Vessel Name Display Requirements — Transport Canada
Canada Shipping Act 2001 · Federal — Canada
§The Law
Canada Shipping Act 2001 — Canada Shipping Act 2001
“Registered vessels generally display the vessel name on the stern and on each bow, in clearly visible characters.”
View official regulation text✓Plain English
If your boat is registered (not just licensed), it must show the vessel name. Licenced pleasure crafts are not required to show a name.
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Specific Requirements
Vessel name on stern (registered vessels)
Name on bow optional for licensed craft
Characters should be clearly visible
Port of registry below name on stern
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📚Sources & Authority
Every claim on this page is backed by official government legislation and verified industry sources. Last verified: March 2026.
🏛 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.
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Shop Marine Registration NumbersOr call (289) 228-7021Regulation Quick Facts
- Regulation
- Canada Shipping Act 2001
- Jurisdiction
- 🇨🇦 Federal — Canada
- Category
- Marine & Boating Law
What if Canada Shipping Act 2001 changes next year?
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Compliance Certificate
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