BOATsmart! Canada
Knowledge Base

Module 05 - Navigation and Right-of-Way Rules

Boating in Rivers and Canals

Operating a boat or PWC on a river is different than operating on an open waterway since rivers can have their own unique hazards including currents, and rapidly changing water levels.

Strong currents can make it more difficult to steer your boat, and can affect your boat’s handling characteristics, while rapidly changing water levels can expose (or hide) underwater hazards including rocks, trees and sunken islands. Keep an eye out for these hazards when operating on rivers.

Remember: If you’re approaching a blind turn or narrow channel, you must always keep as far to the starboard (right) side of the waterway as possible. In addition, if two boats are approaching each other in a narrow channel where there are dangerous currents, the boat traveling downstream will always have the right of way.

Canal Navigation

A canal is a manmade waterway in which the water depth can be controlled. Canals are generally larger than channels.

Remember, when you’re operating in a canal the following regulations apply:

Keep to the starboard (right) side of the canal whenever possible
If your boat is under 20 m in length, you should always give-way to larger less maneuverable boats
Excessive noise is not permitted between 11pm and 6am
Never moor your boat to a navigation aid
Fishing is not permitted within 10 m of a lock, or from a bridge that passes over a navigation channel
It is illegal to dive, jump, scuba-dive, or swim within 40 m of a lock gate or dam.

Always use extra caution when operating near canal dams. They can have strong currents and undertows which are extremely dangerous. Always steer clear of these areas, and adjust your steering to compensate for any strong currents, especially if you’re operating a smaller boat.