Boating in Canada News

Canadian Sailing in 2012 Olympics

2011-12-21T13:58:00.007-06:00

Canada qualified boats for the 2012 London Summer Olympics in the classes it entered at the at the ISAF Sailing World Championships in Perth, Australia in which they entered boats: RS:X (women's windsurfing), Radial (women's one-person dinghy), Finn (men's one-man dinghy /heavyweight) and 470 (men's two-man dinghy). The sailors chosen to represent Canada next summer is still to be determined.

Richard Clarke and Tyler Bjorn have qualified Canada and themselves in Star class at the world sailing championships off Fremantle, Australia.

The eleven Olympic sailing events are: Neilpride RX:S men and women, Laser Men, Laser Radial women, Finn men, 470 men, 470 women, 49er, Star & Women's Match Racing. The Paralympic events are the Sonar and 2.4m and SKUD-18.

Record Muskie released in St. Lawrence River

2011-11-18T09:54:00.004-06:00

A 54-inch muskie (over 70 lb.) was released back to the St. Lawrence River last week by Jason Phillips of Brockville. Phillips and Sandra Ellis were trying out a new boat to fish for some pickerel. He was trolling in 220 feet of water about 6 pm west of St. Lawrence Park when the monster fish struck. He managed to pull it into the boat for measure - without a net!
In 2009, a 65-pound muskie, released back into the St. Lawrence by an Ottawa angler, was recognized as world's biggest catch-and-release.
More: www.ottawasun.com

Fishing along the Canadian border just got complicated

2011-09-08T21:52:00.004-05:00

Canada Border Services went overboard June 29, 2011 by fining Roy Andersen, an American boater in the St. Lawrence, $1000 for fishing in Gananoque Narrows (just across the border in the middle of the river) without reporting to customs. It was either "pay on-the-spot" or CBSA would have handcuffed them and towed the boat to shore.

According to MP Pierre Polievre, the CBSA refunded $999 of the poor guy's fine. One has to wonder what the federal government needed to keep that extra $1 for - I'd love to see the paperwork on that. So far, CBSA has been too proud to back down on this fiasco, which would have solved everything. They "improved" the so-called rules to allow people cruising along the border to phone in, instead of going to a border port. Big deal. You still have to check in if you are simply cruising in the river. Result? No one will come anywhere near Canada - to shop, fish, spend the night, or anything else. Who needs the hassle?! It makes you wonder why anyone would buy a boat. The days of freedom on the water are long over.

There is only improvement that would keep borders open to legitimate travel, but closed to criminals -- just go back to the previous practice of requiring border check-in only after docking or anchoring in Canadian waters. Just like the US border does. Just like it's been for decades. The border in the St. Lawrlence River is invisible for heaven's sake!

86 year old Canadian sails across North Atlantic

2011-09-02T12:40:00.007-05:00

Jack Nye from Mississauga, ON, is currently just north of Flemish Cap (the Grand Banks) sailing to Long Pond, Newfoundland from Bantry Bay, Ireland - his final trans-Atlantic double crossing. He is sailing his specially rigged 29-ft Alberg sailboat with Irish friend Julian as crew. Earlier this summer he left Halifax, sailing non-stop to England, then continued on to Ireland, and now sailing back to Canada. He is about 10 days late, but his family has received a one-way radio message from a ship to say that they are OK. They estimate he should arrive in Long Pond around September 3rd. He should have some good stories to tell - perhaps of an encounter with Hurricane Irene! [Sep.2/2011]

Jack Nye is 86 years old, and a World War 2 Royal Navy veteran. This is his 18th trans-Atlantic double crossing.

Sep. 13, 2011: Jack Nye has returned home safely to Canada.

Update Sep. 28, 2011 from Mark Nye, Jack's son:
This is an update to let you know that my dad has arrived home safe and sound after an amazing double crossing of the North Atlantic aboard his 29-ft Alberg sailboat. He had quite a time with broken rigging and ripped sails on the way over, then pounding rain and strong headwinds on the return crossing. His friend Julian is back in Ireland, and Jack and the boat are back in Mississauga. This was his last of 18 Atlantic crossings plus 3 times around the Horn.

More: Jack Nye 2011 Atlantic Crossings in "Panderama II"

Hatfield takes 3rd in Velux 5 Oceans

2011-05-29T19:49:00.004-05:00

Derek Hatfield, Canada's top solo sailor, took third place in the 30,000-mile 2010/11 Velux 5 Oceans solo round the world yacht race. The 58-year-old sailed the 60-foot Active House across the finish line at 0707 UTC on May 29 in La Rochelle, France. Derek sailed a total of 32,216 miles which took 130 days, 17 hours, 42 minutes. Derek edged out Chris Stanmore-Major for 3rd place overall by only 3 points in the world's toughest sailing race.

Derek is the only Canadian to have sailed solo around the world twice. In the 2002/3 Velux 5 Oceans, his yacht was capsized and the mast lost rounding Cape Horn, but he managed to repair the boat and finished the race. In 2008 he raced in the Vendée Globe but he had to retire when his yacht's rig was damaged.

Derek said, "This was a huge project, two years in preparation and then nine months of sailing and to get it all done is amazing. The sense of accomplishment is huge. It will sink in a bit later when we're tied to the dock and able to relax a bit, but right now it feels good. ... It's my third race round the world, and my second complete circumnavigation. It feels good to be representing Canada and the flag, and that's what it's all about for us."

Canada loves you too Derek!
[www.velux5oceans.com]

New Engine Emission Regulations

2011-05-28T15:03:00.001-05:00

Environment Canada working with NMMA Canada has created new engine emission regulations, which means engines sold in Canada and the U.S.A. will have the same emission requirements. The new regulations will take effect January 2012 affecting outboard, PWC and sterndrive/inboard engines up to 500 hp. Stern drive/inboard engines over 500 hp will begin January 2013. Boat Evaporative Emission systems in January 2015. Announcement: canadagazette.gc.ca

Canadian Derek Hatfield standing 2nd in Velux 5 Oceans

2011-05-09T16:46:00.003-05:00

Derek Hatfield is now tied for 2nd in the overall points heading into the final leg of the Velux 5 Oceans single-handed around-the-world sailing race. In sprint 4 he won the speed gate and came in 2nd. Sprint 5 from Charleston SC to France is 3,600-nautical miles and starts Saturday, May 14. Dekek's site is spiritofcanada.org. You can also follow news via Facebook, Twitter (@Velux5oceans) and the sponsor site Activehouse.info.

Do you Have the Card?

2011-03-17T15:13:00.002-05:00

All boaters in Canada must have a Pleasure Craft Operator Card
to operate a boat with a motor. Even someone driving a fishing boat with a small trolling motor or motorized dinghy must carry the card. If you are caught without it, you could be fined $250!

To obtain an Operator Card, one must learn some boating safety basics and regulations and then pass an exam – available online from BoaterExam.com. You can get a temporary card right away if you pass. The "card" is good for life. (Visiting boaters are exempt unless they boat in Canada for more than 45 days. Rentals have special rules.) For more information see Transport Canada's Office of Boating Safety. A summary can be found on Pat's Boating in Canada: Pleasure Craft Operator Card .

ICC now available to Canadians

2011-03-09T10:23:00.004-06:00

The International Certificate of Competence, issued by the RYA (Britain) and available to those who pass their Day Skipper exam, is recognized by many charter firms in Europe and elsewhere as a marine "operator licence". In the past, it has only been available to British citizens, but a recent change means that the ICC is now available to Canadian and American sailors who already have a Day Skipper (Practical) certificate. [www.classicboat.co.uk]

Canadian Derek Hatfield racing well in Velux 5 Oceans

2011-01-11T16:19:00.004-06:00

Derek Hatfield, currently running a close 3rd in the Velux 5 Oceans race. The sailors have reached the Tasman Sea in the second sprint from South Africa to New Zealand, but they still have about 1000 miles to go, with a choice of routes to be made. You can view the boats on the Raceviewer and listen to his latest voice recording. Dekek's site is spiritofcanada.org. You can also follow news via Facebook, Twitter (@Velux5oceans) and the sponsor site Activehouse.info.

Graeme Kendall Sails Non-stop through Northwest Passage

2010-09-27T12:44:00.005-05:00

63-year-old Kiwi sailor Graeme Kendall has become the first person to sail solo non-stop through the Northwest Passage, completing it in 12 days in a 12.5m boat built for the trip. He is currently in the North Pacific returning home to Auckland, New Zealand. The ice-bound passage north of Canada and Alaska is considered the "Everest of the sailing world". [nzherald.co.nz]

LoranC terminated in both Canada & U.S.A.

2010-08-31T17:59:00.005-05:00

Both the Canadian Coast Guard (CCG) and the United States Coast Guard (USCG) terminated Loran-C navigation services earlier this year. LoranC service is no longer available on the east and west coasts and the Great Lakes and therefore cannot be used for navigation. Comments should be directed to John Festarini, A/Manager, Aids to Navigation, Canadian Coast Guard: John.Festarini@dfo-mpo.gc.ca (613) 998-1411.

U.S. Boaters don't know Canadian Laws

2010-08-24T10:10:00.006-05:00

It probably wouldn't surprise boaters who cruise across that invisible border in the St. Lawrence River that they might run into the Ontario Provincial Police for a safety check. Visitors don't require an operator licence for short stays, but the OPP will check for required safety equipment such as life vests, paddle, throwable floating device, and even a waterproof flashlight. Fines for not having mandatory safety equipment can cost up to $200 for each missing item.

At home, an open container of beer wouldn't cause much trouble, but in Ontario it's illegal and could cost you a $125 fine. If you are impaired, an offence under the Criminal Code of Canada, you can expect a fine of $600 or more. Having or using fishing equipment requires a provincial fishing licence, which can be purchased at some marinas and towns. And leave your guns at home! [Entering Canada by Boat | Transport Canada]

7 Gold for Canadian rowers - first day

2010-08-01T14:35:00.005-05:00

Aug 1/2010: Canadian rowers won 7 gold medals on the first day of the Commonwealth Rowing Championships in Welland, Ontario. Josh Morris (Victoria) gold in men’s singles, silver in men’s four with Tom Watson (Victoria), Mike Lewis (Dorchester ON), and Kristjan Joubert (St.-Lambert PQ), and bronze with Lewis in men’s pair. Watson and Joubert won gold in men’s doubles. Liz Fenje and Patricia Obee (Victoria), won lightweight women’s doubles. Catherine Bouchard-Piolte (Boucherville PQ) and Laura Cowel (Thorold ON), won women’s pair. Obee won gold in lightweight women’s singles. Canada also won gold in the men’s doubles and lightweight men’s doubles. [news: ottawacitizen.com | crc2010.org ]

Transport Canada launches E-licensing

2010-05-06T18:29:00.003-05:00

Mélanie Quesnel, Transport Canada, says: “Participating boat dealers (only 35 this year) will able to submit applications for pleasure craft licences electronically on behalf of their customers”. The current procedure is to fax in licence applications, which will take anywhere from 4-7 days. Licences can be obtained faster from Service Canada offices. Boat licences moves from Service Canada to Transport Canada in November 2010.

Atlantic Salmon returning to Lake Ontario

2010-04-22T11:34:00.006-05:00

After 150-years, Atlantic salmon from hatcheries are adapting to the wild, and once again spawning in the Credit River, Cobourg Creek and Duffins Creek, near Toronto. It's hoped the salmon will spread to other creeks around Lake Ontario. Native Atlantics died out due to overfishing, development, mills, and dams that stopped the fish from travelling upstream to spawn. A government restoration program coordinated with local fishing groups has resulted in success last fall. [mnr.gov.on.ca]

2 Canadians to race in Velux 5 Oceans

2010-04-21T13:28:00.004-05:00

Canada currently has two sailors committed to race in the Velux 5 Oceans (former Around Alone) starting October 17: Derek Hatfield and John Dennis. Derek Hatfield has entered several ocean races in "Spirit of Canada". Hatfield was forced to quit the non-stop Vendee Globe 2008 in Australia. Dennis was forced to retire from the Around Alone 2002 on the third leg to New Zealand, and was the first sailor with diabetes to compete in a solo around-the-world race.

The Velux 5 Oceans is the longest single-handed event in the world - 30,000 nautical miles (55,000 km) around the world raced in legs in Open 60 monohull sailboats. [Velux 5 Oceans | John Dennis | spiritofcanada.net: Derek Hatfield ]

Canadian Yacht leads Race 7 of Clipper 09-10

2010-03-23T13:48:00.007-05:00

The Canadian yacht Cape Breton Island, is 405 km in the lead in Race 7 from Qindago to San Francisco of the Clipper 09-10 Round the World Yacht Race. Starting in September 2009, the race is expected to finish in Britain in July 2010. www.clipperroundtheworld.com

Canadian Sailors missing after Earthquake

2010-03-22T12:13:00.006-05:00

Josée (Jade) Chabot (Montreal) was one of six aboard the training vessel SS Columbia, a 13-metre sailboat that was en route from Ecuador on Jan. 16 to Coquimbo, Chile to arrive end of February. An 8.8-magnitude earthquake struck Chile on Feb. 27, resulting in a tsunami along the coast. The boat has not been heard from since. Chabot took the journey to earn her skipper's licence. Another person on board is reported to be a woman from Nelson, B.C. [www.cbc.ca] Posted March 22, 2010.

April 12, 2010: The SS Columbia and all crew finally arrived in Chile after their families reported them missing at sea. The crew claimed the captain refused to let them use the radio to contact family when they found themselves becalmed far out to sea. [www.cbc.ca]

Canadian Students survive Ship Sinking

2010-03-04T20:13:00.006-06:00

Sixty-four Canadian students spent nearly 40 hours in life rafts after their three-mast ship, the SV Concordia sank in stormy conditions February 18. The ship was caught in a microburst - a vertical column of air pushing downward - in the Atlantic Ocean 550 km off southeastern coast of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. The survival of all aboard is attributed to preparation, training, equipment and communal effort. All returned safely to Canada. The class-at-sea is operated by West Island College International of Lunenburg, N.S. (www.canada.com)

Canadian to try first human-powered voyage to Hawaii

2010-02-04T17:32:00.003-06:00

In July, Greg Kolodziejzyk, a Canadian adventurer, plans to pedal his boat "WiTHiN", 4,300 km (2672mi) from British Columbia to Hawaii - a world-first.

In 2006, Kolodziejzyk broke the record for the longest distance traveled in one day under human power in a custom-built fully-enclosed recumbent bicycle. In 2007, on a pedal-powered trimaran, he broke the aquatic version of that same record. (Greg's Blog)

Loran Navigation service ends in 2010

2010-01-15T20:05:00.001-06:00

On Jan. 7, 2010, the U.S. announced it will begin decommissioning of all Loran-C transmitters on February 8, 2010. The service will continue temporarily to comply with Canadian agreements, but the Canadian Coast Guard has decided (not official) it will decommission its Loran-C system. All Loran system are expected to stop by Oct. 1, 2010. Contact the Canadian Coast Guard Joanna.bellamy@dfo-mpo.gc.ca - 613-998-1405. [CCG Loran-C | Wikipedia

Publish Post

.org]

Loran-C service ends February 2010

2010-01-08T19:38:00.003-06:00

The U.S. Coast Guard published notice regarding its intention to terminate transmission of the LORAN-C signal Feb. 8, 2010. There is no information from the Canadian government about Loran service, so boaters should stop using Loran navigation equipment. [www.navcen.uscg.gov/Loran]

2 Canadian Golds at ISAF Sailing World Cup

2009-12-26T18:44:00.003-06:00

Canada got reward from its star performers with top-10 ranked Michael Leigh (Royal Vancouver Yacht Club) collecting first in Laser class. Paul Tingley (Royal Nova Scotia Yacht Squadron) showed why he’s the reigning Paralympic Champion with a hard-fought win in the 2.4mR event. [www.sailing.org]

Cape Breton entry in the Clipper Around the World Yacht Race

2009-11-25T18:39:00.006-06:00

Cape Breton Island the Canadian entry in the Clipper Around the World Yacht Race; a ten months, 56,300-km ocean race involving 400 sailors.The Clipper 09-10 Round the World Yacht Race started 13 September 2009 with 10 open 20-metre yachts embarked on a circumnavigation of the globe. They will return to the United Kingdom in July 2010. www.clipperroundtheworld.com

Tingley wins Bronze in 2.4-metre Worlds

2009-11-08T16:50:00.002-06:00

Halifax sailor Paul Tingley, will return to Canada with a bronze from the 2.4-metre world championships, which ended Friday in Florida. Tingley who won gold at the 2008 Paralympics in China, sails out of the Royal Nova Scotia Yacht Squadron.

Canada proposes better Marine Safety

2009-09-26T19:14:00.004-05:00

Last Thursday, tThe federal government announced proposals to improve marine safety and security, with new international shipping requirements for tracking systems aboard vessels such as passenger vessels with 12+ passengers and cargo vessels of 300 gross tonnes taking international voyages. These long-range identification and tracking systems transmit identity and position to other countries. Canada would also be able to receive identification from foreign vessels navigating within 1,000 nautical miles of its shores. The International Maritime Organization has adopted long-range identification and tracking of vessels in order to protect marine environments and aid shipping security.

The Long-Range Identification and Tracking of Vessels Regulations were pre-published in the Canada Gazette, Part I, on September 19, 2009. A 30-day public comment period follows, after which the regulations will be published in the Canada Gazette, Part II.

All Boaters require an Operator Card by September 15

2009-09-12T17:10:00.003-05:00

Starting September 15, boaters in Canada without a Pleasure Craft Operator Card could be fined $250. The new regulation applies to all Canadian boaters - there is no grandfather clause. Even someone driving a fishing boat with a small trolling motor must carry a card. To obtain an Operator Card, one must learn some boating safety basics and pass an exam – available online from BoaterExam.com - you can get a temporary card instantly if you pass. For more information see Transport Canada: Office of Boating Safety. The "card" is good for life. (Non-residents are exempt unless they boat in Canada for more than 45 days, or are using a boat registered in Canada.) {boating.ncf.ca/pcoc.html}

Jade Scognamillo now Youngest to Swim across Lake Ontario

2009-08-05T22:11:00.004-05:00

On August 1, 15-year-old Jade Scognamillo became the youngest person to swim across Lake Ontario, swimming 52 km. from Niagara-on-the-Lake to Toronto. A new Canadian citizen, Jade raised $35,000 for the Hospital For Sick Children. Last summer, she set the record as the youngest and fastest person to ever cross Lake Erie. lfpress.ca

Ontario: Dispose of your Expired Marine Flares August 1-8, 2009

2009-07-25T14:08:00.003-05:00

From August 1 to 8, 2009, anyone with expired recreational marine flares who wishes to dispose of them, can drop them off at any of the 165 OPP detachments across Ontario. At the end of the week, the OPP will turn the expired flares in to Transport Canada's Office of Boating Safety for safe transport to a certified disposal site. micro.newswire.ca

Great Lakes water levels rebound

2009-07-19T19:55:00.003-05:00

Great Lakes water levels are rebounding after a decade-long drop. During the mid-1980s, levels were high. A sudden drop began in the late 1990s. It forced cargo ships to lighten their loads to avoid grounding. If the estimates prove accurate, global warming will cause the lakes to recede up to 3 feet this century. www.freep.com

Canadian Rowers win 3 in 2009 Rowing World Cup

2009-07-17T21:18:00.004-05:00

All three Canadian crews entered in the finals at the 2009 Rowing World Cup in Lucerne, Switzerland came away with medals — two silvers and a bronze. The men’s eight was second behind Germany. Doug Vandor of Dewittville, Que., and Cam Sylvester of Caledon, Ont., won their second silver medal of the season in the lightweight men’s double event behind New Zealand. Lindsay Jennerich of Victoria, and Sheryl Preston of North Delta, B.C., clinched bronze in the lightweight women’s double. www.vancouversun.com

Men 25 to 34 have Highest Risk of Drowning

2009-07-17T20:25:00.004-05:00

Recent reports by the Canadian Red Cross says adult males 25 to 34 are most at-risk of drowning while boating with 39% of drownings occurring as a result of a boating mishap. Alcohol was present or suspected in half of those drownings. The reports concluded that nearly 2,000 boating deaths over the past decade might have been prevented had basic boating safety measures been taken, such as wearing a life jacket. timestranscript.canadaeast.com

Canadian Boats Visiting the U.S. will require a $49 Licence

2009-07-17T19:56:00.006-05:00

After Sept. 19, 2009, Canadian boaters will have to have a $49 licence to operate a powered boat in the U.S. In contrast, Americans boating in Canadian waters only have to apply for an operator licence if they stay more than 45 consecutive days. www2.canada.com

Three gold medals for Canada at Pan Am canoe and kayak championships

2009-07-17T19:42:00.003-05:00

Congratulations to Canadian paddlers Mallorie Nicholson of Oakville, Ont., and the canoe pairs team of Jenna Marks and Maria Halavrezos, both of Dartmouth, N.S., collected their third gold medals in the 200-metre finals at the Pan American canoe and kayak championships in Rio De Janeiro July 5. Canada finished with 23 medals: 11 gold, 10 silver and 2 bronze. www.canoekayak.ca | www.cbc.ca

Publish Post

Smuggling across Canada-USA Water Borders

2009-06-28T12:07:00.003-05:00

U.S. law enforcement is putting more resources into stopping smuggling across the waterways between Michigan and Ontario -- primarily narcotics and illegal immigrants coming into Michigan and alcohol and cigarettes going into Canada. U.S. Border Patrol made 761 arrests last year in Michigan, mostly along the St. Clair and Detroit rivers. Detroit Free Press | Boating in Canada News: U.S. and Canadian Border Security

"Element Quest" plans circumnavigation

2009-06-10T19:15:00.004-05:00

Ken Kell and Ashley Acheson of Ontario purchased a 15 metre (48') pilot-house cutter, renamed "Element Quest", with plans to take the sailboat on a 35,000-mile circumnavigation. Kell is a longtime extreme sports athlete known for snowboarding, skydiving and climbing is a trained chef. They are signing on crew online for various legs of the voyage from ocean to coastal cruising.
[News: fosters.com | adrenalinsports.ca/thequest]

'Perfect Storm' fisherman convicted in Canada

2009-06-10T18:47:00.004-05:00

Maine fisherman and author Linda Greenlaw, who survived the Atlantic storm that was the basis for the book and movie "The Perfect Storm" has been convicted on charges of illegally fishing inside Canadian waters. Greenlaw was the last person in contact with the Andrea Gail before it sank in the 1991 storm.
Google News National Post

Passports required to enter the U.S. by Boat

2009-05-30T21:26:00.003-05:00

Starting Monday, June 1, 2009, everyone will need a passport to enter the U.S. by land or boat. Also accepted: NEXUS card, FAST Free and Secure Trade card, or enhanced drivers licence (in provinces where available). (Canada has not changed any requirements to enter Canada from the States.) [Homeland Security | U.S. Customs & Border Protection (CBP)]

Ontario Wind Turbines Start up near Kingston

2009-05-30T21:08:00.004-05:00

125-metre wind towers on Wolfe Island in eastern Lake Ontario are starting operation to generate approximately 594 GWh annually. The $475 million project is the second largest wind farm in Canada. It has 86 wind turbines, each 2.3 MW, in western Wolfe Island, south of Kingston. kingstonthisweek.com/...

Andy Lepiarczyk completes Solo Around-the-world Voyage

2009-05-30T20:44:00.002-05:00

Andy Lepiarczyk, in his nine-metre (30') Figaro Beneteau sailboat the "Mighty Chicken", is back in West Vancouver after sailing around the world in 13 months.
vancouversun.com...

U.S. and Canadian Border Security

2009-05-26T17:54:00.003-05:00

U.S. Homeland Security Secretary Janet Napolitano met with Public Safety Minister Peter Van Loan in Canada in May 2009. She has said recently: "To the extent that terrorists have come into our country, or suspected or known terrorists have entered our country across a border, it's been across the Canadian border." (She was rebuked by Canadian Ambassador Michael Wilson for this ignorant statement.) This is now known as the "Canadian Myth", continually repeated by top U.S. officials and politicians, including Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, who wants to tighten security along the Canada-U.S. border because "it was simply 'too porous' following the Sept. 11, 2001, terror attacks."

It is expected that Project Shiprider will be made permanent. It's a little-known, and controversial, project allowing the RCMP and the U.S. Coast Guard to conduct joint armed patrols of shared waterways such as the St. Lawrence Seaway and the Strait of Georgia, B.C. While on Canadian boats in Canadian waters, USCG officers act under RCMP authority but have arrest powers.
[May/2009 http://www.nationalpost.com...]

Project Shiprider began in Detroit/Windsor in 2005. On three separate occasions, the RCMP (Royal Canadian Mounted Police) and the USCG (U.S. Coast Guard) have collaborated on this special marine security project in border waters. [Sep/2005 http://www.piersystem.com...]

Fact: According to the U.S. Secretary, Department of Homeland Security, most people who illegally enter the U.S. come from Mexico and 1% enter from Canada (2007).

Fact: None of the terrorists involved in the 9/11 attacks entered the U.S. from Canada. They came from other countries with valid U.S. visas.

Facts from RCMP: [Aug/2008 http://www.rcmp-grc.gc.ca...]

One Frequency for Emergency Beacons

2009-04-05T18:20:00.001-05:00

Canadian Coast Guard Search and Rescue (COSPASSARSAT) now monitors EPIRBs (Emergency Position-Indicating Radio Beacon) only on frequency 406 MHz as of February 2009. Old EPIRBs transmitting on 121.5 MHz and 243 MHz can still be used for direction finding by the Coast Guard, but should be replaced with new ones. [Emergency Beacons (Canada)]

HST will add costs for Ontario Boaters

2009-04-04T16:57:00.004-05:00

If Ontario institutes a 13% HST 'harmonized tax' by combining the 8% PST (provincial sales tax) and the 5% GST (good and services tax), it will cover a range of services previously exempt from PST. Ontario boaters will start to pay an extra 8% on these costs: dockage, winter storage, mast stepping, haulout, holding tank pump out, fuels, surveys, legal and brokerage fees. Add up your bills and multiply by .08 - a cruiser using marina services will pay hundreds of dollars of additional tax. (Nova Scotia, New Brunswick and Newfoundland already have HST. Alberta has no sales tax.)

Fishing in Ontario

2009-03-12T16:00:00.006-05:00

Starting in 2009, Americans who fish in Canadian waters will require the Canadian Outdoors Card (about $9, valid for three years), the same as for Canadian residents. The new regulations are is the first part of a new licensing automation system that will begin in 2010.
The card can be ordered by phoning 1-800-667-1940 using a credit card. A 2009 Ontario fishing licence can be ordered at the same time - a regular licence, a conservation licence, 8-day licence. A one-day licence does not require getting the Outdoors Card. The cards take up to six weeks to arrive by postal mail. Americans may take a state-registered boat into Canada for up to 45 consecutive days without requiring a Pleasure Craft Operator Card. (Details: mnr.gov.on.ca)

Passports to enter the U.S.A. by Boat this Summer

2009-02-01T14:39:00.007-06:00

In June 2009, everyone will need a passport* to enter the U.S. by land or boat. If you are getting one for the first time, apply well before June. (Currently, Canadians flying into the U.S. must have a passport, but you may enter by car or boat with a birth certificate plus a government-issued photo ID.)
The new United States Homeland Security Secretary Janet Napolitano is calling for a review of the U.S.-Canada border situation, pressured by some members of U.S. Congress and Homeland Security experts who are requesting greater security at the border. (Canada has not changed any requirements to enter Canada from the States.) U.S. Customs & Border Protection (CBP)
*Also accepted in addition to a passport: NEXUS card, FAST Free and Secure Trade card, or enhanced drivers licence (in provinces where available).

Derek Hatfield retires from "The Vendee Globe"

2008-12-29T15:43:00.006-06:00

Yesterday, Derek Hatfield had a knock down aboard "Algimouss Spirit of Canada" in the The Vendee Globe race. Derek writes: "... the boat went over and I ended up on the ceiling with all kinds of articles whizzing past me. The boat came upright immediately and the carnage inside was immediate. I rushed on deck and my heart sank to see two of the spreaders dangling limp on the shrouds. The shock hits you quickly that this is not fixable and the end of the race is here already."
At 1527 GMT today Derek Hatfield formally retired from the sixth Vendee Globe, the world's most challenging yacht race. Derek is currently south of Australia, trying to reach Hobart, Tasmania (estimated 8 days). Canada is proud of you, Derek. We send our prayers to you, your team, and family.
vendeeglobe.org :: spiritofcanada.net
Nov.13/08: Derek Hatfield returns for repairs in Round the World Race
Apr.19/08: Derek Hatfield qualifies for Round the World Race

Canadian Solar Boat moves to the U.S.A.

2008-12-27T13:57:00.004-06:00

Electric boat designer and builder Monty Gisborne, who was planning to build his solar pontoon boat Loon in Ontario, is moving south to Buffalo, N.Y., lured by a $500,000 grant. When Gisborne cruised the Loon on the Rideau Canal in 2006, he barely attracted any attention. But, in 2007, he took the Loon through the Erie Canal in New York State and was swamped with media coverage - and an offer of funding. He plans to hire 60 people to build 50 Loons per year. Before he leaves Canada, he will build the biggest solar boat in North America, the Osprey, for the Toronto and Region Conservation Authority.
In 1997, a report created with the participation of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, estimated that pleasure craft expel unburned fuel into waterways every year that is the equivalent of 15 Exxon Valdez super tanker spills.

Dec-08: "Orillia Packet" | Mar-07: Solar "Loon" goes Cruising | TamarackElectricboats.com

Halifax Sailor to Row around the World

2008-11-13T13:53:00.002-06:00

Professional sailor and navigator Sergei Morozov, is planning an ambitious adventure to circumnavigate the world solo in a rowing boat so he can raise funds to aid children affected by war. Once he secures sponsorship, he hopes to launch from Halifax late next summer, rowing the Atlantic, Pacific and Indian oceans. Originally from Russia, Morozovm, 44, sailed from England to Halifax five years ago with his daughter Aleksandra and currently runs a shipping crew agency. Contact Morozov at rowingaroundtheworld@hotmail.com. [www.nowpublic.com]

Derek Hatfield returns for repairs in Round the World Race

2008-11-13T12:37:00.005-06:00

Derek Hatfield, 56, in "Algimouss Spirit of Canada" began The Vendee Globe race November 9 with 30 other boats. He reported electrical problems after a gale and returned to Les Sables d'Olonne, France for repairs. Race rules allow 10 days to restart. Algimouss came on board as sponsor but Hatfield is still short of funds. Hatfield is the first and only Canadian to attempt this single-handed yacht race, non-stop eastward around the world via the southern oceans (23,680 n.mi.), starting in France. Only 126 sailors have ever circumnavigated alone.
Nov. 15: Derek has restarted 6 days late, currently doing 10 kts with the lead boats 1,000 n.mi. ahead.
Nov. 25: Second last out of 26 boats still in the race, approaching the equator by Africa, 1,487 n.mi. behind leader.
[vendeeglobe.org News | spiritofcanada.net]

Court says Fish Licences are Private Property

2008-10-26T19:10:00.004-05:00

On Friday, Canada’s top court ruled that fish licences are, in effect, private property. The Supreme Court of Canada unanimously sided with the Royal Bank. "A fishing licence is unquestionably a major commercial asset," it said in a case involving a bankrupt fisherman trying to prevent the seizure of his licences.

A study of worldwide fisheries published last month in the journal Science found that individual transferrable quotas (ITQs) greatly reduce the collapse of commercial fisheries. ITQ fisheries harvesting stocks in an orderly fashion, when demand is strong, can even reverse stock declines. [thechronicleherald.ca...]

Canadian sets Pedal Boat World Record

2008-09-22T16:39:00.004-05:00

Greg Kolodziejzyk from Calgary, Alberta, set a new world record by pedalling his human-powered boat "Critical Power 2" 241.8 km (151.3 miles) in 24 hours. He started Monday, September 8 and finishing the next day. Official observers from the International Human Powered Vehicle Association were stationed along the course to verify that Kolodziejzyk stayed to the outside of the markers and travelled the full distance measured. The record must be ratified by the IHPVA and Guinness World Records.

Canadians excel in 2008 Paralympics

2008-09-14T19:12:00.007-05:00

Canada's athletes have won 50 medals at the Paralympic Games in Beijing, China - with 19 gold, 10 silver, and 21 bronze. Canada rated 7th in gold and tenth overall out of 148 countries.

The Sailing team won 3 medals. Paul Tingley (Halifax NS) won gold in 1P keelboat (2.4mR), the first sailing gold in a Paralympic games. John Scott McRoberts (Victoria, BC) and Stacie Louttit (Victoria, BC) won bronze in 2P keelboat.

The Swimming team won 21 medals. In Women's 200m individual medley, Chelsey Gotell (Antigonish, NS) won gold with a new world record with 5 medals overall. Kirby Cote (Winnipeg, MB) and Valerie Grand'Maison (Montreal, QC), with 5 medals, were second and third. The three won again in the women's 100m butterfly, but in a different order. Stephanie Dixon (Victoria, BC) with 4 medals, won gold in the women's 100-metre backstroke and broke her own world record. Benoit Huo won 3 medals, and Anne Polinario won a gold. [2008 Paralympics | Canada - 2008 Paralympics ]

Quebec think-tank advocates Selling Canada's Water

2008-09-14T18:11:00.003-05:00

The Montreal Economic Institute, has released a report (Aug 27) that says Quebec could make up to $65 billion a year by selling “just 10%” of its blue gold to the United States to the south. They suggest that redefining water as a trade item would actually protect Canada’s water resources by requiring the creation of “a legal and regulatory framework.”

The report conflicts with Canadian public opinion. Since the 1960’s, Canadians have rejected ideas by private companies and the U.S. government to divert bulk quantities of Canada’s fresh water or to turn water into a tradeable commodity like oil or wood. Although the World Resources Institute lists Canada #3 in renewable water (replenished by precipitation), the Polaris Institute noted 60% of Canada’s rivers flow away from populated areas into the Arctic and cannot be used by even Canada.

Montreal Economic Institute report: http://www.iedm.org/main/show_publications_en.php?publications_id=226
Polaris Institute: http://www.polarisinstitute.org/turning_on_canada_s_tap_0
| http://www.polarisinstitute.org/critics_dump_on_water_study

Canadian Sailor enters SolOceans Race

2008-08-28T14:13:00.002-05:00

Phil Paxton has officially announced he will enter the first ever SolOceans® solo around-the-world sailing competition. The race will begin on October 25, 2009 and feature competitors from around the world. What makes the SolOceans race unique is that all competitors race using Veolia Oceans® one-design Bostik 16-metre sailboats with identical sails and equipment. Paxton is currently seeking sponsors, including a title sponsor to name the boat.

Phil Paxton has made several solo oceanic voyages starting in 1979. He's crossed every ocean at least once, and spent two years cruising the South Pacific with his family. This will be the first time Paxton has attempted to sail solo around the world – a venture requiring skill and endurance. Paxton just sailed from France to New York aboard the first boat built for the race, identical to the vessel he will be sailing.
[www.soloceans.com | www.globalsails.ca]

Boats win one-third of Canada's Olympic medals

2008-08-25T10:42:00.004-05:00

Six of Canada's 18 Olympic medals were won by Canadian athletes using oars and paddles!

Rowing - Men's Eights with Coxswain (Gold Medal) Kyle Hamilton (Richmond BC), Adam Kreek (London Ont), Dominic Seiterle (Victoria BC), Malcolm Howard (Victoria BC), Jake Wetzel (Saskatoon SK), Andrew Byrnes (Toronto ON), Ben Rutledge (Cranbrook BC), Kevin Light (Sidney BC), Brian Price (Belleville ON).
Rowing - Men's Pair (Silver Medal) Dave Calder (Victoria BC) and Scott Frandsen (Kelowna BC)
Rowing - Men's Lightweight Sculls (Bronze Medal) Iain Brambell (Victoria BC), Jon Beare (Toronto ON), Mike Lewis (Victoria BC), Liam Parsons (Thunder Bay ON)
Rowing - Women's Lightweight Double Sculls (Bronze Medal) Melanie Kok (St. Catharines ON) and Tracy Cameron (Shubenacadie NS)
Kayaking - Men's K-1 500m (Silver Medal) Adam van Koeverden (Oaville ON)
Canoeing - Men's C-1 1000m (Bronze Medal) Thomas Hall (Pointe-Claire PQ)

In canoeing, men's C-2 1000m, Canadians Andrew Russell and Gabriel Beauchesne-Sevigny finished 6th Canada's sailing team qualified in 9 out of 11 boat classes and had several top-10 results. Oskar Johansson (Oakville ON) and Kevin Stittle (Orangeville ON) were 4th in Tornado. Chris Cook (Toronto) was 5th in Finn. Mike Leigh (Vancouver) finished 9th in Laser. [Olympic news: www.cbc.ca/olympics]

Canadian Sailing Team for Olympics

2008-07-23T14:32:00.005-05:00

The Canadian Yachting Association (CYA) announced its sailing team of 14 for 8 events in the Summer Beijing Olympics Games (sailing events will be held at Qingdao, China). Several are favoured to win medals. Chris Cook has four consecutive top 10 finishes in the finn worlds and is ranked 10th by the International Sailing Federation: Olympics. Mike Leigh won the 2008 Semaine Olympique Francais and is ranked fifth in the world. Oskar Johansson and Kevin Stittle were second at the Tornado World Championships and are currently ranked seventh. Members of the Canadian Olympic sailing team are:

Finn: Chris Cook, Toronto
Laser: Mike Leigh, Vancouver
Tornado: Oskar Johansson, Toronto - Kevin Stittle, Orangeville, Ont.
49er: Gordon Cook , Toronto - Ben Remocker, Vancouver
Radial: Lisa Ross, Halifax
Windsurfing: Zac Plavsic - Nikola Girke, Vancouver;
470: Stephane Locas , Montreal - Oliver Bone, Beaconsfield, Que.
yngling: Jen Provan, Toronto - Martha Henderson, Toronto - Katie Abbott, Sarnia, Ont.

Canadian Lakes to be used as Mining Dumps

2008-07-20T10:30:00.003-05:00

June 2008: 16 pristine Canadian lakes from B.C. to Newfoundland may soon be "reclassified" by the federal government as toxic dump sites for mines. The Fisheries Act makes it illegal to put harmful substances into fish-bearing waters, but in a little-known exception to mining effluent regulations in Schedule Two, lakes and rivers can be reclassified as "tailings impoundment areas" allowing mining companies to dump toxic mine tailings directly into the lake or river instead of building expensive containment ponds. From March 2008 to March of 2009, 8 Canadian lakes are slated to be put on Schedule Two without considering environmental or recreational impact -- without public consulation. Future contamination of fish, wildlife and downstream waters is inevitable. It is not too late to contact your MP or the Minister of Fisheries & Oceans. [www.cbc.ca/..]

Canada will have 8 rowing boats in Olympics

2008-06-19T19:17:00.006-05:00

Eight Canadian boats are bound for Beijing, after a regatta in Poland: men's eight, women's eight W8, women's quad, lightweight men's four, men's pair M2, women's pair, lightweight men's double M2, and lightweight women's double.

W8+ Jane Rumball (Fredericton NB), Marquardt (Richmond BC), Buffy Williams (St. Catharines ON), Romina Stefancic (Victoria BC), Ashley Brzozowicz (Toronto), Sarah Bonikowsky (Orangeville ON), Andréanne Morin (Montreal), Heather Mandoli (Kelowna BC), and Lesley Thompson-Willie (London ON).
M2- Scott Frandsen (Kelowna BC) and Dave Calder (Victoria BC).
LM2x Douglas Vandor (Dewittville PQ) and Cameron Sylvester (Caledon ON).
Rowing Canada's final decisions will be made June 24.

Canadian Paddlers in all 12 Olympic Events

2008-05-22T18:47:00.006-05:00

For the first time ever, Canada will race in all 12 sprint canoe and kayak races at the Olympic Games. Canada's previous highest number of boats qualified was 10 in 2004. Events are K-1 500m Men, K-1 1000m Men, K-2 500m Men, K-2 1000m Men, K-4 1000m Men, C-1 500m Men, C-1 1000m Men, C-2 500m Men, C-2 1000m Men, K-1 500m Women, K-2 500m Women, K-4 500m Women.
Some of the qualifiers are Kristin Gauthier of Ottawa. Mylanie Barre of Lac-Beauport, Que., Karen Furneaux of Waverley, N.S., Andrew Russell of Dartmouth, N.S., Gabriel Beauchesne-Sevigny of Trois-Rivieres, Que. [2008 Olympic Canoe/Kayak Events]

Derek Hatfield qualifies for Round the World Race

2008-04-19T16:41:00.006-05:00

Canadian sailor Derek Hatfield officially qualified to enter the Vendee Globe 2008 singlehanded non-stop race around the world by completing the qualifier race, Transat Ecover B2B, from Brazil to France. His Canadian-built Open 60, Spirit of Canada will carry the official race number; #15. Hatfield is the only Canadian in the race and will be the first Canadian team to attempt the race. The Vendee Globe, is a single-handed yacht race, non-stop eastward around the world via the southern oceans, starting in France in November 2008.

Hatfield is currently sailing the boat back to Canada to work on it and raise the additional money required for the venture. He has raised funds through corporate donations and his "Around Together" campaign that puts small donors' names on the hull for a small donation. He has raised $1,600,000 from 5200 small donations, but needs to raise much more before the start of the race.

Angus & Julie Angus embark on paddling/cycling voyage

2008-03-16T13:20:00.004-05:00

Colin and Julie Angus, married in British Columbia since previous record-breaking "human-powered" trips, have just begun their next adventure. They are travelling 7,000 km from Scotland, through Britain, Europe, and the Middle East to Syria on two 5.5 metre (18') rowboats named Niobium and Tantalum. Each boats carries a bicycle and boat trailer to enable land travel. Colin's book, Beyond The Horizon: The Great Race to Complete The First Human Powered Circumnavigation Of The World was recently released; Julie's book about rowing across the Atlantic, Rowboat in a Hurricane: A Woman's Journey Across a Changing Ocean, will be available later this year. [http://www.rowedtrip.com]
BICN Oct/2006: Canadians complete first Human-powered Circumnavigation
2007 National Geographic: Adventurers of the Year

U.S. Great Lakes pollution report delayed

2008-02-26T18:41:00.004-06:00

Canadian biologist Mike Gilbertson, a reviewer, and Herb Gray, the Canadian chair of the International Joint Commission, are calling for the release of a study on the effects of Great Lakes pollution.

The study by the U.S. Centers Publish Postfor Disease Control and Prevention is called "Public Health Implications of Hazardous Substances in 26 U.S. Great Lakes Areas of Concern". It suggests that Americans living in 26 polluted areas around the Great Lakes face higher rates of lung, breast and colon cancer, have low birth weights and high infant mortality. The findings have important health ramifications for Canadians. [www.cbc.ca | www.ijc.org]

Boating: $26.8 billion to Canada's '06 Economy

2008-01-17T11:49:00.000-06:00

The Canadian Discover Boating program has released an Economic Impact Study of Recreational Boating in Canada 2006. Canada's recreational boating had a $26.8 billion impact on Canada's economy in 2006 - in jobs, sales, travel, repairs, taxes, tourism revenues and consumer spending. Canadian boaters spent C$15.6 billion on boat and engine sales, accessories and other boating expenses in 2006. The report also indicates 373,606 jobs and 10% of Canada's tourist dollars come from recreational boating. (Study by: Genesis Public Opinion Research Inc. with Smith/Gunther Associates) [News | CMMA: Discover Boating | ibinews.com]

New rules to Enter the U.S. by boat

2008-01-14T19:44:00.000-06:00

Beginning January 31, 2008, all U.S. and Canadian citizens must have more identification to enter the U.S.A. by boat, ferry, train, or bus. Under a new U.S. law, all travelers over 19 years of age must have a proof of citizenship (birth certificate, naturalization certificate) and government-issued photo ID (drivers license) at U.S. land and sea border stations. Passports are valid for both requirements. Children 18 and under will need just a birth certificate for now. (Passports are currently required to enter the U.S. by air, and will be required for all travel to the U.S. by June 2009) [U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP)]

Canadian attempts Circumnavigation Record

2008-01-05T13:17:00.006-06:00

Glenn Wakefield is attempting to become the first person to sail solo, non-stop around the world westward from North America. He departed Victoria on September 23, 2007, and expects to return by July 2008. At last report, Glenn was in the Southern Ocean near Australia heading to Cape Horn.

His 12-metre yacht "Kim Chow" is a Rhodes designed Cheoy Lee Offshore 40' sloop built in 1969, and refitted extensively for the voyage. He is reported sailing west in the Southern Ocean near Australia. Sailing west in the "Roaring 40's" against prevailing winds and currents is much more difficult than sailing east. [kimchowaroundtheworld.com]

April 2008 update: Glen has ended his voyage after his sloop was damaged when it rolled over in a storm off the Falkland Islands. He suffered a concussion in the event and was picked up by an Argentinian naval vessel, who stood by 48 hours before they could safely transfer him to their ship.

Single Vessel Label Program Discontinued

2007-12-16T14:59:00.000-06:00

Transport Canada has decided to discontinue the Single Vessel Label Program before the regulations contained within the Canada Shipping Act 2001 come into effect (the Act came into force on July 1, 2007). Vessels that are not serially produced will no longer be required to have a Single Vessel Label. If your boat does not presently have a Capacity or Conformity Label, you will no longer be required to obtain one.
[Canada Shipping Act, 2001 | Transport Canada's Office of Boating Safety]

Fish farm parasites wiping out Wild Salmon

2007-12-14T15:03:00.000-06:00

Parasitic sea lice (Lepeophtheirus salmonis) found in salmon farms are rapidly killing off nearby wild salmon, according to researchers from the University of Alberta, Dalhousie University and the Salmon Coast Field Station in Echo Bay, B.C. Infection levels in wild juvenile salmon near the farms were 73 times higher than normal.
The researchers predict that unless fish farms change their location or procedures, wild pink salmon numbers will drop 99% within eight years. The study will be published in today's issue of the journal Science.
[CBC News | University of Alberta | Science Daily]

Canadian enters Transatlantic Maxi Yacht Rolex Cup

2007-11-18T16:34:00.000-06:00

The Transatlantic Maxi Yacht Rolex Cup has a Canadian entry - VALKYRIE, a Swan 78 owned and skippered by Will Apold. On November 26, 18-metre yachts from seven nations – Barbados, Canada, Germany, Great Britain, Italy, Monaco and Norway - will race from Santa Cruz de Tenerife (Spain) to St. Maarten. Satellite tracking systems will monitor each yacht’s progress - view it at www.yccs.it. [International Maxi Association]

Canadian to enter Atlantic Rowing Race

2007-11-08T14:04:00.000-06:00

On Dec. 2, Paul Attalla, 36, from Fernie, B.C., will be the first Canadian to enter the Atlantic Rowing Race. He will attempt to row 5,500 kilometres (3400 mi) from the Canary Islands across the Atlantic Ocean to Antigua on a custom 24-foot boat "The Spirit of Fernie" - alone, with no motor or sails. He is one of only five solo entries (20 entrants are pairs and fours). The race, expected to take about 100 days, is known as one of the toughest endurance tests in the world. [www.solotheatlantic.com]

Canadian Scullers win Singles Titles

2007-10-27T18:13:00.000-05:00

Malcolm Howard and Darcy Marquardt won the men’s and women’s singles championship at the 43rd Head of the Charles Regatta in Boston, Massachusetts. Darcy Marquardt is well known for her speed in the women’s pair. In women’s eight, the United States bested Canada's national team boat stroked by Buffy Williams by 13 seconds in perfect weather. The United States also won the men’s eight. [Results]

Nova Scotia win race in leg 2 of Clipper 07-08 Yacht Race

2007-10-26T13:10:00.000-05:00

The Nova Scotia team, led by skipper Rob McInally crossed the line first in Race 3 in the second leg of the Clipper 07-08 Round the World Yacht Race . The Canadian win along the Brazil coast gives them 3rd place. Leg 1 included a 25-day race from France to Brazil. Ten boats are currently racing to South Africa, expected to arrive Nov. 17. The 7th and final leg stops in Halifax July 2008 en route from Jamaica, to New York, Ireland, and England. [News | Live coverage | Canadian Boat Shows & Events]

Canadian Dragon boat team win 23 Gold

2007-10-05T10:11:00.000-05:00

Canadian Dragon Boat teams have returned from the 8th world Dragon Boat Racing Championship (IDBF) in Australia with 23 out of 38 gold medals, and topped the medal totals. Canadian teams won 5 of 7 gold in the Premier Open Championships against 8 other countries, 16 gold out of 19 in the Senior & Grand Dragons IDBF Championships against Australia, Germany and the United States. The Junior Dragon Boat team won 2 golds. They were impressed by the sportmanship shown - the German team waved Canadian flags and Australian children put maple leaf tattoos on their foreheads. Canada had top medal totals in the three categories. Also, The IDBF has awarded Honorary membership to Paul Henderson of Canada for outstanding service to Dragon Boat sport. [International Dragon Boat Federation | World Dragon Boat Racing Championship 2007]

Canadian Men win World Rowing Title

2007-10-03T17:26:00.000-05:00

The Canadian men's eight rowing team won the gold medal at the FISA World Championships in Munich, Germany on September 4. The members are Kyle Hamilton (Richmond, BC), Adam Kreek (London, ON), Dominic Seiterle (Victoria, BC), Malcolm Howard (Victoria, BC), Jake Wetzel (Saskatoon, Sask.), Byrnes (Toronto, ON), Ben Rutledge (Cranbrook, BC), Kevin Light (Sidney, BC), and coxswain Brian Price (Belleville, ON).
The Canadian lightweight men's four did qualify for the Olympics, by finishing fourth: Liam Parsons (Thunder Bay, ON), Mike Lewis (Victoria, BC), Jon Beare (Toronto, ON), and Iain Brambell (Victoria, BC). The women's quad of Anna-Marie de Zwager (Victoria, BC) Krista Guloien (Port Moody, BC), Janine Hanson (Winnipeg, MB) and Rachelle de Jong (Regina, SK) was fifth overall with a time was 6:40.37 and qualified a spot in the Olympics.

Canada picked up four medals - men's eight, lightweight women's single (bronze), coxed pair (bronzed) and the adaptive mixed coxed four (bronze), and qualified five boats for the Olympics at this regatta.

Great Lakes at Record Low Water Levels

2007-09-24T14:28:00.000-05:00

In August, Lake Superior, the largest of the five Great Lakes, set a record for low water levels over the last century, and is heading for a record in September. Water flow out of the lake is also down 30% over averages. Lakes Michigan and Huron are at the level of Chart Datum, below their all-time average levels for this time of year. Lakes St. Clair, Erie and Ontario are below their all-time average levels for this time of year, but above Datum. The water level at Montreal Harbour is below average for this time of year and below Datum. (Kingston, Ontario levels are the lowest we've recorded in our log in 21 years - and still dropping.)

The Georgian Bay Association is advancing its 2005 theory that excessive dredging near Sarnia and gravel mining many years ago have been the equivalent of pulling a drain plug, now causing loss of 10 billion litres a day, three times more than previously thought.

The five Great Lakes form the world's largest interconnected body of fresh water, containing one-fifth of all the fresh water on Earth. 99% of the lake waters are considered a legacy of the last ice age. Only about 1% is replenished each year through precipitation, which must offset evaporation and water flowing through the St. Lawrence River into the Atlantic Ocean.
[ theGlobeAndMail.com | ToledoBlade.com | Water Level links ]

Proposed Federal Regulations to Restrict Boating

2007-09-03T15:56:00.000-05:00

Transport Canada has proposed new Vessel Operation Restriction Regulations following the revised Canada Shipping Act, 2001 (CSA 2001), which came into effect July 1. Minister of Transport Lawrence Cannon said, "The new restrictions included in the proposed regulations will maintain the safety of navigation, both commercial and recreational, by restricting the type or speed of vessels that may use the various waterways." The proposed regulations would restrict specified boating areas, restrict mode of propulsion, limit maximum engine power or speed, prohibit recreational towing and water-skiing, and specify areas requiring permits for on-water events.

The proposal was published in the Canada Gazette, Part I, August 18. You must comment within 30 days. Transport Canada will publish the final regulations in the Canada Gazette, Part II, at which time they will come into effect. More information: Canadian Marine Advisory Council: cmac-ccmc.gc.ca

Pleasure Craft Operator Card changes

2007-08-04T19:51:00.000-05:00

Transport Canada is moving to restore credibility to the Pleasure Craft Operator Card (PCOC) program by tightening up testing standards requiring boat operators to prove competency to operate a boat. The program has been plagued by problems, with reports of various abuses. Currently, "approved trainers" charge fees to take a multiple-choice exam of 36 questions (on 149 key learning points) and provide the government card if you pass. Changes promised include more auditing, new rules for exams, a national registry of card holders, and possibly a tougher exam.

All boat operators in Canada require the card is by the fall of 2009. About two million of Canada's estimated seven million boaters already carry the card that is supposed to certify them as safe, knowledgeable mariners. The card is good for life. [Globe and Mail 07Aug4 | PCOC information]

Another World Cup rowing gold for Canada

2007-07-29T15:22:00.000-05:00

The Canadian men's heavyweight eight (M8) won gold at a World Cup III rowing event in Lucerne, Switzerland, with a decisive victory over the world champion German team. Team members Brian Price, Andrew Byrnes, Kyle Hamilton, Adam Kreek, Dominic Seiterle, Malcolm Howard, Jake Wetzel, Ben Rutledge and Kevin Light had also won gold at Henley Royal Regatta in England. The lightweight women's double team, Tracy Cameron (Shubenacadie, NS), and Lindsay Jennerich (Victoria BC), claimed silver, with other top-level placings. [thestar.com Jul15/07]

At the Pan American Games in Rio de Janeiro, Canadians have excelled on the water. At the rowing regatta, Nathalie Maurer, Zoe Hoskins, Peggy Hyslop and Cristin McCarty of Canada won the gold medal in women's Quadruple Sculls rowing. Hoskins and Maurer also won silver in women’s pairs. The lightweight men's four, Andrew Borden, John Haver, Adam Reynolds, and Paul Amesbury, also took gold. In canoe/kayak competitions, Canadians won 7 medals. Kayaker Jill D'Alessio won gold in the women's K-1 500-metres. Kia Byers and Marie-Christine Schmidt won gold in the women's K-2 500. Angus Mortimer won gold in K-1 1,000. Silver for men's K-4 in 1,000 metres. Bronze for Benjamin Russell in men's C-1 1,000 metres and women's K-4 crew in the 500 metres. [canada.com Jul19/07 | 570news.com]

Rideau Canal named "World Heritage Site"

2007-07-28T17:13:00.001-05:00

The United Nations declared the "monumental" Rideau Canal a world heritage site on its 175th anniversary this year, recognizing it for it's place in Canada'a history, its amazing engineering feats, as well its beauty and importance to the area's development. The oldest continuously operating canal in North America is a series of rivers and lakes connected by man-made canals and locks, which passes through the rock, forest, farms, and towns from Ottawa to Kingston, Ontario - truly a cruiser's dream. [Boating in Canada: Rideau Waterway]

World Record by Human Powered Boat

2007-07-26T23:44:00.000-05:00

Canadian Greg Kolodziejzyk set a new world record by pedaling his human-powered pedal boat 107.9 miles in 24 hours. His KidPower program encourages kids to live a healthier lifestyle by combining active living and healthy eating with achieving one's dreams and goals. In August 2006, Kolodziejzyk broke the human-powered world distance record by cycling 650 miles in 24 hours. Next he hopes to achieve a trans-Atlantic crossing by human-powered boat. (PrWeb News | PedalTheOcean.com | AdventuresOfGreg.com)

Lake Winnipeg Algae Toxic if Inhaled

2007-07-26T22:37:00.000-05:00

Inhaling airborne blue-green algae, found in Lake Winnipeg, lakes in southern and central Manitoba, and dozens of lakes in Quebec, is toxic and can cause potentially serious health effects according to a recent study. The green film, also known as cyanobacteria, can become airborne when swimmers splash around in the water, and inhaling or swallowing the algae is linked to problems ranging from vomiting and fever to liver or brain damage and, in extreme cases, death. (CBC.CA Jul20/07 | Jul29/07)

Canadian men win at Henley Royal Regatta

2007-07-12T12:47:00.000-05:00

The Canadian men's eight, rowing as Shawnigan Lake & Victoria City rowing clubs, finished the British race course in 6.24 to take the M8 and Grand Challenge Cup. Brian Price is Canada's coxswain and a three-time Grand Challenge Cup winner. The team is getting ready for the Lucerne World Cup Race July 13-15 in Switzerland, where they will face the top eights in the world. [thestar.com 8Jul/07]

Bass Tournament moves into Canadian Waters

2007-06-27T09:29:00.000-05:00

The world's best bass pros at the Chevy Open in Detroit will be allowed to fish in Canadian waters from July 12-15 to compete for $1.5 million in prizes - most will head for Lake Erie and Lake St. Clair. Last October, the U.S. had banned transport of live fish across borders to prevent the spread of viral hemorrhagic septicemia (VHS virus), but now will allow "catch and release" fishing in waters that cross state and international boundaries. Standard procedures for traveling anglers to prevent spreading this horrible disease include thorough cleaning of trailer and boat (including live wells) with a chlorine and water solution. About VHS virus: Wikipedia.org | Fisheries & Oceans Canada | NOAA Fact Sheet

U.S. border crossing changes postponed

2007-06-25T21:51:00.000-05:00

Canadians and Americans entering the United States by car or boat won’t need a passport until at least the summer of 2008, U.S. security officials said June 20. With both countries struggling with an avalanche of passport applications, driver’s licences and birth certificates will be accepted at the U.S. border after the original January 2008 date set for requiring passports for land and sea entries to the United States. The House of Representatives has already passed a measure forcing Homeland Security Secretary Michael Chertoff to wait until mid-2009 at land and sea crossings. (Rules for entering Canada remain the same.)

NEXUS border program expanded

2007-06-03T13:17:00.000-05:00

The NEXUS program is now the best way to frequently cross borders by recreational boat - as well as by car and plane. NEXUS is a joint program of Canada Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) and U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) that facilitates fast, secure entry into either country for pre-approved, low-risk travellers. Since the NEXUS Air, Highway and Marine programs were combined in December, Canadians can cross the border at participating locations by car, using special lanes, at airports, using self-serve kiosks, and by boat, reporting by phone from 30 minutes to 4 hours prior to expected arrival. All on board must have NEXUS cards in order for the boat to take advantage of NEXUS reporting procedures. [General information about Entering the U.S. by boat]

When entering Canada at a designated Canadian NEXUS sites, the boat master must call the NEXUS Telephone Reporting Centre (TRC) at 1-866-996-3987 (or other centre). If non-NEXUS members are on board, you must arrive at a TRC site and immediately call CBSA at 1-888-226-7277. Only the boat master may leave the boat until authorization is given by the CBSA. [Canadian NEXUS Program (CBSA)]

When entering the U.S., the boat master must arrive at a “Physical Report Site” and call the local CBP reporting telephone number. If a border official is not at the landing site, you may proceed to your intended destination. If non-NEXUS members are on board, follow the same procedure. [U.S. NEXUS Program (CBP)]

Federal regulation prohibits boat sewage discharge

2007-05-09T16:59:00.000-05:00

The federal government released new regulations on May 8 against marine pollution that will affect all boats and ships in Canada. Sewage dumping will be prohibited, and all boats with a toilet will require an approved sewage sanitation device or holding tank. Dumping waste of any kind (garbage, oily bilge water) could result in a penalty. The new regulation gives authorities greater enforcement powers. Currently, many provinces have no regulations against sewage discharge. Dozens of cruise ships travel the B.C. coast every summer and the government has not charged any under previous regulations. (The Ottawa Citizen May 9)

Famous Boat restored in Campbell River

2007-04-23T15:30:00.000-05:00

A 16-metre fish boat, the BP 45, is the centrepiece of Campbell River, B.C.'s new Maritime Heritage Centre. Built in 1927 by Burrard Shipyards in North Vancouver as part of a fleet of seiners owned by BC Packers, the BCP 45 is more famous for the photo taken in the 1958 Sockeye season north of Campbell River. This photo appeared on the Canadian five dollar bill from 1972 to 1986. After 68 years as a salmon seiner, troller, gillneter, beam trawler and tow-off for the winter herring, the BCP 45 was retired in 1996, and donated to the BC Maritime Museum in Vancouver. In 2002, it returned home to be restored. ( Victoria Times Colonist 07Mar25 | Maritime Heritage Centre)

Great Lakes Video Contest

2007-04-14T15:34:00.000-05:00

The International Joint Commission (IJC) has created a Keep the Great Lakes Great Video Contest for its Great Lakes Biennial Meeting June 6, 2007. Post a short video by May 23, 2007 about why you love the Great Lakes, or what people and governments should be doing to keep them great. Prizes will be awarded for: most creative, most inspirational, most informative, most relevant to Great Lakes Restoration, and best message expressed with humour. A montage created from entries will be posted on www.ijc.org.

Submit Video: youtube.com/group/greatlakesvideoaward
Information: ijc.org/rel/2007biennial/meeting_information.php

Fisheries takes over e-Charts

2007-03-08T10:19:00.000-06:00

After March 30, 2007, CHS will be responsible for all Canadian digital charts and data. The Canadian Hydrographic Service (CHS) announced that the Department of Fisheries and Oceans (DFO) will buy back its rights for the distribution of Canadian electronic charts from Nautical Data International (NDI). (charts.gc.ca | digitalocean.ca | digitalocean.ca Q/A)

Solar "Loon" goes Cruising

2007-03-08T08:33:00.000-06:00

The Loon (2005), the world's first commercially available solar-powered recreational boat, developed Monte Gisborne, is finally going mainstream. With two new partners, the Tamarack Lake Electric Boat Co. is building a redesigned Loon and a larger houseboat in a new manufacturing facility near Kirkfield Ontario. The first 6.7 metre (22 ft.) Loon should be ready by summer. The company is also looking at tourism and ferry boat markets in several countries.

In 2005, the Gisbornes took a solar-powered family boating vacation on the Trent Severn Waterway "without burning a single drop of oil." Travelling 40 kilometres each day, they used 50 cents worth of electricity, easily supplied by the sun. (A similar trip by cruiser could cost hundreds of dollars.) In 2006, the Loon made a similar cruise on the Rideau Waterway. The Loon's six solar panels produce 720 watts of power, 800 watts with a supercharger and carries eight, six-volt batteries. The batteries are charged from the sun or by "plug-ins".
Gisborne's first electric car, the ElectriFly, has competed at the American Tour de Sol five times, winning once. (theStar.com | Tamarack Lake Electric Boat Co.)

Canadian leads "pirates" against Whalers

2007-02-18T15:52:00.000-06:00

Protest ships Farley Mowat and the Robert Hunter have been harrassing Japanese whalers in the Ross Sea, south of New Zealand. Both vessels belong to the Sea Shepherd Conservation Society, led by Canadian activist Paul Watson. Farley Mowat crew attacked a whaling ship with butyric acid (not permanently damaging), hitting two in the face -- after the whalers had rescued two of Farley Mowat's crewmembers from an iceberg. Similarly, a week ago, protestors in dinghies confronted the Japanese whaler Nisshin Maru, and one Zodiac got lost. The Japanese whalers answered the distress call, helping with a grid search, and the two men were rescued. Crewmembers from the Farley Mowat resumed their antics, tossing butyric acid and a smoke bomb onto the Nisshin Maru's deck.

Officially, the Farley Mowat is a pirate ship since Transport Canada stripped its Canadian registration and it lost its Belize registration. Japan was to host a meeting of the International Whaling Commission, in an attempt to lift the international moratorium on commercial whaling. Twenty-six nations said they would boycott the meeting. Protesters in Toronto said in agreement, "Arrrrgh!" (The Toronto Star | Farley Mowat | Sea Shepherd Society)

IJC report on Great Lakes Water Quality

2007-02-14T16:24:00.000-06:00

The International Joint Commission (IJC) has issued its Thirteenth Biennial Report on Great Lakes Water Quality. They recommend that the governments of Canada and the United States create and apply an uncommonly strong Accountability Framework for Great Lakes restoration and protection under the Great Lakes Water Quality Agreement.
Last October, the International Joint Commission of Canada and the United States recommended that both governments update the current Great Lakes Water Quality Agreement with goals, timelines, performance measures, and provisions for monitoring and reporting for greater accountability when it comes to the cleanup of the waters of the Great Lakes. (www.ijc.org)

Man tries to enter U.S. illegally - in a raft

2007-02-12T16:33:00.000-06:00

Wayne Kingwell, 40, of Fort Erie, Ontario, was arrested on the Niagara River on Feb. 5 attempting to reach Buffalo, N.Y. in a rubber raft. He wanted to make a credit card payment at a local bank, and was carrying more than $4,000 in cash. Kingwell said he had crossed the river by boat numerous times before. In one of the coldest days of the year, he got hung up in ice, and State troupers pulled him to shore about five miles south of Niagara Falls. After being questioned to determine his competency, Kingwell was released into the custody of the Department of Homeland Security to be deported. (www.poststar.com)

Fund created for U.S. Sailor stabbed in Halifax

2007-01-28T18:58:00.000-06:00

Nova Scotians have respond tremendously, donating more than $34,000 for the family of Petty Officer 1st Class Damon Crooks, the American sailor from the USS Doyle stabbed to death in Halifax while trying to break up a fight. The Chronicle Herald opened up the Damon Crooks Family Fund to help his fiancee Ms. Washington and her baby in Jacksonville, Fla. (atlanticcanadalive.com)

NEXUS Program for Travel to the U.S.A.

2007-01-15T17:12:00.000-06:00

NEXUS trusted traveler programs for air, marine and highway are now a single program. Canadians who get a NEXUS card ($80 good for 5 years) can cross the border more easily. Applicants must submit to a background check, be interviewed by U.S. Customs and Border Protection officers, have their iris photographed, and be fingerprinted. A NEXUS membership can be used instead of a passport for travel to the U.S. after January 23, 2007.

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B.C. Smuggler Set Free --Twice

2007-01-15T10:45:00.000-06:00

Twice, police have seized vessels owned by Phil Stirling, carrying million of dollars worth of illicit drugs headed for the Canada. Both times, Phil Stirling and his crew were set free.

In 2001, American authorities seized the drug-laden Western Wind, owned by Phil Stirling, in the Strait of Juan de Fuca. They handed Stirling and his three crew over to Canadian authorities - B.C. police set them free. (Phil Stirling had a prison record on cocaine conspiracy-related charges.)

Last May, the RCMP seized the MV Bakur, a fishing vessel registered to Phil Stirling bound for B.C. They arrested Stirling and four men after finding $6.5 million worth of marijuana. The Crown entered stays of proceedings on all charges and set them free - again. Be careful sailing out there...
[The Vancouver Sun]

New Fish and Bait Viruses in Ontario

2007-01-10T10:24:00.000-06:00

A new virulent fish virus, viral hemorrhagic septicemia, has been found in fish in the lower Great Lakes - Lake St. Clair, Lake Erie, Niagara River, Lake Ontario and the St. Lawrence River. This virus has been linked to die-offs of four fish species so far, and could decimate fish if allowed to spread. The U.S. banned the import of 37 live fish species - including rainbow trout, chinook and coho salmon - from Ontario and Quebec, and also banned movement of fish between eight states. The Ontario government is putting restrictions on transport of live bait from the Great Lakes area to stop the virus from spreading north and west. (cbc.ca)

Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources will prohibit the sale of crayfish and frogs as bait sometime in 2007. Testing of bait-shop frogs found a 100% infection rate of ranavirus, which research has found can spread to fish. (fishontario.com)

2006 Nova Scotia Sailor of the Year dies

2007-01-02T18:11:00.000-06:00

Peter Brock, 73 - Sailor, author, artist, musician whose journey through the Northwest Passage in his 14-metre (42') sailboat led him to be named 2006 Nova Scotia Sailor of the Year. In December, the sailing community was saddened to learn he was killed by a truck blinded by the sun. Read Peter's "thank you" message to the NSYA.

Canadian woman falls overboard in Atlantic

2006-12-09T20:09:00.000-06:00

Dec/06: Laura Gainey, 25, was swept over the side of the Picton Castle Friday, about 760 km. off Cape Cod, Mass. Gainey, daughter of Montreal Canadiens' general manager and former NHL player Bob Gainey, was not wearing a life-jacket.

Daniel Moreland, senior captain of ship, said the crew continued the search through the night along with a Canadian Coast Guard C-130 aircraft, and a merchant marine tanker. The Picton Castle, a sail training ship based in Lunenburg, Nova Scotia, was caught in a gale enroute to the Caribbean. The second of its four voyages around the world was chronicled in a TV series “Tall Ship Chronicles”, produced in Canada in 2001/02. [CBC.ca | picton-castle.com]

Sewage problem in Great Lakes

2006-11-29T16:22:00.000-06:00

Nov/06: Ontario and American cities around the Great Lakes are failing to keep sewage out of the Great Lakes, suggests a study by the Sierra Legal Defence Fund, a Canadian environmental group. The Great Lakes, one of the world's most important freshwater ecosystems, provides drinking water for millions. Windsor had the worst record on the Canadian side. Sudbury, Kingston, Hamilton, Sarnia, Toronto and the Niagara Region rated below-average. Kitchener-Waterloo, York and Durham regions refused to participate. The main culprit for Canadian cities was the frequency of sewer overflows due to antiquated systems.
(CBC story)