F.A.Q.

If You’re Importing a Pleasure Craft, Get a New Pleasure Craft Licence
 

In the event that you’re importing a vessel into Canada that you’re going to use mostly in Canada, you must either get a new pleasure craft licence or register your vessel. 

 

No vessel can legally be licenced or registered in both Canada and another country. 

 

All old markings have to be removed before you put the new licence number on there. You must do this even if the new numbers are not in the same area as the old marking numbers. Failing to do so will subject you to fines. 

 

Use this link to apply for a pleasure craft licence. 

 

Use this link to apply for Canadian vessel documentation.

 
More Help With Boat Documentation and Importing a Boat 
 

If you would like more help, our site can be of assistance. There, you can find forms for registration, licencing, and more. These laws may also be of value to you and your current situation: 

 

Registration, Listing and Recording

Interpretation

Definition of Minister

41 In this Part, Minister means the Minister of Transport.

Canadian Register of Vessels and Registrars

Marginal note:

Appointment of Chief Registrar

42 An officer, to be known as the Chief Registrar, is to be appointed or deployed under the Public Service Employment Act.

Marginal note:

Duties and powers of Chief Registrar

43 (1) The Chief Registrar is responsible for establishing and maintaining a register to be known as the Canadian Register of Vessels. The Chief Registrar is to divide the Register into parts, including a small vessel register, for the classes of vessels that the Chief Registrar specifies.
Marginal note:
Records
(2) The Register is to contain records of the information and documents specified by the Chief Registrar in respect of a Canadian vessel or a fleet that is registered under this Part, including its description, its official number, the name and address of its owner and, in the case of a vessel that is not registered in the small vessel register, details of all mortgages registered in respect of it.


2001, c. 26, s. 43
2011, c. 15, s. 38

Previous Version

Marginal note:

Registrars

44 (1) The Chief Registrar may appoint the registrars that the Chief Registrar considers necessary.
Marginal note:
Duties of registrars
(2) A registrar is to perform the duties and fulfill the responsibilities that the Chief Registrar assigns to the registrar.

Marginal note:

Immunity

45 The Chief Registrar and the registrars are not personally liable for anything they do or omit to do in good faith under this Act.

Registration, Listing and Recording

Marginal note:

Mandatory registration of vessels

46 (1) Unless it is exempted under the regulations, a vessel must be registered under this Part if it

(a) is not a pleasure craft;
(b) is wholly owned by qualified persons; and
(c) is not registered, listed or otherwise recorded in a foreign state.


Marginal note:
Owner’s obligation
(2) Every owner of a vessel that is required by subsection (1) to be registered under this Part shall ensure that it is so registered.
Marginal note:
Mandatory registration — government vessels
(3) Every government vessel must be registered under this Part.


2001, c. 26, s. 46
2011, c. 15, s. 39

Previous Version

Marginal note:

Optional registration

47 Unless they are registered, listed or otherwise recorded in a foreign state, the following vessels may be registered under this Part:

(a) a pleasure craft that is wholly owned by qualified persons;
(a.1) a vessel that is exempted under the regulations from the registration requirement in subsection 46(1) and that is wholly owned by qualified persons;
(b) a vessel that is owned by a corporation incorporated under the laws of a foreign state if one of the following is acting with respect to all matters relating to the vessel, namely,

(i) a subsidiary of the corporation incorporated under the laws of Canada or a province,
(ii) an employee or a director in Canada of a branch office of the corporation that is carrying on business in Canada, or
(iii) a ship management company incorporated under the laws of Canada or a province; and


(c) a vessel that is in the exclusive possession of a qualified person under a financing agreement under which the person will acquire ownership on completion of the agreement.


2001, c. 26, s. 47
2011, c. 15, s. 40

Previous Version

Marginal note:

Bare-boat chartered vessels

48 A vessel that is registered in a foreign state and that is bare-boat chartered exclusively to a qualified person may be listed under this Part as a bare-boat chartered vessel for the duration of the charter if, for the duration of the charter, the registration is suspended in respect of the right to fly the flag of that state.

Marginal note:

Vessels under construction

49 A vessel that is about to be built or that is under construction in Canada may be temporarily recorded in the Register as a vessel being built in Canada.

Marginal note:

Vessels built outside Canada

50 Notwithstanding sections 46 to 48, the Minister may direct the Chief Registrar to refuse to register or list a vessel built outside Canada.

Application

Marginal note:

Application

51 (1) An application for the registration, listing or recording of a vessel must be made in the form and manner, include the information and be accompanied by the documents specified by the Chief Registrar.
Marginal note:
Further evidence
(2) In addition to the specified information and documents, the Chief Registrar may require an applicant to provide evidence, including declarations, that the Chief Registrar considers necessary to establish that a vessel is required or entitled to be registered or is entitled to be listed or recorded.

Names of Vessels

Marginal note:

Before registration or listing

52 (1) Every vessel, other than one to be registered in the small vessel register, must be named in the form and manner specified by the Chief Registrar before it is registered or listed.
Marginal note:
Approval of names
(2) The Chief Registrar may, on application, approve the name of a vessel before it is registered or listed and approve a change in the name of a Canadian vessel.
Marginal note:
Disallowance of names
(3) The Chief Registrar must disallow a name if

(a) it is the same as the name of a Canadian vessel;
(b) it is likely, in the opinion of the Chief Registrar, to be confused with the name of a Canadian vessel or with a distress signal;
(c) it is likely, in the opinion of the Chief Registrar, to be offensive to members of the public; or
(d) its use is prohibited under an Act of Parliament.


Marginal note:
Requiring renaming
(4) The Minister may order that a Canadian vessel be renamed if the Minister considers that its name would prejudice the international reputation of Canada.

Ownership of Vessels

Marginal note:

Shares

53 (1) For the purposes of registration, the property in a vessel is divided into 64 shares.
Marginal note:
Registered owners
(2) Subject to subsections (3) and (4), only owners or joint owners of a vessel or of one or more shares in a vessel may be registered in the Register as owners of the vessel or shares, as the case may be.
Marginal note:
Registered owners — financing agreements
(3) In the case of a vessel described in paragraph 47(c) (a vessel subject to a financing agreement), the persons referred to in that paragraph are to be registered in the Register as the owners of the vessel.
Marginal note:
Bare-boat charterers
(4) In the case of a vessel described in section 48 (a bare-boat chartered vessel), no person may be registered in the Register as an owner of the vessel.
Marginal note:
Registration of joint owners
(5) No more than five persons may be registered in the Register as joint owners of a vessel or a share in a vessel.
Marginal note:
Disposition of registered joint interests
(6) A registered jointly owned interest in a vessel or a share in a vessel may be disposed of only by the joint owners acting together.
Marginal note:
Registration of fractions prohibited
(7) No person may be registered as the owner of a fractional part of a share in a vessel.
Marginal note:
No effect on beneficial owners
(8) This section does not affect the beneficial interests of a person represented by or claiming through an owner of a vessel or a share in a vessel.
Marginal note:
Trusts not recognized
(9) No notice of a trust may be entered in the Register.

Certificates

Marginal note:

Certificates of registry

54 (1) If the Chief Registrar is satisfied that all of the requirements of registration or listing have been met with respect to a vessel, the Chief Registrar must register or list the vessel, as the case may be, in the Register and issue a certificate of registry.
Marginal note:
Information
(2) Every certificate of registry in respect of a vessel must contain the information specified by the Chief Registrar, including

(a) its description;
(b) its official number; and
(c) the name and address of

(i) in the case of a vessel described in paragraph 47(b) (a vessel owned by a foreign corporation), the authorized representative,
(ii) in the case of a vessel described in section 48 (a bare-boat chartered vessel), the bare-boat charterer, and
(iii) in any other case, its owner and the authorized representative.




Marginal note:
Period of validity
(3) Every certificate of registry is valid for the period specified by the Chief Registrar.

Marginal note:

Provisional certificates

55 (1) The Chief Registrar may, on application, issue a provisional certificate in respect of a vessel that is required or entitled to be registered under this Part if

(a) the vessel is in a foreign port and a person intends to register it under this Part; or
(b) the vessel is in a port in Canada and the Chief Registrar is satisfied that permission to operate the vessel should be granted before a certificate of registry can be issued.


Marginal note:
Issuance
(2) The Chief Registrar may, on application, issue a provisional certificate in respect of a vessel that is not required or entitled to be registered under this Part if the Chief Registrar is satisfied that the vessel needs to undergo sea trials.
Marginal note:
Validity
(3) A provisional certificate is valid for the purpose and the period specified by the Chief Registrar.
Marginal note:
Application
(4) An application for a provisional certificate must be made in the form and manner, include the information and be accompanied by the documents specified by the Chief Registrar.

Marginal note:

Lost certificates

56 If a certificate of registry or provisional certificate is mislaid, lost or destroyed, the Chief Registrar must issue a replacement certificate of registry or provisional certificate, as the case may be, on application made by the authorized representative or owner in the form and manner and including the information and accompanied by the documents specified by the Chief Registrar.

2001, c. 26, s. 56
2023, c. 26, s. 366

Previous Version

Marginal note:

Refusal to issue, renew or amend certificate

56.1 Despite any other provision of this Act, the Chief Registrar may refuse to issue, in respect of a vessel, a certificate of registry, a provisional certificate or a replacement certificate of registry or provisional certificate, or to renew a certificate of registry or to amend one under paragraph 73(b), if the applicant for, or holder of, the certificate is in default of payment of a required fee, charge, cost or expense under this Act or the Wrecked, Abandoned or Hazardous Vessels Act in respect of that vessel.

2023, c. 26, s. 366

Marking

Marginal note:

Marking

57 (1) The authorized representative of a Canadian vessel shall, in the form and manner specified by the Chief Registrar, mark the vessel with its official number and any other information that the Chief Registrar specifies.
Marginal note:
Validity of certificate of registry
(2) A vessel’s certificate of registry is not valid until the vessel has been marked in accordance with subsection (1).
Marginal note:
Maintenance of markings
(3) The authorized representative shall ensure that the vessel is kept marked.
Marginal note:
Defacing, etc., markings
(4) No person shall wilfully deface, alter, conceal or remove the markings of a Canadian vessel.

Notifying Chief Registrar

Marginal note:

Notification of changes

58 (1) The authorized representative of a Canadian vessel shall notify the Chief Registrar within 30 days after any of the following occurs:

(a) the vessel is lost, wrecked or removed from service;
(b) there has been a change in the owner’s, the authorized representative’s or a registered mortgagee’s name or address;
(c) the information provided with the application under section 51 has changed; or
(d) in the case of a vessel described in section 48 (a bare-boat chartered vessel),

(i) the right to fly the flag of the foreign state is reinstated, or
(ii) the charterer ceases to have complete control and possession of the vessel.




Marginal note:
Notification of alterations
(2) If a Canadian vessel is altered to the extent that it no longer corresponds with its description or particulars set out on the certificate of registry, the authorized representative shall, within 30 days after the alteration, notify the Chief Registrar and provide the Chief Registrar with the relevant information and documents.
Marginal note:
Notification of changes
(3) If for any reason a Canadian vessel does not have an authorized representative, its owner shall

(a) notify the Chief Registrar of that fact as soon as possible in the circumstances; and
(b) notify the Chief Registrar within 30 days after any event referred to in subsection (1) or (2) occurs.


Marginal note:
Notification of completion of construction
(4) Within 30 days after completion of the construction of a vessel that is recorded as being built in Canada, the person in whose name the vessel is recorded shall notify the Chief Registrar of that fact and of the name and address of its owner.


2001, c. 26, s. 58
2011, c. 15, s. 41(F)

Previous Version

Maintenance of Register

Marginal note:

Amendments

59 The Chief Registrar may amend the Register or a certificate of registry to give effect to changes of which the Chief Registrar has been notified under section 58 or to correct any clerical errors or obvious mistakes.

Suspension, Cancellation and Reinstatement of Registration

Marginal note:

Suspension and cancellation

60 (1) Subject to the regulations, the Chief Registrar may suspend or cancel the registration or listing of a Canadian vessel if

(a) it is not marked in accordance with subsection 57(1);
(b) its certificate of registry has expired;
(c) it does not have an authorized representative; or
(d) section 58 has not been complied with.


Marginal note:
Cancellation
(2) Subject to the regulations, the Chief Registrar must cancel the registration or listing of a Canadian vessel if

(a) it has been lost, wrecked or removed from service;
(b) it is no longer required or entitled to be registered or entitled to be listed under this Part; or
(c) in the case of a registered vessel, a tonnage certificate provided by a tonnage measurer indicates that the vessel should be re-registered.


Marginal note:
Notice before cancellation
(3) If a Canadian vessel is not required or entitled to be registered under this Part after its ownership changes, the Chief Registrar must, before canceling its registration under paragraph (2)(b), give the owners and registered mortgagees

(a) notice of the change in ownership; and
(b) an opportunity that, in the opinion of the Chief Registrar, is sufficient to transfer the vessel or shares in the vessel to a qualified person or to make an application under section 74.


Marginal note:
Cancellation of registration
(4) Except in the case of a vessel described in paragraph 47(c) (a vessel subject to a financing agreement), the Chief Registrar must cancel the registration of a vessel if a person who acquires the vessel or a share in it does not, within the prescribed period, provide evidence that satisfies the Chief Registrar that the vessel is required or entitled to be registered under this Part.

Marginal note:

Registration of mortgages not affected

61 The cancellation of the registration of a vessel does not affect the registration of mortgages in respect of the vessel.

Marginal note:

Reinstatement

62 The Chief Registrar may reinstate the registration or listing of a vessel if, in the Chief Registrar’s opinion, the registration or listing of the vessel should not have been canceled.

Custody of Certificates of Registry and Provisional Certificates

Marginal note:

Carrying on board

63 (1) Subject to subsection (3), no person shall operate a vessel in respect of which a certificate of registry or provisional certificate has been issued unless the certificate is on board.
Marginal note:
Delivery of certificate
(2) A person who is in possession of a vessel’s certificate of registry or provisional certificate shall deliver it to the person who is entitled to operate the vessel.
Marginal note:
Delivery of certificate
(3) A person who is in possession of a certificate of registry or a provisional certificate issued under this Part shall deliver it to the Chief Registrar on request.
Marginal note:
Detention of certificate
(4) A certificate of registry or provisional certificate is not subject to detention because of any title to, lien on, charge on or interest in the vessel that is claimed by an owner, a mortgagee, a charterer or an operator of the vessel, or by any other person.

Rights and Obligations

Marginal note:

Right to fly Canadian flag

64 (1) A Canadian vessel has the right to fly the Canadian flag.
Marginal note:
Obligation to fly flag
(2) The master of a Canadian vessel, other than one registered in the small vessel register, shall ensure that it flies the Canadian flag

(a) when signaled to do so by a government vessel or a vessel under the command of the Canadian Forces; or
(b) when entering or leaving, or while moored at or anchored in, a port.


Marginal note:
Exception
(3) The Chief Registrar may, on application, suspend the registration of a Canadian vessel in respect of the right to fly the Canadian flag while the vessel is shown on the registry of a foreign state as a bare-boat chartered vessel.

Mortgages

Marginal note:

Mortgage of vessel or share

65 (1) The owner of a vessel registered under this Part other than in the small vessel register, of a share in such a vessel or of a vessel recorded as being built in Canada may give the vessel or share, as the case may be, as security for a mortgage to be registered under this Part.
Marginal note:
Filing of mortgage
(2) A mortgage is to be filed with the Chief Registrar in the form and manner specified by the Chief Registrar.
Marginal note:
Date and time of registration
(3) A mortgage is to be registered in the order in which it is filed, indicating the date and time of registration.

Marginal note:

Entry of discharge of mortgage

66 On receipt of satisfactory evidence that a mortgage has been discharged, the Chief Registrar is to enter the discharge in the Register.

Marginal note:

Priority of mortgages

67 (1) If more than one mortgage is registered in respect of the same vessel or share in a vessel, a mortgage registered before another mortgage has priority over that other mortgage.
Marginal note:
Consent to change in priority
(2) The priority of mortgages may be changed if all of the mortgagees file their written consent with the Chief Registrar.

Marginal note:

Mortgagee not treated as owner

68 A mortgage of a vessel or a share in a vessel does not have the effect of the mortgagee becoming, or the mortgagor ceasing to be, the owner of the vessel, except to the extent necessary to make the vessel or share available as security under the mortgage.

Marginal note:

Mortgagee has power of sale

69 (1) A mortgagee of a vessel or a share in a vessel has the absolute power, subject to any limitation set out in the registered mortgage, to sell the vessel or the share.
Marginal note:
Restriction
(2) If there is more than one registered mortgage of the same vessel or share, a subsequent mortgagee may not, except under an order of the Federal Court or of a court of competent jurisdiction whose rules provide for in rem procedure in respect of vessels, sell the vessel or share without the agreement of every prior mortgagee.

Marginal note:

Mortgage not affected by bankruptcy

70 The mortgage of a vessel or a share in a vessel is not affected by the bankruptcy of the mortgagor after the date of the registration of the mortgage, and the mortgage is to be preferred to any right, claim or interest in the vessel or share of the other creditors of the bankrupt or any trustee or assignee on their behalf.

Marginal note:

Transfer of mortgages

71 (1) A registered mortgage of a vessel or a share in a vessel may be transferred to any person, in which case the instrument affecting the transfer must be filed in the form and manner specified by the Chief Registrar.
Marginal note:
Entry of particulars
(2) The Chief Registrar is to enter the particulars of the transfer in the Register.

Marginal note:

Transmission of interest of mortgagee

72 (1) If the interest of a mortgagee in a vessel or a share in a vessel is transmitted on death or bankruptcy, or by any lawful means other than by a transfer under section 71, the person to whom the interest is transmitted must file with the Chief Registrar the evidence of the transmission that the Chief Registrar specifies.
Marginal note:
Entry of particulars
(2) The Chief Registrar is to enter the particulars of the transmission in the Register.

Transfers of Vessels or Shares in Vessels

Marginal note:

Transfer

73 If the ownership of a Canadian vessel or a share in one changes and the vessel is still required or entitled to be registered under this Part,

(a) the owner must provide the Chief Registrar with the evidence, including declarations, that the Chief Registrar considers necessary to establish that the vessel is required or entitled to be so registered; and
(b) the Chief Registrar must amend the Register and the vessel’s certificate of registry to reflect the change.

Marginal note:

Order for sale on acquisition by an unqualified person

74 If an unqualified person acquires a Canadian vessel, other than a vessel described in paragraph 47(b) (a vessel owned by a foreign corporation), a vessel described in paragraph 47(c) (a vessel subject to a financing agreement) or a vessel described in section 48 (a bare-boat chartered vessel), or a share in one, any interested person may apply to the Federal Court, or any court of competent jurisdiction whose rules provide for in rem procedure in respect of vessels, for an order that the vessel or share, as the case may be, be sold to a qualified person.

Marginal note:

Power of court to prohibit transfer

75 On the application of an interested person, the Federal Court, or any court of competent jurisdiction whose rules provide for in rem procedure in respect of vessels, may make an order prohibiting any dealing with a Canadian vessel or a share in one for a specified period.

Fleets

Marginal note:

Application for fleet

75.01 (1) An applicant may, instead of applying to have vessels individually registered in the small vessel register, apply to register a group of two or more vessels as a fleet in that register.
Marginal note:
Form and manner
(2) The application must be made in the form and manner, include the information and be accompanied by the documents specified by the Chief Registrar.
Marginal note:
Further evidence
(3) In addition to the specified information and documents, the Chief Registrar may require an applicant to provide evidence, including declarations, that the Chief Registrar considers necessary to establish that the group of vessels may be registered as a fleet.


2011, c. 15, s. 42

Marginal note:

Registration — fleet

75.02 (1) The Chief Registrar may register a group of two or more vessels as a fleet if he or she is satisfied that

(a) all of the vessels are owned by the same owner;
(b) each vessel meets the requirements for registration in the small vessel register; and
(c) each vessel meets any other requirement — including with respect to a vessel’s dimensions, usage or propulsion — that the Chief Registrar may establish for the vessels of a fleet.


Marginal note:
Small vessel register
(2) A fleet that is accepted for registration must be registered in the small vessel register.


2011, c. 15, s. 42

Marginal note:

Certificate of registry

75.03 (1) The Chief Registrar must issue a certificate of registry in respect of a fleet that he or she registers, and the certificate is valid for the period that he or she specifies.
Marginal note:
Information
(2) A certificate of registry in respect of a fleet must contain the information specified by the Chief Registrar, including

(a) a description of the fleet;
(b) the fleet’s official number; and
(c) the name and address of the owner and the authorized representative of the fleet.


Marginal note:
Description — number of vessels
(3) In the fleet’s description, the Chief Registrar must specify either the number of vessels that are to be part of the fleet or the minimum and maximum numbers of vessels that can be part of it.
Marginal note:
Official number
(4) The fleet’s official number is also the official number of each vessel of that fleet.
Marginal note:
Authorized representative of fleet
(5) The authorized representative of a fleet is the authorized representative, as determined under section 14, of the vessels of that fleet and must be the same authorized representative for all of the fleet’s vessels.
(6) [Repealed, 2023, c. 26, s. 367]
Marginal note:
Acts or omissions of authorized representative binding
(7) The owner of a fleet is bound by the acts or omissions of the authorized representative of the fleet with respect to all matters assigned by this Act to that representative.


2011, c. 15, s. 42
2023, c. 26, s. 367

Previous Version

Marginal note:

Refusal to issue, renew or amend certificate

75.031 Despite any other provision of this Act, the Chief Registrar may refuse to issue or renew a certificate of registry in respect of a fleet, or to amend one under paragraph 75.14(b), if the applicant for, or holder of, the certificate is in default of payment of a required fee, charge, cost or expense in respect of that fleet or a vessel of that fleet under this Act or the Wrecked, Abandoned or Hazardous Vessels Act.

2023, c. 26, s. 368

Marginal note:

Addition or removal of vessels

75.04 Subject to subsection 75.1(2), an owner of a fleet may, after the fleet is registered, add a vessel to the fleet or remove a vessel from it. However, any vessel that is to be added must

(a) be owned by the same owner as all of the other vessels of the fleet;
(b) satisfy the conditions set out in paragraphs 75.02(1)(b) and (c); and
(c) fit within the description or particulars set out in the fleet’s certificate of registry.


2011, c. 15, s. 42

Marginal note:

Vessels registered

75.05 (1) Subject to subsection (2), a vessel that is or becomes part of a fleet is considered to be registered under this Part and, for greater certainty, is a Canadian vessel.
Marginal note:
No longer registered
(2) Unless it becomes part of another fleet, such a vessel ceases to be registered under this Part if

(a) there is a change in its ownership; or
(b) it is altered to the extent that it no longer fits within the description or particulars set out in the fleet’s certificate of registry.




2011, c. 15, s. 42

Marginal note:

Cancellation of individual registration

75.06 The Chief Registrar may cancel the registration of a Canadian vessel if the vessel becomes part of a fleet.

2011, c. 15, s. 42

Marginal note:

Non-application of provisions

75.07 The following provisions do not apply in respect of a fleet or a vessel of a fleet:

(a) subsections 57(2) and (3);
(b) section 58;
(c) section 60;
(d) section 62;
(e) subsections 63(1) and (2);
(f) section 73.


2011, c. 15, s. 42

Marginal note:

For greater certainty

75.08 (1) For greater certainty, the following provisions apply in respect of a fleet or a vessel of a fleet:

(a) section 56;
(b) subsections 57(1) and (4);
(c) subsections 63(3) and (4).


Marginal note:
Section 59
(2) Section 59 applies in respect of a fleet, except that the reference to “section 58” is to be read as a reference to “section 75.1”.


2011, c. 15, s. 42

Marginal note:

Marking — validity of fleet’s certificate of registry

75.09 (1) A fleet’s certificate of registry is not valid unless each of the fleet’s vessels has been marked in accordance with subsection 57(1).
Marginal note:
Maintenance of markings
(2) The authorized representative of a fleet shall ensure that each of the fleet’s vessels is kept marked.


2011, c. 15, s. 42

Marginal note:

Notification of changes — name and address

75.1 (1) The authorized representative of a fleet shall notify the Chief Registrar within 30 days after there has been a change in the owner’s or authorized representative’s name or address.
Marginal note:
Notification of changes — number of vessels
(2) If the number of vessels in a fleet changes to the extent that the fleet no longer corresponds with its description set out on the certificate of registry, its authorized representative shall, within 30 days after the change in number, notify the Chief Registrar and provide him or her with the relevant information and documents.
Marginal note:
Notification of changes — owner
(3) If for any reason a fleet does not have an authorized representative, its owner shall

(a) notify the Chief Registrar of that fact as soon as possible in the circumstances; and
(b) notify the Chief Registrar within 30 days after any event referred to in subsection (1) or (2) occurs.




2011, c. 15, s. 42

Marginal note:

Suspension and cancellation

75.11 (1) Subject to the regulations, the Chief Registrar may suspend or cancel the registration of a fleet if

(a) any one of the fleet’s vessels is not marked in accordance with subsection 57(1);
(b) the fleet’s certificate of registry has expired;
(c) the fleet does not have an authorized representative; or
(d) section 75.1 has not been complied with.


Marginal note:
Cancellation — fleet
(2) Subject to the regulations, the Chief Registrar must cancel the registration of a fleet if it no longer qualifies for registration under this Part.
Marginal note:
Evidence
(3) The Chief Registrar must cancel the registration of a fleet if a person who acquires the fleet does not, within the prescribed period, provide evidence that satisfies the Chief Registrar that the fleet still qualifies for registration under this Part.


2011, c. 15, s. 42

Marginal note:

Reinstatement

75.12 The Chief Registrar may reinstate the registration of a fleet if, in his or her opinion, the registration of the fleet should not have been canceled.

2011, c. 15, s. 42

Marginal note:

Delivery of certificate

75.13 A person who is in possession of a fleet’s certificate of registry shall deliver it to the person who is entitled to operate the fleet.

2011, c. 15, s. 42

Marginal note:

Change of ownership

75.14 If the ownership of a fleet changes and the fleet still qualifies to be registered under this Part,

(a) the owner must provide the Chief Registrar with the evidence, including declarations, that the Chief Registrar considers necessary to establish that the fleet still qualifies to be so registered; and
(b) the Chief Registrar must amend the Register and the certificate of registry to reflect the change.


2011, c. 15, s. 42

Entries

Marginal note:

Copies of entries

76 A person may examine or obtain copies of any entries in the Register with respect to a vessel or fleet.

2001, c. 26, s. 76
2011, c. 15, s. 42

Previous Version

Regulations

Marginal note:

Regulations

77 The Governor in Council may, on the recommendation of the Minister, make regulations for carrying out the purposes and provisions of this Part, including regulations

(a) respecting the registration of vessels and fleets and the listing and recording of vessels;
(b) respecting the issuance and renewal of certificates of registry;
(c) respecting the suspension and cancellation of the registration of a Canadian vessel or a fleet, and the suspension and cancellation of the listing of a Canadian vessel;
(d) respecting the naming and marking of vessels;
(e) respecting the port of registration;
(f) respecting the form and manner of notifying the Chief Registrar under sections 58 and 75.1;
(g) respecting the evidence that owners of vessels previously registered in a foreign state must provide to prove that the vessels are no longer registered in the foreign state;
(h) respecting the calculation of the tonnage of vessels and the issuance of certificates of tonnage; and
(h.1) respecting the exemption of vessels or classes of vessels from the registration requirement in subsection 46(1);
(h.2) authorizing the Minister to exempt, by order, vessels or classes of vessels from the registration requirement in subsection 46(1) for the period specified in the regulations and on any terms and conditions that he or she considers appropriate, if he or she is of the opinion that the exemption is not likely to adversely affect marine safety, and authorizing the Minister to amend or revoke an exemption;
(h.3) respecting an authorization under paragraph (h.2); and
(i) prescribing anything that may be prescribed under this Part.


2001, c. 26, s. 77
2011, c. 15, s. 43

Previous Version

Offences and Punishment

Marginal note:

Contravention of Act or regulations

78 (1) Every person commits an offence who contravenes

(a) subsection 57(4) (wilfully defacing, altering, concealing or removing markings); or
(b) a provision of the regulations made under paragraph 77(h).


Marginal note:
Punishment
(2) Every person who commits an offence under subsection (1) is liable on summary conviction to a fine of not more than $100,000 or to imprisonment for a term of not more than one year, or to both.

Marginal note:

Contravention of Act or regulations

79 (1) Every person commits an offence who contravenes

(a) subsection 46(2) (register vessel);
(b) an order made under subsection 52(4) (renaming of vessel);
(c) subsection 57(1) (mark vessel);
(d) subsection 57(3) (maintenance of markings);
(e) subsection 58(1) (notify of changes — authorized representative);
(f) subsection 58(2) (notify of alteration — authorized representative);
(g) subsection 58(3) (notify if no authorized representative — owner);
(h) subsection 58(4) (notify of completion of construction);
(i) subsection 63(1) (operation of vessel without a certificate on board);
(j) subsection 63(2) (deliver certificate to person entitled to operate vessel);
(k) subsection 63(3) (deliver certificate to Chief Registrar);
(l) subsection 64(2) (fly Canadian flag);
(l.1) subsection 75.09(2) (maintenance of markings);
(l.2) subsection 75.1(1) (notification of changes — name and address);
(l.3) subsection 75.1(2) (notification of changes — number of vessels);
(l.4) subsection 75.1(3) (notification of changes — owner);
(l.5) section 75.13 (delivery of certificate); or
(m) a provision of the regulations made under any of paragraphs 77(a) to (g).


Marginal note:
Punishment
(2) Every person who commits an offence under subsection (1) is liable on summary conviction to a fine of not more than $25,000.
Marginal note:
Continuing offence
(3) If an offence under paragraph (1)(a) or (c) is committed or continued on more than one day, the person who committed it is liable to be convicted for a separate offence for each day on which it is committed or continued.


2001, c. 26, s. 79
2011, c. 15, s. 44
2023, c. 26, s. 369

 

The authorized representative has the overall responsibility for safety of the vessel. Even though not always on board, the authorized representative must ensure that the vessel’s machinery and equipment meet the requirements of the Act and Regulations.The authorized representative is also responsible for notifying Vessel Registration should any changes be made to the vessel, including alterations, changes in address or removal from service, as per section 58 of the Canada Shipping Act, 2001.

Government boat registration is a legal requirement for certain types of boats in Canada. This is done for many reasons, not the least of which is for safety, to provide an easier way to identify and track the boat, all while staying in compliance with regulations. 

Here at the National Vessel Registry Center Corp., we make registration of a government boat easy for provincial and federal government entities only. 
How Do I Apply for a Government Boat Registration in Canada?
To apply for a government boat registration in Canada, follow these steps:

Gather the required documents.
Visit the National Vessel Registry Center Corp. website.
Fill out the online application form with accurate details about the boat, including its name, dimensions, and intended use.
Upload the necessary supporting documents.
Submit the application and pay the required fees.
Once processed, Transport Canada will issue a certificate of registry, which serves as official proof of registration.

What Information is Required for Boat Registration?
The information required for boat registration includes the boat’s name, port of registry, dimensions, tonnage, propulsion type, and construction details. Additionally, the owner’s name, address, and proof of ownership, such as a bill of sale or builder’s certificate, must be provided. 

On the form, we’ve marked exactly what you do and don’t have to fill out. It’s one more way we can save you time. 
What’s the Easiest Way to Register a Government Boat?
The easiest way to register a government boat is by using the National Vessel Registry Center Corp. online portal. The platform guides users through each step of the registration process, ensuring that all required information and documents are submitted correctly. 

By providing a streamlined and user-friendly interface, the National Vessel Registry Center Corp. eliminates the need for complicated paperwork and reduces the likelihood of errors or delays. Additionally, the platform offers customer support to assist with any questions or concerns during the registration process.
How Long is a Government Boat’s Registration Valid For?
A government boat’s registration is typically valid for a period of five years. It is important to keep track of the expiration date and renew the registration before it lapses to avoid penalties or restrictions on the boat’s use. The National Vessel Registry Center Corp. makes it easy for boat owners to stay on top of renewal deadlines.
Can I Renew the Registration of a Government Boat?
Yes, the registration of a government boat can be renewed. The renewal process involves submitting a renewal application through the National Vessel Registry Center Corp. and paying the applicable fees. 

It is recommended to renew the registration well in advance of the expiration date to avoid any lapses in documentation. The platform simplifies the renewal process by providing easy access to the necessary forms and instructions.
Is Registering a Government Boat the Same as Getting a Pleasure Craft Licence for It?
No, registering a government boat is not the same as obtaining a pleasure craft licence. Registration is a federal requirement for certain types of boats, including government-owned boats, and provides proof of ownership and nationality. 

A pleasure craft licence, on the other hand, is typically required for smaller, non-commercial boats and is issued by the Canadian Coast Guard. 

Licensing does not provide proof of ownership and is generally used for identification purposes. Government boats are exempt from pleasure craft licencing requirements and must be registered instead.
What is a Pleasure Craft Licence Exactly?
A pleasure craft licence is a document issued by the Canadian Coast Guard for small, non-commercial boats used primarily for recreational purposes. It serves as an identification number for the boat and must be displayed on the boat’s exterior.

 A pleasure craft licence is not proof of ownership and does not provide the same legal protections as boat registration. It is required for all pleasure craft equipped with a motor of 10 horsepower or more, unless the boat is already registered.
How Do I Choose a Port of Registry for a Registered Government Boat?
The port of registry is the official home port of the boat and is included in the registration documents. When choosing a port of registry for a government boat, consider factors such as the boat’s primary operating location and the preferences of the owning agency. The port of registry does not need to be the physical location of the boat but should reflect its connection to Canada. 

The National Vessel Registry Center Corp. provides guidance on selecting an appropriate port of registry and ensures that the chosen port is included in the registration application.

Interested boat owners can use this link to change their boat name and Port of Registry. 
How Can the National Vessel Registry Center Corp. Help With Registering a Government Boat?
The National Vessel Registry Center Corp. simplifies the process of registering a government boat by providing a centralized platform for submitting applications and tracking their status. 

The platform offers step-by-step guidance, ensuring that all required information and documents are submitted correctly. Additionally, the National Vessel Registry Center Corp. provides customer support to assist with any questions or concerns during the registration process. 

By streamlining the process and reducing the likelihood of errors or delays, the platform makes it easier for government agencies to comply with Transport Canada regulations.
What Happens if I Don’t Register My Government Boat?
Failing to register a government boat that requires registration can result in fines, penalties, or restrictions on the boat’s use. Unregistered boats may also face challenges in proving ownership or obtaining insurance. Additionally, unregistered government boats may not be recognized under Canadian maritime law, which could limit their ability to operate in certain jurisdictions or travel internationally. Registering the boat ensures compliance with federal regulations and provides legal protections for the owning agency.
Can I Register a Used Boat?
Yes, used boats can be registered in Canada. The process is similar to registering a new boat, but additional documentation, such as a bill of sale from the previous owner, may be required to prove ownership.
What Happens if I Don’t Register My Boat?
Failing to register a boat that requires registration can result in fines, penalties, or restrictions on the boat’s use. Unregistered boats may also face challenges in proving ownership or obtaining insurance.
Can I Change the Details on My Boat Registration?
Yes, changes to boat registration details, such as ownership, boat name, or port of registry, can be made by submitting an amendment application through the National Vessel Registry Center Corp. 

Many of the changes you may wish to make can be done through the “Alterations” form. Supporting documents may be required depending on the nature of the change.
How Do I Renew My Boat Registration?
Boat registrations in Canada are valid for a specific period and must be renewed before expiration. The renewal process involves submitting a renewal application through the National Vessel Registry Center Corp. and paying the applicable fees. It is recommended to renew the registration well in advance to avoid lapses.
What is the Difference Between Boat Registration and Licensing?
Boat registration is a federal requirement for certain types of boats and provides proof of ownership and nationality. Licensing, on the other hand, is typically required for non-commercial boats. Licensing does not provide proof of ownership.
Where Can I Get Help with My Boat Registration?
For assistance with boat registration, visit the National Vessel Registry Center Corp. website. Our platform offers guidance, forms, and support to help boat owners navigate the registration process efficiently. 
What is the National Vessel Registry Center Corp.?
The National Vessel Registry Center Corp. is an online platform designed to simplify the process of registering and managing boat documentation in Canada. It provides a user-friendly interface for boat owners to complete government-required paperwork, including boat registration, transfers, and renewals. 

The service ensures compliance with Transport Canada regulations while saving time and effort for boat owners. By offering step-by-step guidance and support, the platform helps streamline the process of registering government boats and other boats.
Where Can I Get Help with My Government Boat Registration?
For assistance with government boat registration, visit the National Vessel Registry Center Corp. website. The platform offers guidance, forms, and support to help boat owners navigate the registration process efficiently. If further assistance is needed, customer support is available to address specific questions or concerns. 

The National Vessel Registry Center Corp. is committed to making the registration process as smooth and straightforward as possible for government agencies and other boat owners.
How Do I Transfer Ownership of a Registered Government Boat?
Transferring ownership of a registered government boat involves submitting a transfer application through the National Vessel Registry Center Corp. The application must include details about the new owner, as well as proof of the transfer, such as a bill of sale. 

The platform simplifies the transfer process by providing easy access to the necessary forms and instructions. Once the transfer is processed, Transport Canada will issue a new certificate of registry reflecting the updated ownership information.
Can I Register a Government Boat Online?
Yes, government boats can be registered online through the National Vessel Registry Center Corp. The platform provides a user-friendly interface for submitting applications, uploading documents, and paying fees. Online registration simplifies the process and reduces the likelihood of errors or delays. The platform also allows users to track the status of their application and receive notifications once the registration is complete.
What Are the Benefits of Registering a Government Boat?
Registering a government boat provides several benefits, including proof of ownership, legal recognition under Canadian maritime law, and the ability to travel internationally under the Canadian flag. Registration also ensures compliance with federal regulations and provides legal protections for the owning agency. Additionally, registered boats may have an easier time obtaining insurance and financing.
What Should I Do if I Lose My Government Boat’s Certificate of Registry?
If a government boat’s certificate of registry is lost, stolen, or damaged, a replacement can be requested through the National Vessel Registry Center Corp. The platform provides easy access to the necessary forms and instructions for requesting a replacement. Once the request is processed, Transport Canada will issue a boat registration replacement. 
Can I Register a Government Boat That Was Previously Registered in Another Country?
Yes, a government boat that was previously registered in another country can be registered in Canada. The process involves submitting an application through the National Vessel Registry Center Corp. and providing proof of ownership, as well as documentation from the previous registry indicating that the boat’s registration has been closed. The platform provides guidance on the specific requirements for registering a foreign-built or previously registered boat.
Can I Register a Government Boat That Is Under Construction?
Yes, a government boat that is under construction can be registered in Canada. The process involves submitting an application through the National Vessel Registry Center Corp. and providing documentation from the builder, such as a builder’s certificate. 

Once the boat is completed, the registration can be finalized, and a certificate of registry will be issued.
What Are the Requirements for Naming a Government Boat?
The name of a government boat must be unique and not already in use by another registered boat. It must also comply with Transport Canada’s naming guidelines, which prohibit the use of offensive or misleading names. 

The National Vessel Registry Center Corp. provides guidance on selecting an appropriate name and ensures that the chosen name is included in the registration application.
How Do I Deregister a Government Boat?
Deregistering a government boat involves submitting a deregistration application through the National Vessel Registry Center Corp. The application must include details about the boat and the reason for deregistration. Once processed, Transport Canada will issue a confirmation of deregistration, and the boat will no longer be recognized under Canadian maritime law. Use this link for the deletion of a certificate. 
What Are the Benefits of Using the National Vessel Registry Center Corp.?
The National Vessel Registry Center Corp. offers several benefits, including a streamlined registration process, step-by-step guidance, and customer support. The platform simplifies the process of registering, renewing, and managing government boat documentation, ensuring compliance with Transport Canada regulations. 

By providing a centralized platform for submitting applications and tracking their status, the National Vessel Registry Center Corp. saves time and effort for boat owners.

As a Canadian ship owner, you may wonder how to register a boat in Canada, especially considering this task can be quite costly. However, the costs of registering a vessel in Canada are lower than many believe, and it can be done for a very reasonable fee. To write a ship in Canada, you must complete a boat registration application and provide proof of Canadian citizenship.

You will also need to choose a Ship Identification Number (SIN) for your boat. You should submit all of your information online to speed up receiving your SIN. Following these simple steps can save you hundreds or even thousands of dollars when registering your boat with the National Vessel Registry Center or Transport Canada.
Get All Your Paperwork in Order
At first, the official paperwork may seem intimidating; however, if you have everything prepared to go before you register for the course, the process will be considerably simpler for you. To begin, you must prove that a Canadian company owns and manages the vessel. This may contain copies of the bill of sale, the purchase agreement, and, if appropriate, the original certificate of Registry (encumbrance).

To prove that your company is owned and registered in Canada, you must provide corporate documents such as a copy of the company's Certificate of Incorporation and a list of shareholders. You will also need to have a copy of the ship's design drawings and an inventory list detailing the ship's construction material, fuel type, propulsion, engine power, and engine hours.
Choose the Right Type of Registration (International or Domestic)
When determining whether to register a Canadian ship for domestic or foreign usage, you must consider how often you want to use the boat and the kind of access you would like to have to the vessel.

If your boat is used only in Canada and will be parked here most of the time, then registering it as a domestic vessel may be the most appropriate course of action in certain circumstances. However, if you want to transport it beyond international boundaries or if you want to make sure that someone else is using the boat, they are accountable for the payments. International registration may be the preferable choice for you.
Decide What Option You Want
The procedure is comparable to registering a ship with the nation of ownership, albeit it may be cumbersome depending on the jurisdiction. Canada's registration fees are relatively cheap, and they're far fairer than in some other nations. It would help if you decided whether to utilize the frigate.

If your Canadian ship is too small to utilize a frigate, your only other option is to resort to this strategy. A vessel with a gross tonnage of less than 500 may register as an uninspected passenger vessel in Canada if it chooses the frigate option. A frigate must be either less than 150 meters in length or have a GRT (gross register tonnage) of less than 500 to be classified as such. Your ship's logbook will include your vessel's keel length and overall length.
Be Aware Of the Renewal Fees (Or Lack Thereof)
Another important fact to remember is that if you register your vessel in the province of British Columbia, you will not be required to pay any yearly renewal costs. If you have a registration due in January and are seeking to save some money, this indicates that it is not completely out of the question for you to let yourself lapse for another year.

It's also important to keep in mind that if you do this, your insurance will also have to be canceled. Not only does this run the risk of violating the terms of your insurance policy, but it also puts you at risk of facing legal repercussions if something goes wrong with your ship when it isn't covered by insurance.


Register Your Canadian Ship Online At the National Vessel Registry
When registering a ship, the fees can be pretty high—and they're only made more heightened by the variety of methods available to register. But, if you're registered in Canada, there's a pretty simple way to cut your costs by more than half. The National Vessel Registry (NVR) is a free service that allows Canadians to register their ships at the lowest fees possible.

The NVR is a great option for anyone who wants to register their boat with the Canadian government and avoid paying thousands of dollars in registration fees for their ship.

We're here to help you register your Canadian ship at the cheapest fees ever. Whether you're looking to register your vessel in Vancouver, Toronto, or anywhere else across Canada, we'd be happy to answer any questions and provide our services for you. 

You Can Renew It 45 Days in Advance

That’s when Transport Canada will let you know that your documentation is set to expire. Canadian vessel documentation is valid for five years. You can renew your documentation through our site.

Yes. People Pay to Take Trips on Water Ferries
A passenger vessel is defined as any vessel carrying at least one paying individual. Passengers typically include those who pay for services. 

So, that includes ferry rides, yes, but it also includes sightseeing trips, harbor cruises, or water taxi transport, and so forth. This classification extends to all vessels accepting payment from passengers.

Your Certificate of Registry is valid for five years. That’s true whether you’re on the Small Vessel Registry or the Large Vessel Registry. 

Transport Canada will send a written notification to the vessel owner as a reminder of its impending expiry, 45 days prior to the expiration date. The onus rests on the owner to ensure timely renewal of the certificate prior to its expiration.
Vessel Documentation Renewal Forms and More 
Use this form to renew your Certificate of Registry for the Large Register. 

Boating can give you an unmatched sense of freedom. Ontario, which is home to hundreds of thousands of lakes and waterways, is in many ways a boater’s paradise, and an ideal setting for you to explore and fish. Before you load up your vessel, however, you will want to make sure that you have secured a pleasure craft license.

With a proper license, you will have demonstrative proof of the competency needed to safely operate a boat in Canada. Read on to learn more about how you can get your license and get out on the water.

Do you have a recreational vessel and are thinking of maybe selling it? Are you officially adding someone as an owner of your boat? Well, either way, you might need to go through the process for a transfer of pleasure craft licence.

 
Transfer of Pleasure Craft Licence
If you are carrying out this process, it is because you are looking to transfer the registration, ownership, and property of the pleasure craft in question to another person, company, or entity, whether that means a full or partial claim. Since this form is indeed designed with a few different processes in mind, it can be somewhat confusing or intimidating at first. The good thing is that our team is always here to help you tackle any of the situations in which you need a pleasure craft transfer of ownership, but here’s a brief guide on what the form itself will be useful for.

 
Selling Your Vessel
Very often, the reason people are making use of the transfer form is that they are selling their pleasure craft. Part of the process of selling your vessel will involve going through the transfer of ownership itself. This will make the process official in that, in the eyes of the national vessel registry, the vessel in question will no longer be yours and is being passed along to a new owner. While many people think that the sale alone is enough to make the new ownership official, in reality, there has to be an administrative process that reflects the change of ownership in Transport Canada’s registry. This process needs to be carried out by the seller in order to properly transfer the licence to the new buyer. 

 
Altering Shared Ownership
Now, there are going to be other situations in which the form for a transfer of licence will be necessary. There are cases in which a pleasure craft vessel is owned by more than one person, such as in cases of married couples, business partners, and family purchases. In these cases, more than one owner is on the licence, and a transfer form will be necessary in order to make changes to these arrangements. Part of divorce arrangements, for example, will include determining who will get ownership of a vessel they both own, of course. However, this sort of pleasure craft transfer of ownership can also apply to business partnerships, as well as other instances of shared assets. The transfer form will be necessary in all these cases as well.


Submitting Forms to Transport Canada
The thought of having to submit forms to a government agency might sound pretty tedious, but we at the National Vessel Registry Center Corp. make everything a lot easier for you. Not only will you find all relevant forms here, including those needed to transfer your pleasure craft licence, but you will also be able to submit them to Transport Canada through our platform. If you have any questions about the process, don’t hesitate to reach out to us.

If you have been thinking about buying a boat, the summer months have probably had something to do with it. After all, we slog through the rough, long Canadian winters in order to make the most of the summertime. It is during these warmer months that you truly see the beauty in Canada’s natural offerings. If you are looking for ways to better enjoy the great outdoors, owning your own boat is a surefire way to do so. Of course, deciding to purchase a boat is not always an easy choice. You may first need to complete some paperwork, though, and this commonly takes the form of a Canada pleasure craft licence (PCL).
Pleasure Craft Licence Solutions
Boats can be pretty expensive, so a vessel can be an investment that requires a lot of thought and research. There are also a wide variety of types of boats on the open market, so you will want to carefully consider the vessel that is best suited to your needs. Once you are home on the boat of your dreams and you make the seller an offer, you are nearly ready to get in the water and make waves. 

Owning a boat can be a great hobby, offering you an easy way to relax on weekend afternoons. Boats can also come with quite a bit of responsibility, however, and motorized boats in particular call for a certain degree of safety in their operation. If you are thinking about purchasing a motorized vessel, it is in your best interest to obtain a boating license, which is officially dubbed a pleasure craft operator card (PCOC). You can think of this as a sort of driver’s license for a boat. To get a PCOC, you can take a short educational course and then complete Transport Canada’s requisite exam. Your boat may also require some documentation of its own in the form of a PCL or vessel registration. Read on to learn more.
What is a Canada Pleasure Craft Licence?
The type of documentation that your boat will require largely depends on what it is used for. If your boat is purely for recreation and it has an engine of 10 horsepower (7.5 kW) or more, it will need a PCL. Any boat can get a PCL, though, and it is generally smart to get your vessel documented with Transport Canada. When you are issued a PCL, you will receive a registration number, which should be displayed on both sides of your boat’s bow in characters of at least three inches in height. Your registration number should also clearly contrast with the color of your boat’s exterior. 

Getting a Canada Pleasure Craft Licence Online
You can use our web forms to apply for your PCL online. Simply complete the easy-to-follow prompts on our fillable form and upload a photograph of your vessel along with proof of ownership. To learn more about some of our additional services, take a minute to browse our Frequently Asked Questions page.

A Vessel With a Gross Tonnage of 15 Or Less
A small commercial vessel is defined as any commercial vessel with a gross tonnage of up to 15, operating with a passenger capacity of no more than 100 unberthed passengers or 25 berthed passengers.

After months of research, comparison shopping, and more, you are ready to take the plunge. You did your due diligence and found a vessel that is the perfect size and has all you want. Importantly, the boat is right in the price range of what you can afford. Closing the deal can be one of the most exciting moments you may have experienced, and you look forward to taking out your boat for that first trip on the water. Before you get too far ahead of yourself, you want to be sure that you have taken care of all the necessary paperwork so that you can legally sail your vessel. Knowing how to register a boat in BC and other Canadian provinces will help you make sure you have all you need for your sailing pleasure.








The First Steps to Register




The first step for you to take with registration is to get all your necessary paperwork in order. You will need to provide documentation to Transport Canada, the government agency responsible for vessel registration. You must have proof that you are a Canadian resident, and you also must show that you are the rightful owner or one of the owners of the boat. Providing a copy of the bill of sale for your boat is going to be what you will do as part of your submission of the registration documents. You also need to fill out the appropriate application, so finding the paperwork you need matters as well. There will also be a registration fee that you must pay.




Where to Start to Register




Learning how to register a boat in BC or elsewhere in Canada means finding the paperwork and filling it out. If you have never done this before, it can be confusing at first as you try to figure out what forms you need, what documentation to provide, and how to answer the questions on the form. You will also find that you will need to mail the form, along with your payment information, to Transport Canada. You may be wary of providing information this way since it may not be the most secure method for your personal information.  Luckily, there is a better solution for you.




We Can Help You Register




Here at the National Vessel Registry Center Corp., we can provide you with the help you need so you can learn the best way how to register a boat in BC. We are an outside company that helps facilitate documentation transactions with Transport Canada. We have all the forms you need to help you register, and we provide clear links on every page of our website, so you have no trouble finding the forms you need. You can perform the task electronically with us, and our site is encrypted, so you know your personal and payment information is always safe. Come to our website today to begin the registration process.

No, You Can Keep Your Pleasure Craft Licence 
A pleasure craft is one that is used for recreation, just for fun. You aren’t using it in a commercial capacity, this was simply someone helping. 

That said, if your vessel meets the standards (15 gross tonnes or more and an engine larger than 7.5 kW) you could choose to register your vessel. You could also do so should you decide to use your vessel in a commercial capacity. 

Additionally, you could register your vessel if you plan to take it outside of Canada, want a reserved name, or wish to apply for a mortgage. 

Use this link to apply for a pleasure craft licence. 

Use this one to register a boat in Canada. 
Laws Regarding a Pleasure Craft Licence and More in Canada 
Here at the National Vessel Registry Center Corp., we have helped vessel owners from all walks of life to both register vessels as well as to acquire pleasure craft licencing. Beyond that, we have the documentation for when you wish to sell a licenced or registered vessel, wish to know more about a vessel, and other forms. 

The following laws may pertain to your situation. 

Optional registration

47 Unless they are registered, listed or otherwise recorded in a foreign state, the following vessels may be registered under this Part:

(a) a pleasure craft that is wholly owned by qualified persons;
(a.1) a vessel that is exempted under the regulations from the registration requirement in subsection 46(1) and that is wholly owned by qualified persons;
(b) a vessel that is owned by a corporation incorporated under the laws of a foreign state if one of the following is acting with respect to all matters relating to the vessel, namely,

(i) a subsidiary of the corporation incorporated under the laws of Canada or a province,
(ii) an employee or a director in Canada of a branch office of the corporation that is carrying on business in Canada, or
(iii) a ship management company incorporated under the laws of Canada or a province; and


(c) a vessel that is in the exclusive possession of a qualified person under a financing agreement under which the person will acquire ownership on completion of the agreement.


2001, c. 26, s. 47
2011, c. 15, s. 40

 Marginal note:

Bare-boat chartered vessels

48 A vessel that is registered in a foreign state and that is bare-boat chartered exclusively to a qualified person may be listed under this Part as a bare-boat chartered vessel for the duration of the charter if, for the duration of the charter, the registration is suspended in respect of the right to fly the flag of that state.

Marginal note:

Vessels under construction

49 A vessel that is about to be built or that is under construction in Canada may be temporarily recorded in the Register as a vessel being built in Canada.

Marginal note:

Vessels built outside Canada

50 Notwithstanding sections 46 to 48, the Minister may direct the Chief Registrar to refuse to register or list a vessel built outside Canada.

Application

Marginal note:

Application

51 (1) An application for the registration, listing or recording of a vessel must be made in the form and manner, include the information and be accompanied by the documents specified by the Chief Registrar.
Marginal note:
Further evidence
(2) In addition to the specified information and documents, the Chief Registrar may require an applicant to provide evidence, including declarations, that the Chief Registrar considers necessary to establish that a vessel is required or entitled to be registered or is entitled to be listed or recorded.

Names of Vessels

Marginal note:

Before registration or listing

52 (1) Every vessel, other than one to be registered in the small vessel register, must be named in the form and manner specified by the Chief Registrar before it is registered or listed.
Marginal note:
Approval of names
(2) The Chief Registrar may, on application, approve the name of a vessel before it is registered or listed and approve a change in the name of a Canadian vessel.
Marginal note:
Disallowance of names
(3) The Chief Registrar must disallow a name if

(a) it is the same as the name of a Canadian vessel;
(b) it is likely, in the opinion of the Chief Registrar, to be confused with the name of a Canadian vessel or with a distress signal;
(c) it is likely, in the opinion of the Chief Registrar, to be offensive to members of the public; or
(d) its use is prohibited under an Act of Parliament.


Marginal note:
Requiring renaming
(4) The Minister may order that a Canadian vessel be renamed if the Minister considers that its name would prejudice the international reputation of Canada.

Ownership of Vessels

Marginal note:

Shares

53 (1) For the purposes of registration, the property in a vessel is divided into 64 shares.
Marginal note:
Registered owners
(2) Subject to subsections (3) and (4), only owners or joint owners of a vessel or of one or more shares in a vessel may be registered in the Register as owners of the vessel or shares, as the case may be.
Marginal note:
Registered owners — financing agreements
(3) In the case of a vessel described in paragraph 47(c) (a vessel subject to a financing agreement), the persons referred to in that paragraph are to be registered in the Register as the owners of the vessel.
Marginal note:
Bare-boat charterers
(4) In the case of a vessel described in section 48 (a bare-boat chartered vessel), no person may be registered in the Register as an owner of the vessel.
Marginal note:
Registration of joint owners
(5) No more than five persons may be registered in the Register as joint owners of a vessel or a share in a vessel.
Marginal note:
Disposition of registered joint interests
(6) A registered jointly owned interest in a vessel or a share in a vessel may be disposed of only by the joint owners acting together.
Marginal note:
Registration of fractions prohibited
(7) No person may be registered as the owner of a fractional part of a share in a vessel.
Marginal note:
No effect on beneficial owners
(8) This section does not affect the beneficial interests of a person represented by or claiming through an owner of a vessel or a share in a vessel.
Marginal note:
Trusts not recognized
(9) No notice of a trust may be entered in the Register.

Certificates

Marginal note:

Certificates of registry

54 (1) If the Chief Registrar is satisfied that all of the requirements of registration or listing have been met with respect to a vessel, the Chief Registrar must register or list the vessel, as the case may be, in the Register and issue a certificate of registry.
Marginal note:
Information
(2) Every certificate of registry in respect of a vessel must contain the information specified by the Chief Registrar, including

(a) its description;
(b) its official number; and
(c) the name and address of

(i) in the case of a vessel described in paragraph 47(b) (a vessel owned by a foreign corporation), the authorized representative,
(ii) in the case of a vessel described in section 48 (a bare-boat chartered vessel), the bare-boat charterer, and
(iii) in any other case, its owner and the authorized representative.




Marginal note:
Period of validity
(3) Every certificate of registry is valid for the period specified by the Chief Registrar.

Marginal note:

Provisional certificates

55 (1) The Chief Registrar may, on application, issue a provisional certificate in respect of a vessel that is required or entitled to be registered under this Part if

(a) the vessel is in a foreign port and a person intends to register it under this Part; or
(b) the vessel is in a port in Canada and the Chief Registrar is satisfied that permission to operate the vessel should be granted before a certificate of registry can be issued.


Marginal note:
Issuance
(2) The Chief Registrar may, on application, issue a provisional certificate in respect of a vessel that is not required or entitled to be registered under this Part if the Chief Registrar is satisfied that the vessel needs to undergo sea trials.
Marginal note:
Validity
(3) A provisional certificate is valid for the purpose and the period specified by the Chief Registrar.
Marginal note:
Application
(4) An application for a provisional certificate must be made in the form and manner, include the information and be accompanied by the documents specified by the Chief Registrar.

Marginal note:

Lost certificates

56 If a certificate of registry or provisional certificate is mislaid, lost or destroyed, the Chief Registrar must issue a replacement certificate of registry or provisional certificate, as the case may be, on application made by the authorized representative or owner in the form and manner and including the information and accompanied by the documents specified by the Chief Registrar.

2001, c. 26, s. 56
2023, c. 26, s. 366

 

Marginal note:

Refusal to issue, renew or amend certificate

56.1 Despite any other provision of this Act, the Chief Registrar may refuse to issue, in respect of a vessel, a certificate of registry, a provisional certificate or a replacement certificate of registry or provisional certificate, or to renew a certificate of registry or to amend one under paragraph 73(b), if the applicant for, or holder of, the certificate is in default of payment of a required fee, charge, cost or expense under this Act or the Wrecked, Abandoned or Hazardous Vessels Act in respect of that vessel.

2023, c. 26, s. 366

Marking

Marginal note:

Marking

57 (1) The authorized representative of a Canadian vessel shall, in the form and manner specified by the Chief Registrar, mark the vessel with its official number and any other information that the Chief Registrar specifies.
Marginal note:
Validity of certificate of registry
(2) A vessel’s certificate of registry is not valid until the vessel has been marked in accordance with subsection (1).
Marginal note:
Maintenance of markings
(3) The authorized representative shall ensure that the vessel is kept marked.
Marginal note:
Defacing, etc., markings
(4) No person shall wilfully deface, alter, conceal or remove the markings of a Canadian vessel.

Notifying Chief Registrar

Marginal note:

Notification of changes

58 (1) The authorized representative of a Canadian vessel shall notify the Chief Registrar within 30 days after any of the following occurs:

(a) the vessel is lost, wrecked or removed from service;
(b) there has been a change in the owner’s, the authorized representative’s or a registered mortgagee’s name or address;
(c) the information provided with the application under section 51 has changed; or
(d) in the case of a vessel described in section 48 (a bare-boat chartered vessel),

(i) the right to fly the flag of the foreign state is reinstated, or
(ii) the charterer ceases to have complete control and possession of the vessel.




Marginal note:
Notification of alterations
(2) If a Canadian vessel is altered to the extent that it no longer corresponds with its description or particulars set out on the certificate of registry, the authorized representative shall, within 30 days after the alteration, notify the Chief Registrar and provide the Chief Registrar with the relevant information and documents.
Marginal note:
Notification of changes
(3) If for any reason a Canadian vessel does not have an authorized representative, its owner shall

(a) notify the Chief Registrar of that fact as soon as possible in the circumstances; and
(b) notify the Chief Registrar within 30 days after any event referred to in subsection (1) or (2) occurs.


Marginal note:
Notification of completion of construction
(4) Within 30 days after completion of the construction of a vessel that is recorded as being built in Canada, the person in whose name the vessel is recorded shall notify the Chief Registrar of that fact and of the name and address of its owner.


2001, c. 26, s. 58
2011, c. 15, s. 41(F)

 

Maintenance of Register

Marginal note:

Amendments

59 The Chief Registrar may amend the Register or a certificate of registry to give effect to changes of which the Chief Registrar has been notified under section 58 or to correct any clerical errors or obvious mistakes.

Suspension, Cancellation and Reinstatement of Registration

Marginal note:

Suspension and cancellation

60 (1) Subject to the regulations, the Chief Registrar may suspend or cancel the registration or listing of a Canadian vessel if

(a) it is not marked in accordance with subsection 57(1);
(b) its certificate of registry has expired;
(c) it does not have an authorized representative; or
(d) section 58 has not been complied with.


Marginal note:
Cancellation
(2) Subject to the regulations, the Chief Registrar must cancel the registration or listing of a Canadian vessel if

(a) it has been lost, wrecked or removed from service;
(b) it is no longer required or entitled to be registered or entitled to be listed under this Part; or
(c) in the case of a registered vessel, a tonnage certificate provided by a tonnage measurer indicates that the vessel should be re-registered.


Marginal note:
Notice before cancellation
(3) If a Canadian vessel is not required or entitled to be registered under this Part after its ownership changes, the Chief Registrar must, before canceling its registration under paragraph (2)(b), give the owners and registered mortgagees

(a) notice of the change in ownership; and
(b) an opportunity that, in the opinion of the Chief Registrar, is sufficient to transfer the vessel or shares in the vessel to a qualified person or to make an application under section 74.


Marginal note:
Cancellation of registration
(4) Except in the case of a vessel described in paragraph 47(c) (a vessel subject to a financing agreement), the Chief Registrar must cancel the registration of a vessel if a person who acquires the vessel or a share in it does not, within the prescribed period, provide evidence that satisfies the Chief Registrar that the vessel is required or entitled to be registered under this Part.

The whole point of registering your vessels with Transport Canada is to get the corresponding documentation in order in accordance with the Canada Shipping Act. This will grant you your claim over your vessel without issue going forward just as long, of course, as you keep a physical copy on you. This is why a replacement certificate will come in handy.
Your Registration Certificate
Why do you register your commercial vessel with Transport Canada? Well, in part, you do this to comply with the national guidelines for vessels, of course, but this also helps you establish ownership over the vessel itself going forward. Now, because of this, it’s very important to have your certificate at hand while operating your vessel, for it represents the good standing of your vessel with the government and displays the authorization to operate. An official physical certificate will be mandatory, meaning that you need to keep such a copy on board whenever you’re operating. Because of this, it’s important to make sure such a copy is never missing from your vessel and protect it going forward.
Did Something Happen to Your Certificate?
So, if having your official copy of the certificate around is so imperative, what if something happens to it? Maybe it got wet and damaged or it went missing. In cases such as these, you are going to have to go through a particular process in order to make sure you are able to continue operating without a problem. No, a photocopy or a digital version of the certificate won’t be valid forms of documentation. If you’re stopped by the corresponding authorities and you don’t have an official copy of your certificate, you might end up having trouble. Hence, you have to request a replacement certificate from Transport Canada so that you’re able to receive another official certificate. 
Getting a Replacement Certificate
So, how do you take care of such a request? What do you have to do in order to receive a replacement certificate? It’s not as simple as re-downloading the certificate and printing it, but don’t worry, this isn’t that complicated. All you need to do is submit the form for a replacement request, which you will find here on our website. Your registration is still in order, after all, so there’s no need for you to go through the overall application process again. It won’t take long for you to receive the new certificate for you to keep aboard at all times and avoid potential problems.
Apply For a Replacement
Once you know what you need to do, it will be time to actually submit your replacement certificate request. You can do so directly and risk delays, or you can submit everything through our platform here at the National Vessel Registry Center Corp. We are always making sure that people have easier access to Transport Canada registration forms and applications, as well as the right venue through which to submit them. You’ll be able to find everything you need here on our website. If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to reach out to us by calling +1 (800) 419-9569 or emailing us at info@canadianvesselregistry.ca.

Through Library and Archives Canada’s Ship Registration Index Database 
This free database includes information about vessels that were registered between the years of 1787 and 1966. 

At our site, you can apply for historical research about a vessel. This can include information about any vessel from the years of 1904 to the modern day. 

The search through our site can include more information about vessels from the years of 1904 and 1966 than that free search can contain. 

Use this link to apply for transcripts and historical research. 

Use this link for the Library and Archives Canada’s Ship Registration Index Database. 
Boat Registration Laws in Canada and More 
At the National Vessel Registry Center Corp., we support vessel owners from all walks of life in obtaining vessel registration and pleasure craft licensing. We also offer the necessary documentation for selling licensed or registered vessels, learning more about vessel information, and a range of other forms.

The laws listed below may be applicable to you:

Vessel Registration and Tonnage Regulations

P.C. 2007-924 2007-06-07

Her Excellency the Governor General in Council, on the recommendation of the Minister of Transport, Infrastructure and Communities, pursuant to paragraphs 35(1)(d) and (f)

Footnote

a and section 77 of the Canada Shipping Act, 2001

Footnote

b, hereby makes the annexed Vessel Registration and Tonnage Regulations.

Return to footnote

Interpretation

1 The following definitions apply in these Regulations.

1969 Convention means the International Convention on Tonnage Measurement of Ships, 1969, as amended from time to time. (Convention de 1969)

Act means the Canada Shipping Act, 2001. (Loi)

International Tonnage Certificate (1969) means

(a) for a Canadian vessel, a certificate issued under subsection 8(5) or section 12 or 13; and
(b) for a foreign vessel, a certificate issued under Article 7 or 8 of the 1969 Convention or paragraph 15(2)(b). (certificat international de jaugeage (1969))

length

(a) in respect of a vessel referred to in Part 1, means the distance measured parallel to the waterline from the forward end of the foremost outside surface of the hull shell to the aft end of the aftermost outside surface of the hull shell; and
(b) in respect of a vessel referred to in Part 2, means 96% of the total length on a waterline at 85% of the least moulded depth measured from the top of the keel, or the length from the fore side of the stem to the axis of the rudder stock on that waterline, if that is greater, except that, in vessels designed with a rake of keel, the waterline on which the length is measured shall be parallel to the designed waterline. (longueur)

Minister means the Minister of Transport. (ministre)

power, in respect of an engine, means the power, in kilowatts, that the manufacturer declares has been determined in accordance with the version of International Standard ISO 8665, Small Craft — Marine Propulsion Engines and Systems — Power Measurements and Declarations, that is in effect when the engine is manufactured. (puissance)

TP 13430 means the Standard for the Tonnage Measurement of Vessels, published by the Department of Transport, as amended from time to time. (TP 13430)

SOR/2015-99, s. 2

 PART 1

Registration

Exempted Classes of Vessels

1.1 (1) The following classes of vessels are exempted from the registration requirement in subsection 46(1) of the Act:

(a) vessels that are equipped with one or more primary propulsion engines whose aggregate power is less than 7.5 kW;
(b) vessels that are 8.5 m or less in length and that are propelled by sail alone;
(c) human-powered vessels, other than vessels in respect of which the Special-purpose Vessels Regulations apply; and
(d) vessels that are operated by a recreational boating school for training and that

(i) are not required to hold a safety certificate under section 12 of the Vessel Safety Certificates Regulations, and
(ii) were licensed under section 202 of the Act immediately before being operated by the recreational boating school for training.




(2) Subsection (1) does not apply in respect of vessels that carry more than 12 passengers.


SOR/2015-99, s. 3
SOR/2021-135, s. 35

 Authorization of the Minister to Exempt

1.2 The Minister may, by order, exempt vessels or classes of vessels from the registration requirement in subsection 46(1) of the Act for one year, on any terms and conditions that he or she considers appropriate, if he or she is of the opinion that the exemption is not likely to adversely affect marine safety, and he or she may amend or revoke the exemption.

SOR/2015-99, s. 3

Excluded Government Vessels

1.3 (1) Subsection 46(3) of the Act does not apply in respect of government vessels that

(a) are equipped with one or more primary propulsion engines whose aggregate power is less than 7.5 kW; or
(b) are 8.5 m or less in length and are propelled by sail alone.


(2) Subsection (1) does not apply in respect of vessels that carry more than 12 passengers.


SOR/2015-99, s. 3

Notifying Chief Registrar

2 A notification required under section 58 of the Act shall be in writing.

Notice of Change in Ownership

3 (1) The Chief Registrar shall, under paragraph 60(3)(a) of the Act, give notice of a change in ownership of a Canadian vessel to the owners and registered mortgagees not less than 30 days before cancelling its registration under paragraph 60(2)(b) of the Act.
(2) Notice may be given to an individual

(a) personally, by leaving a copy of it

(i) with the individual, or
(ii) if the individual cannot conveniently be found, with someone who appears to be an adult member of the same household at the last known address or usual place of residence of the individual; or


(b) by sending a copy of it by ordinary mail, courier, fax or other electronic means to the last known address or usual place of residence of the individual.


(3) Notice may be served on a corporation by

(a) sending a copy of it by fax, ordinary mail or courier to the head office or place of business of the corporation or to the corporation’s agent;
(b) leaving a copy of it at the corporation’s head office or place of business with an officer or other individual who appears to be in control of or to manage the head office or place of business or with the corporation’s agent; or
(c) sending a copy of it by electronic means other than fax to an individual referred to in paragraph (b).


(4) Notice that is given by ordinary mail under paragraph (2)(b) or (3)(a) is deemed to be given on the fourth day after the day on which it was mailed.

Prescribed Period for Subsection 60(4) of the Act

4 For the purposes of subsection 60(4) of the Act, the prescribed period within which a person who acquires a vessel or a share in a vessel shall provide evidence that satisfies the Chief Registrar that the vessel is required or entitled to be registered under Part 2 of the Act is 30 days after the day on which the person acquires the vessel or the share.

Evidence that a Vessel Is No Longer Registered in a Foreign State

5 The owner of a vessel previously registered in a foreign state but no longer registered in that state shall provide evidence in the form of an original or true copy of a written document, such as a deletion certificate or an abstract or transcript of registry, that establishes that the vessel is no longer registered in that state and that the foreign register records the vessel as being free and clear of all encumbrances.

PART 2

Tonnage

6 [Repealed, SOR/2015-99, s. 4]

 International Tonnage Certificates (1969)

7 Every Canadian vessel that navigates in any waters and is subject to the 1969 Convention shall hold and keep on board an International Tonnage Certificate (1969).

8 (1) An International Tonnage Certificate (1969) held by a vessel that is transferred from the register of a state that is party to the 1969 Convention to the Register remains valid until the earlier of

(a) the day on which a period of three months after the day on which the vessel is registered in Canada expires, and
(b) the day on which the Minister issues a new International Tonnage Certificate (1969) to the vessel.


(2) An International Tonnage Certificate (1969) held by a Canadian vessel ceases to be valid and shall be cancelled if an alteration resulting in an increase in the tonnage of the vessel, calculated in accordance with this Part, is made in

(a) the arrangement, construction, capacity or use of its spaces;
(b) the total number of passengers that it is permitted to carry, as indicated in its Passenger Ship Safety Certificate issued under section 7 of the Vessel Safety Certificates Regulations; or
(c) its assigned load line or permitted draught.


(3) An International Tonnage Certificate (1969) held by a Canadian vessel remains valid and shall not be cancelled, and a new certificate shall not be issued before 12 months after the day on which the current certificate is issued, if a decrease in the net tonnage of the vessel, calculated in accordance with this Part, results from an alteration in

(a) the arrangement, construction, capacity or use of its spaces;
(b) the total number of passengers that it is permitted to carry, as indicated in its Passenger Ship Safety Certificate issued under section 7 of the Vessel Safety Certificates Regulations; or
(c) the trade in which the vessel is engaged, if the alteration changes its assigned load line.


(4) Subsection (3) does not apply in respect of a vessel that

(a) is transferred to the flag of another state;
(b) undergoes substantial alterations, such as the removal of a superstructure, that require a change of its assigned load line; or
(c) is a passenger vessel that is engaged in the carriage of large numbers of unberthed passengers in a special trade such as the pilgrim trade.


(5) If an International Tonnage Certificate (1969) held by a Canadian vessel is cancelled because of a change in tonnage resulting from an alteration referred to in subsection (2) or (3), the tonnage corresponding to the new characteristics of the vessel shall be calculated in accordance with this Part and, subject to subsection (3), the Minister shall issue a new International Tonnage Certificate (1969) to the vessel in the form set out in Annex II of the 1969 Convention.


SOR/2021-135, s. 36

 Calculating Changes in Tonnage

9 If a Canadian vessel is altered in such a way that the tonnage set out on its certificate of registry may have changed, the vessel’s authorized representative shall ensure that any change in tonnage is calculated in accordance with the method that was used for calculating the tonnage set out on the certificate of registry.

DIVISION 1

Vessels 24 M in Length or More, Except Foreign Vessels

Application

10 This Division applies in respect of the following vessels if they are 24 m in length or more:

(a) a vessel in respect of which an application for the initial registration or listing under Part 2 of the Act has been made;
(b) a Canadian vessel that is altered in such a way that the tonnage set out on its certificate of registry is changed by more than 1% when tonnage is calculated in accordance with the method that was used for calculating the tonnage set out on the certificate of registry;
(c) a vessel in respect of which an application for the registration or listing under Part 2 of the Act has been made if the vessel had been registered or listed in Canada but no longer is when the application is made; and
(d) a Canadian vessel whose tonnage was calculated before October 17, 1994 and that engages on international voyages on or after that date.

Calculation of Tonnage

11 (1) An applicant for the registration of a vessel and the authorized representative of a Canadian vessel shall ensure that the vessel’s tonnage is calculated in accordance with

(a) Part 2 of TP 13430;
(b) directions of the Minister that adapt a calculation method set out in Part 2 of TP 13430 to that vessel, if the vessel has such novel construction features as to render its tonnage incalculable in accordance with Part 2 of TP 13430; or
(c) Annex I to the 1969 Convention.


(2) An applicant for the listing of a vessel shall ensure that its tonnage is calculated in accordance with the method that was used to calculate its tonnage in the foreign state where the vessel’s registration is suspended in respect of the right to fly the flag of that state.

Certificates

12 On application by the authorized representative of a Canadian vessel that is subject to the 1969 Convention and whose tonnage is calculated in accordance with section 11, the Minister shall issue an International Tonnage Certificate (1969) to the vessel in the form set out in Annex II of the 1969 Convention.

13 If a Canadian vessel is subject to the 1969 Convention, the Minister may request a state that is party to the 1969 Convention to calculate the vessel’s tonnage in accordance with Annex I of the 1969 Convention and to issue an International Tonnage Certificate (1969) to the vessel in the form set out in Annex II of the 1969 Convention.