Boat Name Lettering Rules — Canadian Law
Canada Shipping Act 2001 · Federal — Canada
§Source summary
Canada Shipping Act 2001 — Canada Shipping Act 2001
Registered vessels generally display the vessel name in clearly visible characters. While no minimum size is mandated for names, they should be legible.
Read official source✓Plain English
Your boat name should be visible on the stern and bow. There is no strict size rule for names (unlike PCL numbers), but they should be readable.
Ready to Order?
Compare the product options, current CAD price and fulfilment terms before ordering.
Checks before ordering
Name on stern required for registered vessels
Name on bow recommended
Legible size — typically 6-10cm for aesthetics
Any colour that contrasts with hull
Order Proofed Markings
Choose the offer that matches your marking job, then confirm the current variant price and production details on its product page.
Boat Registration Numbers — PCL Decals
Marine Registration Complete Kit
Custom Boat Name Lettering
📚Sources & Authority
Use the linked primary sources to confirm the current conditions for your specific asset or move. This page is a plain-language guide, not an approval or permit.
🏛 Official Government Sources
Pleasure Craft Licensing — Transport Canada
Transport Canada · March 2026
Official Transport Canada page for Pleasure Craft Licensing. Covers who needs a PCL, how to apply, number display requirements, and renewal.
Small Vessel Regulations — SOR/2010-91
Justice Laws Canada · March 2026
The Small Vessel Regulations define marking requirements for pleasure craft including PCL number size (75mm minimum), placement (both sides of bow), and colour contrast.
Canada Shipping Act, 2001
Justice Laws Canada · March 2026
The Canada Shipping Act is the federal legislation governing all vessel registration, safety, and compliance in Canadian waters.
🏢 Industry Organizations
All sources are official government publications or recognized industry authorities. Links verified March 2026. If you find a broken link, let us know.
Compare the available product
Choose a Marine & Boating Law marking
Check the current options, material and delivery terms on the product page.
Shop Marine Registration NumbersOr call (289) 228-7021Regulation Quick Facts
- Regulation
- Canada Shipping Act 2001
- Jurisdiction
- 🇨🇦 Federal — Canada
- Category
- Marine & Boating Law
Source library
Confirm the current rule before relying on a marking
Our guides are a starting point for locating government sources connected to Canada Shipping Act 2001 markings. Requirements can depend on jurisdiction, vehicle or site details, and the date you act.
- Open the linked official source and check its current version.
- Confirm the rule applies to your exact vehicle, vessel, property, or operation.
- Verify wording, dimensions, placement, and effective dates before ordering.