Learn About Water Access

Boating Access

Canadians should have a right to access waterways to safely enjoy boating with their families. We are committed to sustainability to ensure that Canadians maintain access to waterways and can continue enjoying boating for many years to come.

Transport Canada is currently consulting on changes to the Vessel Operation Restriction Regulations (VORR) process under the Canada Shipping Act, 2001. Transport Canada proposes simplifying the process by allowing municipalities to submit new requests for regulations restricting recreational boating, which could be quickly implemented. This will lead to a patchwork of restrictive regulations across the country, impeding Canadians’ right to access waterways.

NMMA Canada, along with other organizations, has engaged with the Government regarding this proposal during their consultation period. We launched an advocacy website resulting in more than 600 recreational boating enthusiasts writing to Transport Canada with our top recommendations. We have also met with the Minister of Transport’s team to express our concerns and will continue making our case to decision-makers for Canadians’ rights to access waterways.