If you are offering your boat(s) for rent in Canada, following best practices outlined by Transport Canada can help you provide safe and enjoyable rental experiences to guests for seasons to come. Here are some tips and resources to get you started:
1. Establish your rental type
In Canada, vessels are defined and regulated by how they’re used. Therefore, it is important to determine which category you fall under prior to offering your watercraft for rent. Transport Canada's Ship Safety Bulletin and Fact Sheet can help determine when a pleasure craft becomes a non-pleasure craft (commercial vessel).
2. Set clear expectations
Part of boating happily is boating safely. Determine your vessel's registration and licensing requirements and verify that you have the proper level of insurance. Provide an outline of your safety rules in your listing description, and highlight policies renters should know before booking. Add your legal guest capacity, delivery options, and watercraft specifications.
3. Get to know your guests
Our secure messaging platform lets you instantly chat with renters and ask or answer any questions before a trip. This is a great place to coordinate the trip itinerary, confirm the renters competency, or offer any extras like a cooler or ice in advance.
For your safety, please do not share any contact information until a booking has been confirmed.
4. Keep safety documentation
Once your booking is confirmed, connect with your renter and send them the proper safety agreement. GetMyBoat offers sample bareboat or standard rental agreements. Keep a copy for yourself and provide a copy to the renter. Please note that these are templates only.
Consult with your lawyer or legal counsel to review the documents, and ensure they cover your specific needs and terms.
5. Prepare your watercraft
It's important to provide your renters with the safety essentials they will need for their trip. This includes reviewing your safety checklist and conducting a pre/post rental inspection. Your checklists should serve as a reminder to verify all items are attended to before a trip, and allow for time to perform an initial damage check on your watercraft. Have your renter review it together with you, and make sure you both have read, understood, and signed both forms. Keep a copy of your checklist and rental contract as this is required to process a claim.
Additional Transport Canada Resources
Pleasure Craft Safe Boating Guide
Vessel Licensing and Registration Questionnaire
Vessel Safety Certificate Regulations
Small Vessel Compliance Program
Insurance Requirements for Passenger Vessels
Commercial Operator Competency Table
This article is not exhaustive and we recommend contacting your local Transport Canada branch if you need clarification. Our 24/7 support team is also here to help. Send us an email at support@getmyboat.com or call +1 (818) 927 2148.
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