SVOP: Small Vessel Operator Proficiency Training Course

The Small Vessel Operator Proficiency Certificate is required to operate the following small commercial vessels:

• Passenger-carrying vessels that carry less than 12 passengers, are 5 gross tons or less, and operate in Near Coastal 2 or Sheltered waters.

• Work boats such as water taxis, cargo boats, sport-fishing boats, charter boats, crew boats, and whale-watching boats that are 5 gross tons or less and operate in Near Coast 2 and Sheltered Waters.

• Commercial fishing vessels that are 15 gross tons or less and operate in Near Coastal 2 and Sheltered Waters.

This course is intended to provide course participants with:

• a basic understanding of the hazards associated with the marine environment and their own vessel,

• the prevention of shipboard incidents,

• the knowledge and skills necessary to safely operate a small non-pleasure vessel in near coastal and sheltered waters, and

• under normal operating conditions, including darkness and restricted visibility.

This is a Transport Canada approved course.