If you’ve spent any time near the Great Lakes or other waterways in Ontario, you may have noticed an increase in the number of abandoned ships dotting the landscape. These boats, which are often left to rot in harbors or along the coast of Transport Canada s jurisdiction, are not only an eyesore, but they can also be very dangerous for both people and the environment.
The Role of The Ministry of Transportation With Abandoned Vessels
But what can be done about these abandoned ships? Is it possible for individuals or organizations to reclaim and repurpose these vessels, or are they doomed to remain abandoned indefinitely?
If you discover an abandoned boat in Ontario, the Ministry of Transportation as well as Transport Canada would like to hear from you. There are a lot of stipulations that may accompany this process, so it is crucial to know what to do when you encounter one.
The good news is that it is possible to reclaim abandoned ships in Ontario. However, the process can be complex and requires a significant amount of time, effort, and resources. Here’s what you need to know if you’re interested in taking on the challenge of reclaiming an abandoned ship in Ontario:
Obtaining Permission To Reclaim The Vessel
The obvious first step is to contact the Ministry of Transportation (MTO). A representative will explain how the procedure works and request particular information about the vessel’s location so that a case number may be assigned. If it appears that the vessel could be sold or repaired, MTO will take steps to get it back into circulation. However, if its state renders it unusable for any purpose other than scrap metal, MTO will likely have little alternative but to delegate disposal to a third party with expertise in this area.
Identify The Ownership Of The Vessel
The next step in reclaiming an abandoned ship is to determine who owns the vessel. This can be a complex process, as ownership of abandoned ships is often unclear or contested. To find the rightful owner, you may need to do a lot of research, such as looking at the vessel’s registration documents and contacting the right government agencies.
Once you have identified the owner of the vessel, you will need to obtain permission to reclaim the ship. Most of the time, this means talking with the owner and maybe signing a purchase or lease agreement. Keep in mind that reclaiming an abandoned ship is often a costly endeavor, so be prepared to invest significant resources into the project.
Assess The Condition Of The Abandoned Vessel
Before you can begin the process of reclaiming an abandoned ship, you will need to assess its condition. This will involve conducting a thorough inspection of the vessel to determine its overall status and any potential hazards. You may need to hire a professional to assess the ship’s condition and provide a report detailing any necessary repairs or renovations.
Develop A Plan For Reclaiming The Vessel
Once you have determined the condition of the vessel and obtained permission to reclaim it, you will need to develop a plan for the project. This will involve outlining the steps necessary to repair and renovate the ship, as well as any additional work that may be required, such as removing hazardous materials or obtaining permits.
There Are A Variety Of Options With a Discovered Wreck.
We can help you if you find a wreck in Ontario and want to import it, salvage it, buy it, or report it in some other way. According to the Wrecked and Abandoned Vessels Act, it is the responsibility of the Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry to register all wrecks in Ontario. This implies that we can assist you if you have discovered an abandoned boat and need assistance reporting it.
Execute The Plan And Bring The Vessel Back To Life
With a plan in place, it’s time to roll up your sleeves and get to work. Depending on the condition of the vessel, reclaiming an abandoned ship can be a time-consuming and labor-intensive process. However, with determination and perseverance, it is possible to bring these forgotten vessels back to life and give them a new purpose.
Reclaiming an abandoned ship in Ontario is not a task for the faint of heart. It requires a significant investment of time, money, and resources. However, for those who are up for the challenge, the rewards can be great. By reclaiming and repurposing these forgotten vessels, you can help to preserve a piece of Ontario’s maritime history and give these abandoned ships a new lease on life.
Practicing Reliable Boat Ownership
Maintenance of your boat in good condition is essential. This includes preventing it from becoming unmoored, lost, or sunk. Additionally, being a responsible boat owner entails carrying current Transport Canada documentation for your vessel at all times.
The National Vessel Registry Center can help you if you need paperwork for a boat. We are a private service that helps Canadian boat owners acquire online paperwork. Browse through our website today for more information.
