BOATsmart! Canada
Knowledge Base

BOAT OPERATOR:

The person who is in control of the boat, and is responsible for its operation. As a boat operator, you are responsible for yourself, your passengers (guests), your vessel, and the safety of other boaters.

PLEASURE CRAFT:

A boat that is used only for pleasure or recreation. If the boat carries goods or passengers (guests) for profit, it is a ‘commercial craft’ and must follow different rules and regulations.

'POWER-DRIVEN' CRAFT:

Any boat powered by a motor or engine, including motorized sailboats.

'NON-POWERED' CRAFT:

A boat that operates without a motor or engine, such as a canoe, rowboat, or sailboat under the power of sail.

'SAILING VESSEL' OR 'SAILBOAT':

A boat that is under the power of sail. If a sailboat is powered with an engine it is considered a motorized boat, and must follow the same rules and regulations that apply to ‘power-driven’ boats.

'PERSONAL WATERCRAFT' (PWC):

This boat type is equipped with an inboard engine and is powered by a jet-propulsion system. They have unique handling characteristics because of their size and method of power.

Boaters must know the difference between 'power-driven', 'sail-powered' and 'non-powered' craft. Different navigation and equipment rules apply for each boat type.