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Message From The Editor
This Year’s Boat Shows Are a Big Deal
 Both the Toronto and Vancouver boat shows begin next week and you want to be sure to allocate a lot of time to walk through. Why? There is a change in the wind that will make the 2026 shows an important watershed. Thanks to a range of new models, particularly from Europe, these shows will not be the same as previous years.
Plus – no more luxury tax. That means the total price on boats at the higher end will become more affordable. Great news.
Next, for all boaters in every bracket and taste, things are really getting a shakeup. At both shows you will get to take in brands that you have not seen until recently. READ MORE |
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John Morris
Online Editor
Canadian Boating Magazine
John@opmediagroup.ca
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Licence News
Transport Canada Now Charges $24 for Recreational Boat Licence
 As of Dec. 31, 2025, Transport Canada has made several updates to the Pleasure Craft Licence (PCL). Beginning this year pleasure craft licences must be renewed every five years – and current lifetime licences will be gradually replaced with PCLs that must be renewed every five years. Beginning in 2028 wind-powered pleasure craft over six metres in length will also be required to hold a PCL. READ MORE |
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Buyer Aware
Purchasing a New Boat
 There are two channels for buying a new boat - dealer inventory or ordering a boat to be built for you. If a dealer brings a boat to the boat show it is likely to be owned by the dealer and is being financed by the dealer. The dealer really wants you to buy that boat. Floor plan financing is expensive, and dealer margins are small, typically in the range of +/- 20%. READ MORE |
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Written in partnership with Anchor Gear Co.
A Legacy of Life on the Water
 The definition of a boater is not found in the type of vessel they own, but in the gravitational pull they feel toward the water. It is a lifestyle defined by shifting winds, granite shorelines, and the unique culture of freshwater navigation. Anchor Gear Co., based in Buckhorn, Ontario, operates as a tangible extension of this lifestyle. READ MORE |
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What's News? At Onboard we’re here for your news. Dock news? Cruise plans? Engine workshops? Awards presentations? Winter get togethers? Send a blurb, pictures, links. If it’s boating news we’re Onboard! Just let us know at John@opmediagroup.ca. |
Calendar Dates? Got some important dates coming up at your marina, club or organization. Let us know and we'll tell the country via the Onboard Datebook.
Just let us know at onboard@opmediagroup.ca.
Click Here to check out our new CBOB Calendar |
New Boats
Nimbus 365 Coupe – cruising boat for exploring
 There is no shortage of fun and exciting new boat designs hitting the market, but for the last few years these have been mainly outboard-powered day boats. Some are day cruisers; some are centre console fishing boats or designed for tow sports. A new live-aboard cabin boat has become a rare item these days. READ MORE |
News
One Year Later: Telegraph Cove Rebuilds for 2026
 Last year began under a cloud of smoke for residents of Telegraph Cove on northern Vancouver Island. Since the fire on December 31, 2024 the small boardwalk community has been hard at work to restore itself and replace the iconic, historic buildings lost in the blaze. READ MORE |
Show News
Beneteau Heads to TIBS
 As one of its five major global events, Beneteau confirms presence at the Toronto International Boat Show. For the first time, BENETEAU will be present as a constructor at the Toronto International Boat Show 2026, marking an important milestone for the brand in Canada. Alongside our dealer partners Maple Leaf Marinas and Boisvert... READ MORE |
Boating Smarts
CanBoat Boating Classes are Back in Session!
 It’s a new year and a new boating season will soon be here! That’s why many of our instructor-led Boating Classes, available both online and in-person, start early in the calendar year. These courses are designed by experienced boaters to help you develop the essential skills needed before setting out on the water. READ MORE |
Missed the latest issue of Canadian Boating? On the Boat?
Forgot your copy of CB at home?
Read the latest edition online! |
Ask Andrew
Below the waterline off-season checks – Part 2
 Last issue, in part 1 , we looked at the underwater portions of the hull, the boat’s trailer, cradle and stands. In this part, we’ll delve deeper into the other parts of the boat found below the water line: the underwater mechanical components, including: props, shafts, outdrives, and cathodic protection devices (anodes). Here’s a checklist of some of the areas that you should consider while they’re exposed this off-season. READ MORE |
CB Preview
Canadian Boating's January Issue is Loaded
 Welcome to 2026! It’s going to be a big year for all Canadian Boaters, and here at Canadian Boating we are extra excited to be celebrating our 50th anniversary! And what better way to enter this new chapter than to bring our readers one of the most innovate and exciting new developments in boating technology: the ENVGO NV1... READ MORE |
