We don’t have to tell you twice that Nova Scotia has something for everyone, with over 1,000 lakes and 7,000 kilometres of magnificent coastline. But before you set sail this summer, check out our guide to boating in the province.
Q: Where can I go boating in Nova Scotia?
There are so many prime boating destinations across this province! If you’re looking for some travel inspiration, Discover Boating is an excellent resource for finding new waterways, rivers and lakes in Nova Scotia, or check out our top locations to anchor and eat. Keep in mind that certain lakes that are part of provincial or national parks may not permit powered boating. Make sure you check the rules before heading out on the water!
Q: Do I need to wear a lifejacket?
By law you are required to have an appropriately sized, Canada approved lifejacket for each person on board your boat. It’s not legally required to wear it but there is no reason not to – and it can save your life!
Q: Where are the best places to fish in Nova Scotia?
Nova Scotia, like much of Canada, is an angler’s paradise. Small-mouth bass, white and yellow perch, chain pickerel and mackerel are very popular in Nova Scotia waters. Coming into Fall, Nova Scotia becomes a prime province for anglers looking to catch trout and the king sport-fish, Atlantic Salmon.
Q: Can I go boating with my driver’s license?
You don’t need a driver license to boat in Nova Scotia, but you do need a boating license. The need for a boating license to operate a motorized vessel on Nova Scotia waters came into effect in 2009, and requires operators to carry proof of competency on board, otherwise known as a Pleasure Craft Operator Card. To get your PCOC, take a Transport Canada approved boating safety course.
Q: Do I need boat insurance?
Boat insurance is not legally required for boaters in Nova Scotia, but it is highly recommended, especially if the value of your boat exceeds $5,000. For more information on insuring your boat in Nova Scotia, click here.
Q: Do I need a boat licence in Nova Scotia?
An educated boater is a safe boater – which is why a valid Pleasure Craft Operator Card, commonly known as a boating license, is required in all Canadian provinces including Nova Scotia, when operating motorized vessels. Boaters need to be able to supply a boating license regardless of their age, the size of their boat or engine horsepower. It’s the law. Boat operators in Nova Scotia caught without their card face a minimum $250 fine.
Q: What’s the difference between licensing a boat and getting my boating license?
Licensing your boat, often referred to as vessel licensing or registration, refers to the unique ID number that must be displayed on your boat, much like the registration plate on a car. You only need to license your boat if it meets certain criteria, however this is not to be confused with your personal boat license – or Pleasure Craft Operator Card (PCOC). Every driver of a motorized boat must carry a valid PCOC on board at all times in order to avoid getting fined, and to stay safe on the water!
Q: How long does it take to get my Nova Scotia boat licence?
It takes a minimum of 3-5 hours to complete the boating license course from any Transport Canada approved provider. The Pleasure Craft Operator Card exam is available online and can be completed in your own time. When you pass the test, you will receive your Pleasure Craft Operator Card (PCOC) as proof of competency to operate a motorized boat on all Canadian waterways.
Q: What if I don’t pass the boating license exam?
Boating should be carefree – so do not panic if you don’t pass! One of the great things about getting your boating license is that you can re-take the test free of charge until you successfully complete the course. After passing your exam, you will receive a temporary boating license – allowing you to get out on the water immediately!
Q: What age do I have to be to drive a boat in Nova Scotia?
There is no minimum age to drive a boat or obtain your Pleasure Craft Operator Card (PCOC) in Nova Scotia, but there are supervision requirements and horsepower restrictions for young boaters. Click here to learn more about the age restrictions for various types of vehicles on the water.
Q: Do I need a licence to drive a jet-ski?
A boat license is legally required for all motorized vehicles on the water – and that includes jet-skis or any other personal watercraft! No matter what kind of vessel you’re captain of, make sure that you are carrying your Pleasure Craft Operator Card (PCOC) or boat license with you at all times.
Q: Where Is the Pleasure Craft Operator Card (PCOC) valid?
Your boating license or PCOC is valid in each province of Canada, including Nova Scotia, Saskatchewan, Ontario, Québec, Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, Manitoba, Prince Edward Island, Alberta and Newfoundland and Labrador.
Q: What is the fine for operating without your card?
Not having your boating license on board with you while driving a motorized boat in Nova Scotia will result in a fine of $250, excluding administrative charges. Click here to learn more about boating fines in Nova Scotia.
Q: Who enforces these laws?
The boating laws and regulations will be enforced by peace officers, the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP), provincial and municipal police forces and other local authorities. Officers may inspect your boat and monitor your activities at any time to ensure that you are in compliance with boating laws. You can expect to see these officers on the lakes and rivers throughout the province, so make sure the captain of your boat is carrying their Pleasure Craft Operator Card, as well as proof of age, with them at all times – no excuses.
Sign up for your boating licence and get out on the water today! If you have a question about boating in Nova Scotia, get in touch!