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A woman looks at a box with boating safety equipment. Boating Safety

Required Boat Safety Equipment Checklist (Canada & US, 2026)

By Teri Williams
September 3, 2026

Do you ever just hop on your boat and take off from the dock? When you're anxious to hit the water, it's tempting to skip a few steps to get out there sooner — but that can be dangerous. However, responsible boaters know to pause…

A rope and knot tied to a cleat on a dock, types of knots concept. Boating Safety

How to Tie 6 Types of Knots Boaters Should Know

By Teri Williams
August 27, 2026

The most essential boat knots include the bowline, cleat hitch, and clove hitch. Each knot serves a unique safety and mooring purpose on the water. As a boater, one of the things you need to know how to do is tie the right types of…

Pontoon boat on the water in the distance, is a Canadian boating license valid concept. Canada Boating

Boating Licence Reciprocity: Which Provinces & Countries Accept Your PCOC?

By Teri Williams
August 20, 2026

If you have a Canadian boating licence, otherwise known as the Pleasure Craft Operator Card (PCOC), it's valid in every Canadian province. Additionally, it's generally valid throughout the United States due to reciprocity, because it meets National Association of State Boating Law Administrators (NASBLA) standards.

Man in life jacket holds a PCOC, Ontario boating license concept. Boating License

Does Your Ontario Boating Licence Expire? PCOC vs PCL Rules (2026)

By Teri Williams
August 18, 2026

No, your Ontario boating license, officially known as the Pleasure Craft Operator Card (PCOC), does not expire. Once you get it, it is valid for life across all of Canada. Boating is a popular activity in Ontario and offers nearly endless opportunities for adventure on…

Docked boat displays American flag, do Americans need a boating license in Canada concept. Canada Boating

Do Americans Need a Boating Licence in Canada? (Visiting Boater Rules)

By Teri Williams
August 13, 2026

If you're an American visiting Canada and want to explore the country's waterways, you don't necessarily need a Canadian boating licence. However, you will need to show proof of competency and carry it with you on board at all times. If you have a boat…

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Featured Stories

A woman and two children wearing life jackets while on a boat.
  1. How Do Life Jackets Work and Why Should You Wear One?

    May 4, 2026
  2. How to Register or Transfer a Boat in BC: Licence, Bill of Sale, 2026 Rules

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  3. Who is Exempt from California Boating License Requirements in 2025?

    March 24, 2025
  4. All About New York Watercraft Laws and Licensing [2025 Updates]

    March 6, 2025
  5. Is a Personal Watercraft Safety Course Required in Canada?

    April 4, 2024

Latest Reviews

  • A woman looks at a box with boating safety equipment.

    Required Boat Safety Equipment Checklist (Canada & US, 2026)

    September 3, 2026
  • A rope and knot tied to a cleat on a dock, types of knots concept.

    How to Tie 6 Types of Knots Boaters Should Know

    August 27, 2026
  • Man in life jacket holds a PCOC, Ontario boating license concept.

    Does Your Ontario Boating Licence Expire? PCOC vs PCL Rules (2026)

    August 18, 2026
  • A boat in rough water, how to drive a boat in rough water concept.

    Where the Water Gets Rough: How to Spot (and Avoid) Choppy Areas Before You Get There

    August 10, 2026
More reviews

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