4 COMMUNITIES. 1 REGION

From August 30 to September 2, Windsor-Essex-Pelee Island proudly hosts the Coastal Trails Sails to See Festival. This can’t-miss event will be the final stop of the Pan Provincial TALL SHIPS® 1812 Tour commemorating the Battle of Lake Erie. This is your chance to see and board numerous majestic tall ships as they drop anchor at five ports throughout our region. Feel history come to life as you explore these spellbinding vessels up close and firsthand. You definitely don’t want to miss these ships!

The TALL SHIPS® 1812 Tour, presented by Redpath Sugar, will sail to 15 Ontario ports this summer to commemorate the bicentennial of the War of 1812. This pan-­‐provincial tour, produced in partnership with the TALL SHIPS CHALLENGE® Great Lakes 2013 series, will feature tall ships from around the world. From June 14 to September 2, 2013, you can tour the decks of the majestic fleet of ships, participate in War of 1812 interactive experiences, enjoy live musical performances, kids programming and much more.

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Things to Consider when Owning your First Boat

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Now that you’ve finally decided to make your dream of owning a boat a reality, it is important to get to study and learn the laws and regulations of the port and area you are planning to use your boat. Another thing you need to consider is the boat insurance policy. Talk to your broker and get a Ontario Boat Insurance provider.

Before you head out to the water, research on the local rules concerning speed, collision, small vessel operations, safety procedures, and other factors related to boating. It is important to understand the Canadian marine system and navigation as well as how to use the charts, compasses, lights, signals among many others. These are things you can learn as you go along.

As a new boat owner, it is important to get your boat insured. Otherwise, you may end up regretting it in the end when you’re faced with the problem. Getting insured can help protect you and your asset from possible financial problems and risks.

You can request for a boat insurance quote Ontario provider to know more about the options, policies, costs, and other vital details. If you are considering the expenses, try looking at the bigger picture. Imagine yourself faced with a damaged vessel from an accident or a typhoon.

Throw in a lawsuit and other possibilities that will ultimately require you to spend more. Think of all the expenses these issues may incur. Once you get a grasp of this, you may realize that getting an insurance may be worthwhile after all.

Usually, homeowner’s policies do not include any coverage of marine risks. So you need to get separate boat insurance policy. Remember, you are not only protecting your boat but you are safeguarding yourself and your lifestyle as well.

Boating License

If you are planning on cruising your boat in the waters of Ontario, you need to know the licensing rules and standard laws. If you are operating a powered motor boat, you are required to have a boating license. This law is applicable to all provinces in Canada.

There are two steps in order to acquire a boating license. You can take an online course followed by a final exam by Transport Canada which you can also take online. The other option is to undergo a challenge exam where you can participate in the Transport Canada test during boat shows or events.

A boating license in Canada is also referred to a Pleasure Craft Operator Card, a certification required by the Canadian law. It requires a one-time application without the need for renewal. This card is applicable to provinces such as Ontario, Nova Scotia, British Columbia, Quebec, New Brunswick, Prince Edward, Manitoba, Alberta, Saskatchewan, and Newfoundland and Labrador.

Boating Membership

As a new boat owner, you can join the local Ontario boating association with members ranging from boat owners, dealers, companies and recreational boaters. They all share a common goal of promoting recreational boating in the Ontario.

Owning your first boat is indeed an exciting journey. Knowing the important factors will help you make the right decisions on how to manage your boat efficiently. To know more about your options, get in touch with a boat insurance quote Ontario provider.

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