The Lifesaving Society’s Boat Operator Accredited Training™ (BOAT) program is accredited by the Canadian Coast Guard. The BOAT course teaches you all the safe boating knowledge you need to earn the Pleasure Craft Operator Card. BOAT content focuses on:

Obligations and responsibilities of a boat operator including those imposed by law and regulations including the "rules of the road".

How to respond in a boating emergency including person overboard, breakdowns, capsizing, swamping, sinking and grounding.

Knowledge of the operation of pleasure craft including required safety equipment, loading limits, buoys, beacons and signs, weather, fueling procedures.

The BOAT course is recommended for those with little or no boating experience or training. The course consists of 8 hours of classroom education. No water is required. Pleasure Craft Operator certification cards are issued to those who pass the written examination.

You can take the BOAT course from your local municipal recreation department, Y, or private instruction companies. Some schools and summer camps also offer the BOAT program. 

Home study and exam-only option