Are passenger vessels inspected for safety by the government?
Passenger vessels are inspected by a Transport Canada Marine Safety inspector. Larger vessels – such as those carrying more than 12 passengers – are inspected annually. A Small Vessel Monitoring and Inspection Program is in place for smaller vessels carrying up to 12 passengers. These vessels are inspected for the first time by a Transport Canada Marine Safety inspector and are then self-inspected by the owner or operator of the vessel. Spot checks may be carried out by a Transport Canada inspector at any time. Before boarding a tour boat, ask to see the valid inspection certificate and look for the decal that indicates the boat has received this certificate.
