Boat Theft in Canada: What to do if your boat is stolen
In Canada, boat theft is a significant concern, especially in areas with active boating communities like British Columbia, Ontario, and Quebec. The increasing value of boats and marine equipment makes them attractive targets for theft. Stolen boats are often sold in other regions, stripped for parts, or transported across borders. Boats are also stolen for joy rides or transportation and then abandoned. Once abandoned, significant damage can occur before a boat is recovered. Reporting a boat theft in a timely manner is key to recovery.
Boats of all kinds are targeted by thieves, and it only takes a few minutes to steal a boat. As reported in the Calgary Herald (https://calgaryherald.com/news/local-news/300000-boat-stolen-from-bow-crescent-within-minutes-monday-morning) a boat was stolen off a driveway in the Bowness neighbourhood around 5:30 am, even as a neighbour was stepping out for coffee. The brazen thief pulled up in a truck and drove off with the $300,000 boat. To date the boat has not been recovered.
How GPS can help prevent and locate stolen boats
Boat thefts in Canada are relatively low compared to auto thefts. However, stealing a boat is often easier than people expect. Boats are frequently left unsecured at docks, marinas, or even on trailers in driveways, making them prime targets. While securing your boat is important, tracking technology like GPS is the key to recovering a stolen vessel. By using GPS trackers, owners can monitor their boat’s movements in real-time and increase the chances of a quick recovery.
Boaters have several options to deter theft, such as using trailer locks or GPS tracking through services. However, professional thieves can bypass trailer locks quickly and often disable GPS trackers. Installing security cameras aimed at your vessel is a smart backup, providing valuable evidence for police if a theft occurs. Blink Outdoor offers a completely wireless solution security camera, two-year battery life, two-way audio, HD live view, and enhanced motion detection.
Real-time tracking
A GPS tracker installed on a boat can provide real-time location data. In the event of theft, boat owners can track the exact location of the stolen boat via smartphone apps or web interfaces, providing essential information to law enforcement. If a GPS is not within reach, at least install an air tag or similar item into your boat and set up notifications if the boat moves.
Geofencing
Many modern GPS systems allow for geofencing. This feature lets you set virtual boundaries (e.g., a marina or dock area). If the boat is moved outside the predetermined area, the system can send an alert, enabling immediate action.
Improved recovery rate
GPS tracking significantly increases the likelihood of recovering a stolen boat. Law enforcement can use the real-time data to quickly locate and retrieve the vessel before it’s stripped for parts or sold.
Remote Immobilization
Some GPS systems are integrated with features that allow owners to remotely disable the engine. If the boat is stolen, you can cut power to the engine, preventing further movement.
Tamper alerts
Certain GPS systems include anti-tampering features. If someone tries to disable or remove the device, the system will send an alert, allowing boat owners to take immediate action.
Choosing a GPS tracker for boats
When selecting a GPS tracker for your boat, consider the following:
- Marine environments are harsh, so ensure the device is fully waterproof and resistant to saltwater corrosion.
- Some trackers are hardwired into the boat’s electrical system, while others are battery-operated. A long-lasting battery is essential if the boat is often stationary for long periods.
- Choose a tracker with strong signal range coverage, especially if your boat will be traveling in remote areas. GPS systems with satellite-based communication are ideal for open-water environments.
- Look for a system that provides a user-friendly app or web interface with monitoring features like geofencing, tamper alerts, and real-time tracking. You want ease of use and monitoring features.
Rola Nasser, Vice President of Pacific Marine Underwriting Managers, explains that their insurance policies require GPS tracking for specific vessels, including ski boats valued at $80,000 or more, runabouts, cruisers under 30 feet, and all trailable vessels over $100,000. If no GPS tracking is installed, theft coverage is excluded, a standard practice with most insurers. The approved tracking systems must be non-battery operated and typically involve micro traceable chips within the vessel. Approved devices include brands like Domino, Spot, and TAG. Additionally, they offer a 10% discount on insurance premiums for any installed tracking device.
Reporting a stolen boat in Canada
In Canada, if your boat is stolen:
- Contact local law enforcement: Provide as much detail as possible, including the boat’s description, identification numbers (Hull Identification Number, engine serial numbers), and any GPS tracking data.
- Notify your insurance company immediately. Many insurers offer coverage for theft and may have specific procedures to follow in these situations.
- Register your boat with Stolen Boats Canada, a volunteer-run site primarily focused on BC, though it serves all of Canada. It connects local boaters and the marine community to help locate stolen vessels. Many boats are successfully recovered with the assistance of citizens and other boaters in the area.
- Check online marketplaces. Thieves often attempt to sell stolen boats or parts online. Monitor marketplaces like Kijiji, Craigslist, and boat trading sites for any signs of your vessel.
Tip: If you are looking to buy a used boat, make sure you search the registration at https://www.cpic-cipc.ca/sbo-rba-eng.htm to ensure the boat is not listed in the stolen boat registry. Or you can query a boat owner to verify the providence of the boat.
Although boat theft in Canada is not as rampant as auto theft, it is good to install a tracking system on your boat. GPS tracking has proven to be one of the most effective tools in both preventing theft and aiding in the recovery of stolen boats in Canada. Reporting your boat stolen as soon as possible, can also aid in recovery. For more information on boat theft insurance coverage contact an agent at Safe Harbour Insurance.
Resources for boat theft
Safe Harbour Insurance: 8 tips to prevent boat theft
Pat’s Boating in Canada: Preventing theft around your boat (https://boating.ncf.ca/security.html)
Chek News: Boat stolen from vancouver island village
Vancouver Sun: Crash on Bowen Island ends five day string of BC boat thefts
Summerland Review: Stolen boat recovered
Kelowna Now: Boat and trailer stolen from Kelowna driveway
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