What's a Float Plan for Boats?
You’re going on a boating vacation. Who knows where you are going? In case of an emergency, who would be able to find you? Do you have a float plan in case you don’t arrive at your destination?
You need a float plan to keep you and your passengers safe. A float plan can make the difference between your safety and an accident, or even a tragedy.
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What else is a float plan called?
A float plan is also called a trip plan or a sail plan.
Why do boaters need trip plans?
As a recreational boater, you should file a trip/float plan if you are going on a boating vacation for any length of time.
What if you’re just going to be out on the water for an afternoon? You may not want to file a written trip plan for a short jaunt, but for your safety you need to make sure you tell someone about your destination and when you will return to shore.
Who gets the float plan?
You would leave your trip plan/ float plan/sail plan with a friend, family member, or marina so that a rescue coordination centre or a search and rescue team can be contacted and sent out to find you if you fail to arrive at your boating destination.
Do I need to write the trip plan?
A trip plan/ float plan can be written or verbal. You need to include the names of your passengers, where you are going, when you are expected to arrive at your destination. and when you will return to shore. It’s sort of like a pilot’s flight plan.
What else is in a float plan?
A float plan also includes your boat’s size, colour, make, whether it is motor- or wind-powered, and its identification number.
Where are you going?
You need to include a plan of your boat route to help rescuers find if there’s an emergency.
Starting point
Where are you leaving from? Don’t forget to name the marina or launch ramp.
Vehicle information
Include location and license plate number of your car and/or tow vehicle for your boat.
Who is going to be on your boat?
List names, ages, genders and any medical conditions or disabilities of the people on your boat that could be relevant in a rescue operation.
Where are you going?
Include your destination and when you plan to arrive. If your trip is lengthy, you should consider including places and arrival times in your trip plan.
Contact information
Provide contact information, including cell phone numbers and VHF radio.
What if I want to write my float plan?
Transport Canada has boating trip plan form that can be filled out online and emailed to your designated family member or friend.
You can also file your trip plan with a marina or your local Canadian Coast Guard detachment.
Is a float plan legally required in Canada?
A float plan/trip plan isn’t legally required in Canada. It’s recommended because it can help keep you safe if you have a boating mishap or accident and you do not arrive at your destination.
What equipment do I need for my boating vacation?
- Personal floatation devices (PFDs): By law, recreational boats must have enough Canadian-approved flotation devices of the appropriate size for everyone on board. Lifesaving cushions are not approved as personal flotation devices.
- Lights: Make sure all navigation lights and all instrument lights are working.
- Tools: Carry a basic toolbox with tools appropriate for your boat. Carry a box of spares including fuel filter, light bulbs, head parts, through-hull plugs.
- Fire extinguisher: Carry at least one fire extinguisher.
- Distress signals: Make flares accessible and ensure they are stored in a cool, dry location.
What else do I need to do before I leave on my boating trip?
Make sure you have enough fuel for your return to shore. Check the engine oil and coolant levels.
Check the weather forecast before boating. Have a radio on board to get weather forecasts.
You are going on a boating trip. Do you have boat insurance?
Boat insurance protects your investment in your boat. It protects you if you have an accident with another boat, if your boat catches fire, or if your boat is damaged by severe weather. Did you know? If your boat is financed, your lender will likely require you to get boat insurance and marinas can require liability insurance for docking and mooring privileges.
To sum it all up
A trip plan lets loved ones or a marina know your route and when you are expected to arrive at your destination and return to shore. It’s peace of mind for everyone and could help save lives.
5 boat FAQs
Why is a float plan important for your boat?
In case of an emergency, a float plan (trip plan) provides critical information about your route and destination to search and rescue teams, which will help them locate you more quickly. It's a safety tool for all boaters.
When should I file a float plan?
It's recommended to file a float plan for any extended boat trip, especially involving travel away from familiar waters. Even if you are going boating for an afternoon, make sure to let someone know where you are going and when you will return to shore.
Do we have to wear lifejackets on a boat?
No, it’s not legally required in Canada to wear lifejackets. Transport Canada mandates that all boats must carry a Canadian-approved lifejacket or personal flotation device (PFD) for each person on board.
What equipment is required on a boat in Canada?
Canadian boating safety regulations require all pleasure crafts to carry specific safety equipment, including life jackets, a buoyant heaving line, a bailer or bilge pump, and a sound-signaling device. Larger boats and boats operating at night, or in low visibility, require additional equipment such as navigation lights, a magnetic compass, and flares.
What’s a PCOC?
A Pleasure Craft Operator Card (PCOC) is often called a boating license. It’s a Transport Canada-issued card showing that you have completed a boating safety course and passed the related boating exam. It's proof of competency to operate a motorized pleasure craft in Canada.
