Manitoba is a Canadian prairie province best known by boaters for its 100,000-plus lakes and its continental climate that ensures perfect boating weather in the summertime. Some call it the non-coastal boater’s paradise, and it is tough to argue with that claim. Boaters come from all over North America and the world to boat on Lake Winnipeg, Lake Manitoba and Lake Winnipegosis. Lake Winnipeg, which is one of the largest freshwater lakes in the entire world, is a particularly popular destination for vacationers. People can live on the lake, boating, camping, hiking and a host of other outdoor activities.
Manitoba integrates most of their lakes into the park system quite well, so you can come as is and have a great experience. However, in order to get the most out of the trip, you will want to rent a boat or bring one with you. In order to do that, you are going to need a boating license. The charters will not let you rent without it, and if the authorities catch you, you will be paying some hefty fines. The good news is that at all of the major lakes, such as those mentioned above, you can simply show up, take the test and receive a temporary license within moments of passing. They even offer courses for inexperienced boaters, which last several hours and prepare you for the test.
You only pay for your Boating License Exam once. If you don’t pass, you can try the exam again at no additional charge.
ASM Safe Safe Boating encourages boaters in all provinces to take a Transport Canada Accredited course to obtain the Canadian Boating License (officially known as a Pleasure Craft Operator Card). ASM Safe Boating, through its partnership with BoaterExam.com, offers Transport Canada accredited courses and certification for the Canadian Pleasure Craft Operator Card.
If you operate a boat, you have to have a boater license. It’s the law. Without a Pleasure Craft Operator Card, or boat operators license, you’re automatically subject to a $250 fine.
