waterways, how safe are you?

Are you aware of the benefits of using nautical charts? Benefits include decreasing the possibilities of grounding and damaging your boat, reducing possible damage to the environment, and increasing boater and personal safety.

In fact, our motto is Nautical Charts Protect Lives, Property and the Marine Environment.

The Canadian Hydrographic Service has developed special nautical charts exclusively for you, the recreational boater. Where can I get my nautical chart?

The demand for electronic charts among recreational boaters is increasing. Electronic Navigational Charts (ENCs) are distributed under the trademark digital ocean^TM, by Nautical Data International, Inc. (NDI), the distributor of digital hydrographic products for CHS.

Products and Services

Check out the marine information highway for a complete list of products and related services tailored specifically to the recreational boater.

Electronic Navigational Charts (ENCs) are distributed under the trademark digital ocean^TM, by Nautical Data International, Inc. (NDI), the official distributor of digital hydrographic products for CHS.

Notices to Mariners

Notices to Mariners (NOTMAR) are electronic bulletins, detailing newly discovered hazards to shipping, and changes in aids to navigation such as buoys and lights. They are issued monthly in collaboration with, and through the offices of the Canadian Coast Guard.

Dealers

CHS products are available from one of over 700 authorized chart dealers across the country.

Licensing, registration and identification/markings

Did you know that all recreational vessels under 15 gross tons and powered by an engine 10 horsepower (7.5 kilowatts) or more must be licenced or registered, regardless of where they operate in Canada?The process is free-of-charge but mandatory. Visit the Transport Canada’s Office of Boating Safety website for information.

Educational

CHS takes a leadership role and demonstrates great responsibility as a reliable source for information, support, and guidance in the continued efforts to provide quality hydrographic services. Check out our research and educational activities.

Safe Boating Guide

The CHS is very concerned with water and boater safety. In fact our motto is Nautical Charts Protect Lives, Property and the Marine Environment. With this in mind the CHS, in cooperation with the Transport Canada, (TC), proposes that you take time to read the Safe Boating Guide. The information is an invaluable resource.

This site is maintained by the Canadian Hydrographic Service.