Choosing Between Power and Sail

Knowing the Ropes

YOUR FIRST BOAT TRIP
Maintaining Good
Relationships Onboard
Get Your Pleasure
Craft Operator Card
DEADLINE: SEPTEMBER 15, 2009
Taking the Plunge
Buying Your
First Boat
Dogs need weekends, too.
See how easy it is to get started boating
with your free DVD at DiscoverBoating.ca.
3
Welcome to Discover Boating!
TABLE OF CONTENTS
4 The One Manual Boating Couples Really Need
(for maintaining good relationships)
8 Taking the Plunge: Tips on Buying Your First Boat
12 Knowing the Ropes
16 Power vs. Sail
18 Joining a Yacht Club or Marina
22 The Pleasure Craft Operator Card
About Discover Boating
Discover Boating is a public awareness effort managed
by NMMA Canada on behalf of the Canadian recre-
ational boating industry. Discover Boating programs
focus on increasing participation and creating interest
in recreational boating by demonstrating the benefits,
affordability and accessibility of the boating lifestyle
while helping to educate potential boaters and offering
opportunities to experience the fun and togetherness
of being on the water in a boat. Each year more
than 6 million people in Canada enjoy boating, the
recreational activity that connects like no other.
To find out more, visit DiscoverBoating.ca or contact
Discover Boating Program Manager, Tracey Hart at
905-951-4057 or at thart@nmma.org.
Discover Boating Board Members
Terry Conrad Conrad Marine Sales & Service
Scott MacCrimmon Ed Huck Marine
Dave Barnier Erieau Marina
Adrian Rushforth Mercury Marine
Roy Baird Taylor Publishing
Chris Goulder Volvo Penta
Alan Stovell Western Marine
Greg Alcock Woodlake Marine
Rick Layzell Yamaha Canada
Yves Paquette Association Maritime
du Quebec
Pat Nelder Atlantic Marine
Trades Association
Wayne Yamauchi BC Marine Trades Association
Jim Flood Mid-Canada Marine
Dealers Association
Al Donaldson Ontario Marine Operators
Association
Cyndi Hodgson Ontario Marine Operators
Association
Sara Anghel NMMA Canada
Linda Waddell NMMA Canada
Discover Boating Staff
Carl Blackwell NMMA
Tracey Hart NMMA Canada
Publisher
Discover Boating Canada
c/o National Marine Manufacturers Association
14 McEwan Drive West, Unit #8
Bolton, Ontario L7E 1H1
Tel: 905-951-0009
Fax: 905-951-0018
Managing Editor
Elizabeth Kerr, Kerrwil Publications Limited
Contributors
Peter Garapick, Ian Gilson, John Kerr,
Ted Rankine, Alan Wendt
Art Director
Allan S. Bates
Discover Boating 2009 was produced
in partnership with:
Have you ever watched people out boating on a beautiful day and thought
I wish that was me out there? Discover Boating can help make it happen!
The purpose of Discover Boating program is simple to help people become
boaters. Whatever your level of involvement, boating offers activities that every-
one can enjoy.
Boating has never been more affordable and, compared to other leisure and
vacation activities, it offers nearly limitless flexibility and fun that lasts all season
long. Youll find that boating is about building relationships with family and
friends and creating memories, one weekend at a time. Whether you prefer
fishing, sailing, water sports or simply cruising with the people you care about
boating has something for everyone.
If youre thinking about buying your first boat the DiscoverBoating.ca website is
a great place to start your research. It features a wide variety of free tools and
resources. Youll find everything from information on how to get started in
boating, to choosing the right boat, to glossaries, activities and destinations.
DiscoverBoating.ca really is a fun and easy way to educate yourself about
boating and all it has to offer you and your family. While online, you can also
order your free Get Started in Boating DVD your all-in-one guide to help
you get out on the water in that new boat.
If youre already hooked on being out on the water, but youd like more infor-
mation about new skills you want to develop or different activities you want to
try - Discover Boating can help you as well! Want to know about boating
courses, safety information, boat financing? You name ityou can find the
answers to all your boating questions at Discover Boating.ca.
Visit DiscoverBoating.ca today and find out why life is better with a boat!
See you on the water!
Dave Barnier
Chairman
Discover Boating Program
4 L I F E I S B E T T E R W I T H A B O A T
by Alan Wendt
A LONG-TIME BOATER SHARES HIS
ADVICE ON WAYS COUPLES CAN
EFFECTIVELY COMMUNICATE
WHILE ONBOARD
THE ONE MANUAL
Boating Couples
Really Need
Get Ready, Get Set, Go Boating!
By Peter Garapick, Canadian Coast Guard
The best part of the title above is the last part Go Boating!
But perhaps the most important words are the ones
that make the Go Boating part so enjoyable getting ready
and set.
Before leaving the dock, have you reviewed your pre-
departure checklist? Are you and the boat ready for a great
day on the water? Here are a few things to consider before
heading out with your family and friends.
Have you gotten to know your boat? Have you familiarized
yourself with the controls, fuel and oil capacity, where the
hull-plug is? Do you have the safety gear on board items
required by law and other things that make sense (i.e.,
minor tool kit)? Do you know how many people it can hold
and do you have life jackets the right size for everyone?
How about yourself? Have you got your Pleasure Craft
Operators Card (PCOC)? Study up, take the test and be
that much more knowledgeable about being safe while
having fun on the water. If the boat has a radio, do you
know how to use it properly: do you have you radio
operators certificate?
Before leaving the dock, check the weather forecast and
be sure you and your boat can handle the conditions that
Mother-Nature will throw at you. This includes sunscreen,
hats and lots of water to drink. File a sail-plan which is let-
ting someone know where you are going and when you will
be back and be sure to have charts for the waters on which
you are going to boat its the only way to know where
nasty rocks are hiding below the surface.
Boating is a great way to spend the warmer months of the
year but it is different than activities on land - and that is
why it is so much fun. It might take a bit more
planning, but helping to guarantee a great day
on the water is worth it! Youll find all
the checklists above and more on
DiscoverBoating.ca to help get you
started and safely underway.
KNOW BEFORE YOU GO
5
FIRST-TIME BOATERS can be over-
whelmed by the number of operating
manuals they receive on the day they
finally take delivery of their new boat.
The bigger the boat, the thicker the
briefcase, which contains manuals that
explain everything from how to wire a
bilge pump, to instructions on how to
set up your onboard TV remote. The
one manual thats missing, however, is
how the Captain should address the
Admiral (a.k.a. how husbands and
wives should communicate).
How strong is your marriage? The
question lobbed at me by the attrac-
tive blond sprawled out on a beach
towel stopped me dead in the
sand. My wife and I were wading
ashore after providing comic relief to
those who watched our fumbling
attempt at anchoring. Yes, this was our
first day of boating and although nei-
ther of us had served in the Navy, our
soon-to-be boating friends would tell
us months later that we both delivered
a string of four letter words that
wouldve made a sailor blush.
Make sure you laugh on the drive
home, was her parting advice. Gayle
would become one of our closest
boating friends in the months ahead.
Her insight helped us create the emo-
tional bonds that husbands and wives
need to smooth over the metaphoric,
storm-tossed seas that boating mar-
riages weather.
That first weekend, neither of us said
a word on the hour-long drive home.
By the second weekend, we managed
to find a chuckle at the half way point.
The third week we said our apologies
before leaving the marina. By the way,
that was 20 years ago; we are still
boating and raised two children on the
water, who, as adults, also share the
water gene.
Aside from laughter, nothing beats a
good teacher. Find a boat dealer who
offers hands-on learning for both hus-
band and wife, and not necessarily at
the same time. Generally, husbands
make lousy instructors because they
yell and hog the wheel. Throughout
two decades, weve observed that
women, when properly taught, are
better at docking than men. They are
patient, not afraid to pull back and try
6 L I F E I S B E T T E R W I T H A B O A T
Nautical Terms
ABOARD: On or within the boat.
ABOVE DECK: On the deck.
AFT: Toward the stern of the boat.
AGROUND: Touching or fast to the bottom.
ANCHORAGE: A place suitable for anchoring in relation to
the wind, seas and bottom.
BATTEN DOWN: Secure hatches and loose objects both
within the hull and on deck.
BEAM: The greatest width of the boat.
BEARING: The direction of an object expressed either as a
true bearing as shown on the chart, or as a bearing relative
to the heading of the boat.
BELOW: Beneath the deck.
BOW: The forward part of a boat.
BOW LINE: A docking line leading from the bow.
BRIDGE: The location from which a vessel is steered and its
speed controlled. "Control Station" is really a more appropri-
ate term for small craft.
BULKHEAD: A vertical partition separating compartments.
BUOY: An anchored float used for marking a position on the
water or a hazard or a shoal and for mooring.
CAPSIZE: To turn over.
CAST OFF: To let go.
CHART: A map for use by navigators.
CLEAT: A fitting to which lines are made fast. The classic
cleat is approximately anvil-shaped.
COCKPIT: An opening in the deck from which the
boat is handled.
COIL: To lay a line down in circular turns.
COURSE: The direction in which a boat is steered.
CURRENT: The horizontal movement of water.
DEAD AHEAD: Directly ahead.
DEAD ASTERN: Directly aft.
DECK: A permanent covering
over a compartment, hull or any
part thereof.
DISPLACEMENT: The weight of
water displaced by a floating ves-
sel, thus, a boat's weight.
Now the good part: Boats force you
to spend time together. Youre in
close quarters; its easy to make eye
contact. Away from the distractions of
home and work, youre more likely to
talk with each other. Marriage coun-
selors say this basic intimacy leads to
intimacy! Cue the music from The
Love Boat.
Use the winter to jointly plan summer
boating trips. Your boat offers a mini-
vacation, an escape every weekend.
Boaters are pretty social and shared
dinner parties or cocktails are a rich
tradition. So you dont even have to
leave the dock to enjoy the boat! With
low-cost business cards you can print
at home, create a card with your con-
tact information and boat name to
share with new boating acquaintances.
It could be Gayle calling to say, Were
going to the Seafood Shack for Sunday
brunch; Come join us! Meet you on
VHF Channel 72.
Visit DiscoverBoating.ca to learn more
about some of the great rewards boat-
ing offers families. This online
resource is constantly updated with
new boating activities, destinations
and resources to help in your decision
making process.
General Boating Resource
Discover Boating
www.discoverboating.ca
Marine Associations
National Marine Manufacturers
Association Canada
www.nmma.ca
Association Maritime du Quebec
www.nautismequebec.com
Atlantic Marine Trades Association
www.boatinginatlanticcanada.com
BC Marine Trades Association
www.bcmta.com
Mid-Canada Marine Dealers Association
www.midcanadamarinedealers.com
Ontario Marine Operators Association
www.boating-ontario.com
www.marinasontario.com
Safe Boating Resources
Transport Canada Office of
Boating Safety
www.boatingsafety.gc.ca
Pleasure Craft Operators Card (PCOC)
www.tc.gc.ca/marinesafety/debs
/obs/paperwork/paperwork_operator.htm#il
Marine Weather Forecasts
www.weatheroffice.ec.gc.ca
Canadian Hydrographic Service
Chart Distribution Office
www.charts.gc.ca
Life Saving Society
www.lifesavingsociety.com
Canadian Safe Boating Council
www.csbc.ca
Canadian Power & Sail Squadron
www.cps-ecp.ca
Canadian Yachting Association
www.sailing.ca
Boating Resource Directory
Useful Contacts At A Glance
an approach again whereas men will
muscle the boat into a slip. Thats why
they invented rub rails, right?
Take turns at the helm. Its her boat,
too. Couples that split helm time
find a new respect for each other
and can better anticipate the chal-
lenges of wind, tide and how the
boat moves in response to throttle
changes. Besides, her basic survival
instinct wants reassurance that if he
bumps his head, shell know how to
return to land.
Aside from the mechanics, we learned
that a good rehearsal was also the key
to solid teamwork. From launching or
casting off lines at the dock to plan-
ning what to do in the event you run
out of gas (not that I would ever admit
to such an oversight), rehearsing your
steps verbally as a team makes you
better prepared to work in sync.
continued on page 10
Take your family on a boating
adventure they will
never forget...
Ontario is a boaters paradise with a quarter million lakes, countless rivers and bays. No wonder
Ontario is known as the best cruising grounds in the world.
Explore a scenic passageway, spend a few days in an isolated anchorage or discover a new
waterfront community - an exciting destination is just a short trip away no matter what direction
your compass is pointed.
Summertime is for making memories. With a boat, family fun is only a splash away. Get out on
the water and make 2009 a summer to remember! Visit boating-ontario.com today to plan
your adventure.
www.boating-ontario.com
Contact Boating Ontario to receive your FREE
2009 Boating Ontario Directory (marinas & destinations guide) - 705-549-1667
8 L I F E I S B E T T E R W I T H A B O A T
By Ian Gilson
WHEN SO MANY of the items on
which we spend money have to do
with the day-to-day necessities of
life, its refreshing to consider a pur-
chase made purely for pleasure. Like
so many others, youve yearned to
experience the tranquility and sense
of freedom that skippering your own
boat provides. You also want to
build memories of wonderful experi-
ences shared by your whole family.
At the same time, you realize that
this is a purchase best made with
careful planning. Youll find many
resources that can help you navigate
through the process on Discover
Boating.ca under the Buying A Boat
section.
Deciding what type of boat best suits
your familys interests is the first step.
The good news is that there is certain-
ly a type and style of boat to suit all
tastes. Sit down with the family and
decide how you would like to use
your boat. Everyone should have a
say! Does your fancy lean to power or
sail? Is the aim to fish, cruise, race,
engage in tow-sports, entertain or all
of the above? How many people
(family/friends) will be aboard at any
one time? How often will you use
your boat and when?
Where you plan to boat is another
consideration of prime importance. If
the aim is to venture to different lakes
and rivers, youll need to factor a trail-
er into your purchase and ensure that
your vehicle has sufficient towing
capacity. Also, different styles of boats
are more or less suited to big water
like the ocean or the Great Lakes.
Now that youve thoroughly explored
your wants and needs, product
research becomes the key. A great
deal of useful information is available
Taking the Plunge
TIPS ON BUYING YOUR FIRST BOAT
9
at DiscoverBoating.ca. Of particular
use is the boat selector tool to help
you pare down the types and styles of
boats to a short list that matches your
criteria. Other resources like boat
shows, expert opinions and published
boat reviews should also be sought for
the purpose of selecting the final few.
Many different options exist when it
comes to powering your craft.
Depending on size and style, these can
include outboard, sterndrive, jet-drive,
electric or diesel. The decision
becomes even more complex when
the choice of single or twin-engine
configurations is thrown into the mix.
While your local dealer can help you
sort through the relative attributes of
each, a good rule of thumb when it
comes to horsepower is to favour the
higher end of the maximum limit for
your boat. Though smaller engines
can translate to lower fuel consump-
tion, nothing is more disappointing
than to find out that your new boat
hasnt got the horses necessary to
power your planned activity.
Inadequately powered boats are also
often harder to sell once youve decid-
ed to move-up.
Boat prices vary considerably based on
style, construction, make and features.
Unlike vehicles, however, lending
institutions will often permit loans to
be amortized over considerably longer
periods resulting in more affordable
monthly payment amounts. Down-
payment requirements will vary based
on market conditions and other pur-
chase incentives. Often, financing
through institutions familiar with
marine financing will make the
process easy and speed up any time
involved in processing the loan appli-
cation. Dealerships most often have
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10 L I F E I S B E T T E R W I T H A B O A T
Nautical Terms
DRAFT: The depth of water a boat draws.
FENDER: A cushion, placed between boats, or between a
boat and a pier, to prevent damage.
FLARE: The outward curve of a vessel's sides near the bow.
A distress signal.
FLOORBOARDS: The surface of the cockpit on which the
crew stand.
FORWARD: Toward the bow of the boat.
FOULED: Any piece of equipment that is jammed or
entangled, or dirtied.
GALLEY: The kitchen area of a boat.
GANGWAY: The area of a ship's side where people board
and disembark.
GEAR: A general term for ropes, blocks, tackle and other
equipment.
GUNWALE: The upper edge of a boat's sides.
HATCH: An opening in a boat's deck fitted with a
watertight cover.
HEAD: A marine toilet. Also the upper corner of a
triangular sail.
HEADING: The direction in which a vessel's bow points at
any given time.
HEADWAY: The forward motion of a boat. Opposite
of sternway.
HELM: The wheel or tiller controlling the rudder.
HELMSPERSON: The person who steers the boat.
HULL: The main body of a vessel.
INBOARD: More toward the centre of a vessel; inside; a
motor fitted inside a boat.
KEEL: The centreline of a boat running fore and aft; the
backbone of a vessel.
KNOT: A measure of speed equal to one nautical mile
(6,076 feet) per hour.
LATITUDE: The distance north or
south of the equator measured
and expressed in degrees.
LAZARETTE: A storage space in a
boat's stern area.
LEE: The side sheltered from the wind.
LEEWARD: The direction away from the
wind. Opposite of windward.
pre-established financing partners and
will handle the administrative tasks.
Ongoing costs also tend to compare
favourably against automobiles in that
many on-water activities dont involve
running the engine continuously. With
sailboats, the engine is run even less.
A variety of insurance coverages are
available each attracting different pre-
miums. A plan that provides full-
replacement coverage in the event of
an accident, though slightly more
costly, is generally preferable.
When considering the various aspects
of your overall purchase, be sure to
consider and plan for where you will
keep your boat when not in use.
Renting a slip in a local marina is an
obvious choice for owners of larger
boats. The convenience of being able
to hop in ones boat and go at whim
often attracts owners of smaller craft
as well. Charges are normally based
on a combination of the amenities
offered and the square footage of the
space occupied by your boat.
Keeping the boat and trailer in your
driveway is the least expensive solu-
tion for in-season storage. (Be sure to
check your local bylaws that may
prohibit this option.)
A variety of off-season storage options
also exist from shrink-wrapped exter-
nal storage to ambient and heated
indoor storage. Pricing for these
options is often based on hull length.
Larger boats occupying covered mari-
na slips are often lifted on slings and
blocked above the waterline during
the off-season. When you are ready to
find the storage solution that works
for you, be sure to talk to a nearby
dealer, marina or yacht club. One of
them will be right for you.
When it comes to whether to buy a
new or pre-owned boat, a number of
items have to be considered. These
include price differential, warranty,
interest rate, depreciation, licensing, as
well as how long you plan to keep
your boat. Whether buying new or
pre-owned, its easier to compare fea-
tures on new boats as alternative mod-
els are readily available for evaluation.
Should you decide to buy a pre-
owned boat, you can enlist the aid of a
broker to help you locate the exact
boat youre looking for in your desired
price range. The brokers fees are
borne by the seller and therefore free
to the purchaser. Once youve found
your ideal boat, it is highly advisable
to have a marine survey performed.
(Indeed, your insurance company may
insist on this step as a way of objec-
tively determining the true value of
the boat.) At a cost of $8-$10 per lin-
ear foot, this is an inexpensive way to
ensure that the boat you are about to
purchase doesnt have unforeseen
problems that could cost you dearly to
resolve post-sale. You can find a
marine surveyor near you by visiting
www.marinesurvey.org.
At the point where youve found the
boat of your dreams and youre satis-
fied you have a good grasp on all
related costs, one final step rounds
out the process. Where possible, take
the boat out for a test run. Try it out
on the same types of activities that
youll be enjoying on a long-term
basis. If all passes muster, congratula-
tions. You and your family are ready
to embark on an exciting new phase
of your lives. Oh, and dont forget the
camera to record those memories in
the making.
continued on page 14
continued from page 6
Brought to you by the members of the BC Marine Trades Association
Boating in British Columbia...
Visit
www.bcmta.com
for all your boating needs
It just doesn't get
any better than this!
12 L I F E I S B E T T E R W I T H A B O A T
Knowing the Ropes
By Peter Garapick
SO, YOURE ABOUT to get out on the water for a cruise to the other side of the
lake, across the bay, up the river or perhaps to absolutely nowhere but just to
spend a great day boating. Getting away from it all no snarled up traffic, no
intersections, traffic lights and no lines on roads. On one hand, thats what
makes boating such a great activity pure freedom. On the other hand, how do
you know how to get from A to B if there is just wide open blue water? How do
you know who has right of way if you are coming closer and closer to another
boat? How do you know where the shoals are if they are hiding under the
surface of the water?
KNOW BEFORE YOU GO
By Ian Gilson
Youve found your ideal first boat, the financing is in place
and you can hardly wait to start enjoying new boating expe-
riences with your family and friends. Believe it or not, its
also great fun for those of us who have been boaters for
some time to watch newcomers discover that same passion
for being on the water.
Much as the Welcome Wagon has for years welcomed
families who have recently moved to a new neighbourhood,
your new nautical neighbours would likely want to provide
you with a few tips to help ensure that your upcoming
adventures are both fun and safe.
Their local knowledge will help safeguard both you and
your family while, at the same time, maximizing your com-
fort and enjoyment when out in your boat.
For more information, some excellent
resources are listed on page 6.
13
Boating takes place in its own environ-
ment and with that comes a lot of
signs, symbols and signals that at first
we may not understand but in fact tell
us everything we need to know to get
to where we are going and back again.
You just have to speak the language,
so to speak.
Rules of the Road seems an odd
term for boats on the water, but simi-
lar to cars, boats have prescribed
courses to take when coming into
close proximity with each other. First,
dont! If there is lots of room on the
water, make your course changes early
and obvious show the other boater
where you intend to go so that he or
she can show you where they plan to
go and you all steer clear. If you do
have to pass close to each other, then
pass port-to-port. Sounds foreign
until you learn that port is the nautical
term for left and that is the way we
pass each other on land roads in cars.
Thats easy to remember.
If you are catching up to another
boat and you are going pass them,
you have to keep clear of them. Make
sure they see you before getting too
close and if they arent watching, give
a blast on your horn to get their
attention. Then, leave lots of space as
you pass them. You can do so to
either side as there are no rules for
this as long as there is enough room
for everyone.
It gets a little trickier when you and
another boat are on that proverbial
collision course no one is overtaking
the other and you are not going to
pass in opposite directions; you are
going to end up at the same spot at
the same time coming from different
directions. The rule here is if they are
coming from your right (starboard)
side, they have right of way, that is,
you have to keep clear of them. If they
are coming from somewhere off your
left (port) side, they have to keep clear
of you.
The final rule in any of these cases is
if, for whatever reason the other boat
that is supposed to keep clear of you
is not keep clear of them! Reduce
your speed, make a turn, avoid a colli-
sion and continue your enjoyable day
on the water.
Another phrase that is often heard on
the water is Sail over Power! What
this means is that sailboats that are
only under-sail (not using their
engines) have the right of way over all
powered recreational boats. Stay clear
of sailboats and dont forget your wake
regardless of the type of the other boat
getting rocked around by someone
passing too close is never a pleasant
experience.
So if the Rules of the Road help tell
who keeps clear of whom, what tells
boaters where rocks and shoals are
since they are below the surface of the
water? This is where all those buoys
come in red, green, red and green,
yellow and black and even white with
orange symbols! Buoys come in many
different shapes and colours and
14
Nautical Terms
LEEWAY: The sideways movement of the boat caused by
either wind or current.
LINE: Rope and cordage used aboard a vessel.
LOG: A record of courses or operation. Also, a device to
measure speed.
LONGITUDE: The distance in degrees east or west of the
meridian at Greenwich, England.
MIDSHIP: Approximately in the location equally distant from
the bow and stern.
MOORING: An arrangement for securing a boat to a mooring
buoy or a pier.
NAUTICAL MILE: One minute of latitude; approximately
6,076 feet about 1/8 longer than the statute mile of
5,280 feet.
NAVIGATION: The art and science of conducting a boat
safely from one point to another.
OUTBOARD: Toward or beyond the boat's sides. A detach-
able engine mounted on a boat's stern.
OVERBOARD: Over the side or out of the boat.
PILOTING: Navigation by use of visible references, the depth
of the water, etc.
PLANING: A boat is said to be planing when it is essentially
moving over the top of the water rather than through
the water.
PORT: The left side of a boat looking forward. A harbour.
RUDDER: A vertical plate or board for steering a boat.
RUN: To allow a line to feed freely.
RUNNING LIGHTS: Lights required to be shown on boats
underway between sundown and sunup.
SATELLITE NAVIGATION: A form of position finding using
radio transmissions from satellites with sophisticated
on-board automatic equipment.
SEAMANSHIP: All the arts and
skills of boat handling, ranging
from maintenence and repairs
to piloting, sail handling
and rigging.
SEA ROOM: A safe distance from the
shore or other hazards.
always indicate where you should go
and where you shouldnt. For the
most part you will see red ones with
pointed tops and/or green ones with
blunt tops. These are Lateral Buoys,
buoys that tell you to stay to one side
or the other. Although you have to
know whether you are coming or
going (entering a port or leaving
one), once you figure this out the
tried and tested rule of thumb is Red
Right Returning. In other words,
leave red buoys to your right when
returning to port. Not very nautical,
but it cuts the mustard.
Youll also see white buoys with
orange symbols which are known as
Control buoys controlling speed or
places you should stay out of such
as swimming areas. Yellow and black
buoys are known as Cardinal Buoys
and are a whole different kettle of
fish. They are, in fact, easier to
understand than Lateral Buoys since
you dont have to know whether you
are coming or going since just by
their colour scheme or shape, they
tell you where the good water is.
For example, a North Cardinal Buoy
is black on the upper half and yel-
low on the lower half with two
pointed caps on top, one above the
other. This means, stay to the north
of me and all will be well.
Then there are flags. We have all seen
ships flying colourful flags, hoisting
them from stem to stern to celebrate
something. Each of these flags has a
meaning though some just a particu-
lar letter of the alphabet, others very
prescriptive messages all by them-
selves. But here are a couple of very
important ones to know. One is the
flag that is divided in half vertically
with one white and one blue section.
The other is the flag that is red with a
diagonal white stripe. Both mean that
a diver is down in the area, perhaps
very deep or just below the surface
and out of sight but not out of reach
of propellers and skegs stay clear!
There are many more symbols, signals
and flags each associated with a partic-
ular meaning that ensures you and
others can boat safely on the water.
Learning all about them will make for
an enjoyable day on the water. Visit
DiscoverBoating.ca, or the Office of
Boating Safety web site (www.tc.gc.ca
/marinesafety/debs/obs/menu.htm), or
grab a Transport Canada Safe Boating
Guide to learn a bit, take a boating
course to learn all about them and
then get out on the water for a great
day of boating!
Lateral Buoys
Control Buoys
Cardinal Buoys
continued on page 20
continued from page 10
KNOW BEFORE YOU GO
Cold Water Can Take Your Breath Away
By Ted Rankine, Canadian Safe Boating Council
An unexpected fall into cold water can be a shock, causing
an immediate, uncontrolled gasp, severe enough that you
may inhale more than a litre of water if your head is sub-
merged. After the initial gasp, you will experience a period
of rapid hyperventilation with your respiration rate 6 to 10
times above normal. Do not panic, it will pass within a
minute or so. A lifejacket will help you survive
the initial cold water shock and give you the
time and opportunity for self rescue.
Wherever you go boating, breathe
easierwear a lifejacket.
L I F E I S B E T T E R W I T H A B O A T
All boating
under the same roof
With QMAs
new portal
To know everything on the
Montreal Boat and Water Sports
Show, visit:
WWW.SALONDUBATEAU.COM
Lakes guide
Marinas and water access
Boat rental
Beaches and water quality
Maps
Fishing
Boat showcase
Water sports
Boating directory
Documentation center
Everything to navigate
Quebec lakes and more!
WWW.NAUTISMEQUEBEC.COM
Quebec Marine Association
To be inform on the Association
and the boating industry news, visit:
To plan your next trip on
Quebecs waterways, visit:
CONTACT US
Quebec Marine Association (QMA)
1-877-560-1777
info@nautismequebec.com
News
Nautiguide
Member services
Quebec Nautical Stations
Quebec Marina Rating
Program
Documentation center
Eco-marinas
Discover Boating
Q&A
Useful links
WWW.NAVIGATIONQUEBEC.COM
16 L I F E I S B E T T E R W I T H A B O A T
By John Kerr
vs
Power Sail
THE DECISION TO make the move to
boating will evolve into the discus-
sion of whether you want to buy a
sailboat or a powerboat. The reality
is, at the end of the day, that the
decision is a personal choice and
youll find that you may need to
make a few trade-offs to make the
choice thats right for you.
The myth that one type of boating is
more expensive than another is just
that a myth. If youre considering
the basics of maintaining the infra-
structure like electronics, plumbing,
safety equipment and miscellaneous
live-aboard items you will find that
they are, for all intents and purposes,
equal. For example, the running costs
of power versus sail are fairly equal
when one compares items like sails,
masts, running rigging and winches
versus fuel to run a powerboat.
But there are some subtle differences
that need to be considered before you
step out into the sail or power world.
So, ask yourself this series of ques-
tions they will help to get you on
the right track.
Where are you planning
to go boating?
Are you boating close to home and
could you consider storing your boat
at home (in the garage or driveway)?
What key body of water are you going
to visit? For example, if youre plan-
ning to navigate BCs big open waters
or Lake Ontario, youll want a boat
that is large enough to do so with
ease. Considering where you want to
boat will ensure a better choice in the
long run.
Local knowledge is also key. Dont
ever be afraid to ask a boater you
know; we are all keen to help you find
the right answers. Local marine stores,
marinas and yacht clubs all provide
you with access to boaters with a
wealth of first hand experiences.
Typical input could include the nature
of the weather, winds, currents and
possible trips one could take. Good
facility and support knowledge is also
important to assess before you make
your final decision. Across Canada, for
the most part, both sail and power
facilities are abundant. But both types
of boats may require unique services,
such as cranes for mast stepping or
access to a good diesel mechanic.
Other considerations include boat
ramps and locations, entertainment
and accommodation nearby, marine
haul-out capability and/or repairs and
maintenance. You can find compre-
hensive lists of marinas and ramps on
DiscoverBoating.ca to get you started.
vs
17
What activities do you plan
to enjoy on your boat?
The nature of the boating provides
many options: fishing; cruising
overnight; day-tripping; cottage use;
and sailboat racing. What you do with
your boat will greatly influence
whether it is a power or sailboat. If
youre planning to sleep onboard your
boat, youll want to consider that the
live aboard space on a 32-foot power-
boat is probably equal to that of a 40-
foot sailboat.
Who are you going boating with?
Whether it is family or friends, older
crew or kids, your crew will all influ-
ence the criteria for selection. Kids
will need space above and possibly
below decks, or height below might
be an important requirement for you.
The good news about boating is that
although there are so many choices to
make, there is a solution for every
need. But think it through. How many
people are you likely to have on board
at any one time? Are pets a considera-
tion? Small children? Grandparents?
By planning ahead you can be sure to
choose the perfect boat for all your
needs. In fact, you can also use the boat
selector tool on DiscoverBoating.ca to
help you narrow down your choices.
What is your initial
and ongoing budget?
Really think this through before you
make the final choice. The trailerable
sail or powerboat might be a better
place to start before making a commit-
ment to a club or marina. Depending
on your boat type or size you could
possibly consider dry stacking (vs. own-
ing or renting a slip) that can greatly
lower your cost options,where available.
Make sure to take the time to consider
all the costs involved. Boats by nature
just like cars need care and main-
tenance for reliable and safe operation.
No matter what size or type of boat
you choose, youll want to be sure you
understand the ongoing running costs
related to things like winterizing, stor-
age, launch, dockage, fuel, repairs,
improvements or even upgrades.
What dont you know?
Once you have decided whether
power or sail the most important
decision to make is getting the proper
education. The boating fraternity
offers some great courses. In Canada
there are many educators, and you
can get started on a list of Transport
Canada accredited course providers
on DiscoverBoating.ca. Visit a local
marina and talk to the people there.
Youll find the boating community is
friendly and knowledgeable and more
than happy to talk to you about how
to get started in boating, whatever
your preferred boat type. Whatever
you decide, we hope to see you on
the water!
>> another day on the water >>
PROTEXION BY
The Atlantic Marine Trades
Association (AMTA) is the
official voice of the recreational
boating industry in Canadas
Maritime Provinces.
With Atlantic Canadas spectacular
coastline, abundant lakes and many
navigable rivers, its not surprising
that we have a flourishing recreational
marine industry.
Find out more about us by visiting
boatinginatlanticcanada.com
18 L I F E I S B E T T E R W I T H A B O A T
Joining a Yacht Club or Marina
By Elizabeth A Kerr
As a new boater, you may feel its nec-
essary to be part of a yacht club or
marina to go boating, but in fact there
are many other options. As a trailer
boater or cottage owner, all you really
need is access (and a ramp) to the
body of water youre boating on. That,
and a place to get your boat pumped
out, gassed, maintained, repaired and
stored (for the winter) is all you really
need to get you started.
If you are looking to be a part of an
existing boating community, you can
find that through either the local mari-
na or yacht club. While many people
think that marinas are for power-
boaters and yacht clubs are for sailors,
you may in fact find that this is simply
not the case. Either/or, the following is
an alphabetical list of some of the
things you should consider when
selecting a yacht club or marina.
Accommodations Nearby
Even although your intent is to spend
time on the boat, its always nice to
know that there is a cozy room nearby
during a bad storm or when extra
friends and family show up.
Annual & Monthly Dues
In most cases, there is an annual fee.
This fee varies vastly depending on
location and the facilities offered and
are charged annually, seasonally,
and/or monthly.
Camping and Picnic Areas
Extra space for overnight guests and
options are always nice to have.
Car Parking
For boat-access only cottages, this
is extremely useful, however there
is usually an additional fee charged
for this!
Chandlery
Whether for provisioning and/or for last
minute purchases and needed parts, a
local chandlery (or marine-focused retail
store) can be very convenient.
Childrens Activities
This will depend on your own familys
demographics. Some clubs and mari-
nas do offer childrens camps and pro-
grams throughout the summer.
Dining On Site or Nearby
Its always nice to give the cook a
break once and a while.
Education
As the Pleasure Craft Operator Card
(PCOC) deadline looms and the
awareness for boating safety increas-
es, many more marinas and clubs
are offering boating courses. Be sure
you seek out an accredited course
provider!
Family/Social Activities
Family and friends who join you on
your boat may be more than enough
entertainment. However, people new
to boating may welcome a ready-made
party or group outing. Its a great way
to meet new boaters.
Food Minimum Requirements
Some marina and clubs bill a mini-
mum food amount on a monthly or
quarterly basis, whether you actually
consume anything or not. Just make
sure you understand the terms.
Fuel
Boaters need fuel. Its nice to know its
there when you do.
Initiation Fees
Some marina and clubs have appli-
cation requirements, including initi-
ation fees that vary widely across the
country.
Launch and Haul Out Ramps
Like fuel, its nice to know you
dont have to go far to launch or
J

20 L I F E I S B E T T E R W I T H A B O A T
Nautical Terms
SEAWORTHY: A boat or a boat's gear able to meet the usual
sea conditions.
SECURE: To make fast.
SET: Direction toward which the current is flowing.
SLACK: Not fastened; loose. Also, to loosen.
SOUNDING: A measurement of the depth of water.
SPRING LINE: A pivot line used in docking, undocking, or to
prevent the boat from moving forward or astern while made
fast to a dock.
SQUALL: A sudden, violent wind often accompanied by rain.
STARBOARD: The right side of a boat when looking forward.
STEM: The forward most part of the bow.
STERN: The after part of the boat.
STERN LINE: A docking line leading from the stern.
STOW: To put an item in its proper place.
TIDE: The periodic rise and fall of water level in the oceans.
TILLER: A bar or handle for turning a boat's rudder or an
outboard motor.
TOPSIDES: The sides of a vessel between the waterline and
the deck; sometimes referring to onto or above the deck.
TRANSOM: The stern cross-section of a square
sterned boat.
TRIM: Fore and aft balance of a boat.
UNDERWAY: Vessel in motion (i.e., when not moored, at
anchor, or aground).
WAKE: Moving waves, track or path that a boat leaves
behind it, when moving across the waters.
WATERLINE: A line painted on a hull which shows the point
to which a boat sinks when it is
properly trimmed.
WINDWARD: Toward the
direction from which the wind
is coming.
For a full glossary of boating terms go to:
DiscoverBoating.ca
haul out your boat.
Maintenance and Repair
Many marinas offer maintenance and
repair services. Fewer yacht clubs have
this available onsite but are more than
likely linked to or affiliated with a
nearby outlet that can help you.
Overnight/Seasonal Dockage
This varies from club to club and
marina to marina and is often avail-
able on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Provisioning Nearby
Although you might opt to buy locally
before you leave on your boating
excursion, its very useful to know that
there is a local grocery store for those
last minute ingredients, cravings and
ice cream!
Proximity to Your Home
or Cottage
As the price of gas continues to con-
tribute to the cost of boating on and
off the water, minimizing the distance
between activities is one more way to
keep costs inline.
Pumpouts
Like fuel and launch pads, its nice to
know you dont have to go far to
pumpout.
Reciprocal Clubs
Many marinas and yacht clubs have
relationships with other clubs around
the lake and across the country that
enable you to enjoy the services of
these other reciprocal clubs at a nom-
inal cost (and sometimes free).
Sports & Fitness Facilities
Many marinas and yacht clubs have
tennis courts and shuffleboard
courts. Some, particularly year-
round clubs, also offer fitness facili-
ties, spa services, swimming pools,
and indoor racquet sports.
Telephone and Internet Service
Although many of us have cell phones
and wireless computers that we take
with us wherever we go, access to tele-
phones and Internet services allow us
to take care of things on shore, and
really enjoy our boating activities
without interruption.
Types of Boats
Marinas and yacht clubs have a wide
variety of power and sailboats,
depending on availability and length
of slips. Make sure that the marinas or
yacht clubs you are considering can
accommodate yours.
Washrooms and Showers
Not all boats are equipped with wash-
rooms and/or showers, so be sure to
ask about this and plan ahead!
Water and Ice
Not all boats are equipped with
galleys. Ice and water on hand is a
bonus!
Winterizing and Winter Storage
The Canadian boater typically enjoys a
great boating season and knowing that
your boat is going to be properly win-
terized and stored when the boating
season is over eases ones mind.
Year-Round Access
Some clubs and marinas stay open
after the boating season ends offering
other activities to while away the win-
ter blues.
Joining a yacht club or marina is a
very personal choice. By spending a
little time doing some research
before you settle in youll be sure to
find that community thats right for
you. You can find a good list of
marinas and ramps that are nearby
by checking the listings on
DiscoverBoating.ca.
J

continued from page 14

22 L I F E I S B E T T E R W I T H A B O A T
The Pleasure Craft
Operator Card
By Peter Garapick
To some, the question of boat operator
training is not even a question, its a
given. To others, the idea of any sort
of boat training is seen as an imposi-
tion that impacts their freedom to
cruise the waters at will.
In the 90s, statistics showed that there
were some basic issues occurring regu-
larly that were leading to unnecessary
boating incidents. Predominantly they
involved males between 18 and 55,
sometimes involved alcohol, and in
serious cases were just caused by neg-
ligence and not wearing a lifejacket.
Ultimately, the government with
huge support from police agencies and
boating associations determined that
it would be in the best interest of
Canadians to require some sort of
training before heading out on the
water. They worked with existing
boating associations and created basic
requirements for a boating course that
would ensure that all boaters in
Canada would have a similar apprecia-
tion for the basics of boating safety.
Beginning in 1999, the The Pleasure
Craft Operator Card (PCOC) regula-
tions were phased in over 10 years.
First, anyone born after April 1, 1983
required the card in 1999 this was
aimed at the young people less than
16 years of age just getting into boat-
ing with the hope they would start
their boating adventures off in a safety
minded manner. Note: This date was
anchored which means that today
anyone who is 26 years or younger
should already have their PCOC.
Next in 2002, anyone operating a ves-
sel less than 4 metres required their
card this targeted smaller, open
boats as well as the exploding num-
bers of fast and exciting Personal
Water Craft that were just entering
into the market at that time. Finally,
after 10 years, anyone and everyone
operating a power-driven recreational
boat required the card.
That brings us to today, the boating
season of 2009. The date to have your
card is September 15th, 2009. Not
having your card will result in a fine
of $250.00. Getting the card can cost
as little as $35. There are several
options available to get your PCOC
from a Transport Canada accredited
provider. You can take the exam in
your local community, while youre
visiting a boat or outdoor show, or
even online. Transport Canada has
now changed the regulations to allow
online PCOC exams to be taken under
the guidance of a qualified Supervisor.
Statistics now show clearly that the
overall impact of the PCOC has
been positive. By working together,
the government, enforcement and
safety agencies, course providers and
the boaters who have embraced it
have all shown a clear improvement
in boating incidents.
There is no question that now that
boaters either have their card or know
they need to get it or pay $250 for not
having it; today, many more boaters
have safety on their minds when they
walk down the dock to go boating.
Finding an accredited course pro-
vider is easy. Youll find a link from
DiscoverBoating.ca under Getting
Started. Scout around and evaluate
the course providers and their prod-
ucts. Purchase one of the better course
manuals and either home study
around the kitchen table with the fam-
ily or sign em all up for a one-day
course. Then, when you write the test
and pass, not only do you have your
PCOC in your pocket, you truly have
a bunch of boating safety information
in your head.
Its 2009; you need your PCOC.
Doing nothing may cost you $250 or
worse, a really bad day on the water.
Spending a few dollars today to learn
to be that much safer on the water will
be worth more than every penny.
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