Inshore Rescue Boat Stations Open for Boating Season Across Ontario

The Canadian Coast Guard announced that its Inshore Rescue Boat stations are now open on the Great Lakes, Georgian Bay, and St. Lawrence River for the summer boating season. According to a May 14, 2025, news release, these stations will operate until September 3, 2025.

These stations are intended to provide additional maritime search and rescue service during a period of increased recreational boating activity in Ontario. The stations are crewed by post-secondary students hired and trained by the Canadian Coast Guard.

According to the Coast Guard, Inshore Rescue Boat stations are located at Britt on Gereaux Island (Georgian Bay), Brebeuf Island (Georgian Bay), Hill Island (St. Lawrence River), Corunna (St. Clair River), Mitchell’s Bay (Lake St. Clair), and Long Point (Lake Erie).

Marine Communications and Traffic Services centres on shore provide safety communications for mariners. The Joint Rescue Coordination Centre in Trenton, Ontario, coordinates each search and rescue case, as stated by the Coast Guard.

The Coast Guard notes that waterways remain very cold at this time of year and take longer to warm than the air. Emergencies on the water can be reported 24 hours a day within Canada at 1-800-267-7270 or by using marine VHF radio on channel 16.

Transport Canada’s Safe Boating Guide is referenced in the release as a resource for preparing for the boating season.