Drinking and Boating Laws in Canada

In Canada boat passengers may legally consume alcohol if their boat is:

1. Equipped with a permanent toilet, cooking facilities, and sleeping area; and
2. Anchored or docked (not in motion)

Boating while impaired is an offence under the Criminal Code of Canada.

Operators with more than eighty (80) milligrams of alcohol per One Hundred (100) millilitres of blood are liable.

What are the penalties for drinking and boating in Canada?

• 1^st offence: at least One Thousand ($1,000) fine
• 2^nd offence: at least Thirty (30) days of imprisonment
• 3^rd offence: at least One Hundred Twenty (120) days of imprisonment

The maximum sentence may vary depending on provincial statutes.

Check with the appropriate provincial authorities (OPP for Ontario, SQ for Quebec, RCMP for all other provinces and territories) for carriage restrictions.

As the designated boat operator, make sure your boat complies with these regulations. Prior to opening any alcoholic beverages, it is crucial that you remain sober to guarantee the safety of all passengers.