Is There Electric Boating in British Columbia?
Yes, you can make waves in an eco-friendly way in B.C. with your electric boat.
Before you take your zero-emission boat out on B.C.’s beautiful waterways, don’t forget about insurance for your electric boat.
Western Financial Group, a 100% Canadian company, can help you navigate your boat, car, home, and business insurance during this period of economic uncertainty.
What you need to know about electric boats in British Columbia:
Do I need a special license for an electric boat in B.C.?
In B.C., the Pleasure Craft Operator Card (PCOC) is required for anyone operating a motorized boat, whether it’s electric or not. The PCOC is also known as a boating license and all Canadian boaters must have a PCOC card. It is illegal to operate a powered boat in B.C. without a boating license.
Do you know what an electric boat is?
An electric boat does not use gas or diesel fuel. An electric boat is powered by batteries (or battery) that store electrical energy, which is used to power the boat’s electric motor and propeller.
How many batteries does an electric boat need?
That depends on the type of electric boat and its size. Small electric boats might need just one battery, while large electric boats may need multiple batteries plus energy storage capacity.
Examples of electric boats
- Tender boats, also called dinghies
- Pontoon boats
- Rigid inflatable boats (RIBs)
- Electric outboards
- Electric fishing boats
- Electric passenger ferries
- Electric sailboats
- Electric canal boats
How heavy are batteries for electric boats?
The weight of marine batteries varies, from under 20 pounds (9 kilograms) for lithium to over 100 pounds (45 kilograms) for large lead acid batteries.
Traditional lead-acid batteries add significant weight to your B.C. boat, which can impact on your boat’s overall performance and handling. An AGM (Absorbed Glass Mat) battery is a type of lead-acid battery designed for boats that’s spill-proof, vibration-resistant, and high performing.
Lightweight lithium-ion batteries add less weight to your boat. They’re used in smaller fishing boats, yachts, and electric outboards.
Do you need to change an electric boat’s battery?
You’ll need to have your electric boat’s battery changed every three to five years. This can vary depending on the type of battery your boat uses, your boat maintenance, and your boat’s usage.
If your electric’s boat battery is older than five years, it’s probably time to replace it.
Where do I charge my electric boat in British Columbia?
In B.C., you can charge your electric boat at public EV charging stations, marinas with charging infrastructure, or at your own dock if you have access to a 240V outlet. Many of BC Hydro's public chargers are located at rest areas along provincial highways for use.
Can an electric boat blow up?
The risk is low because an electric boat doesn’t have a flammable fuel system.
What happens if my electric boat sinks?
Like any other boat, an electric boat can sink. The risk of electrocution is considered low if your electric boat is built to safety standards. The electric battery's design, along with safety features, make it unlikely that you would be exposed to electrocution if your electric boat sinks, experts say.
Shark attack or electrocution?
Your electric boat has sunk in sea water. Batteries that are submerged in saltwater pose little danger of electrocution. What if a shark is near your submerged electric boat? It’s said that more people die from taking selfies than are killed by sharks, but can you trust a shark?
Can I get electrocuted on my electric boat?
Electrocution is a risk on any boat, including electric boats. Electric boats have built-in safety features and are designed to minimize the risk of electrocution, but it’s important to make sure they are properly maintained.
Do a lot of B.C. marinas have charging infrastructure for electric boats?
B.C. marinas are increasingly offering charging stations for electric boats, particularly fast-charging options. Aqua superPower has partnered with BCI Marine to install superchargers at BCI partner locations.
What are the pros and cons of electric boating in B.C.?
Pros
- Zero emissions, no gasoline residue in the water
- No fuel spills
- Reduced noise
- Eco-friendly, reducing environmental impact on the water and shoreline
- Lower long-term operating costs
- Smooth acceleration, instant torque
Cons
- Still generally less powerful than gasoline boats
- Electric charging infrastructure may not be as widespread as refueling stations for gasoline-powered watercraft
- High initial cost
- Long charging time
- Limited range
- Battery problems
- Electrical failures
B.C. boat insurance for electric boats
The value of your electric boat can affect your B.C. boat insurance premium. Insurance policies for e-boats may differ from those for traditional boats. Electric boats may need specialized boat insurance coverage. Ask your Western Financial Group British Columbia boat insurance expert.
In Canada, boat insurance is not mandatory but your financial lender may ask that your boat be insured as a condition of financing. If you are docking at a marina or use a private boathouse in B.C., you may be required to carry a specific amount of liability insurance and show proof of boat insurance. Many marinas in British Columbia require $3 million in liability insurance.
B.C. boat insurance protects you, your loved ones, and your investment in your electric boat.
Electric boat FAQs
Are there hybrid electric boats in B.C.?
Yes, you can buy a hybrid electric boat in British Columbia. They combine the power of electric motors with traditional diesel engines. A hybrid boat offers the option of silent, electric-only trips at lower speeds, while the diesel engine provides power for higher speeds or longer trips.
How far can an electric boat go?
The range of an electric boat depends on the model and battery and it’s improving with better technology. You can generally expect three to four hours of cruising at a moderate speed of 5-7 knots. Factors such as battery capacity, efficiency, and speed impact how long you can go on a single charge.
Should I get a generator for my electric boat?
A generator can be useful if you plan to use your boat for extended periods away from shore power.
How much will I need to spend for an electric boat?
The base price of an electric boat can range from under $1,000 for a small, basic model to over $1 million for luxury yachts. There are some low-cost models, but many luxury and performance electric boats cost more than $300,000.
Does an electric boat go faster than a gas-powered boat?
An electric boat isn’t usually as fast as a gas-powered boat due to limitations in battery technology and power output. Gas-engine boats typically offer more power and higher speeds, but electric boats have instant torque and smooth acceleration.
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