Boats are Important

November 20, 2025

When the budget passed on Tuesday, the burdensome “luxury” tax was removed and the people involved with boating were relieved.

Why are boats important, you might well ask. First, there is a whole range of direct economic benefit. Beyond the people who sell boats, right across the country there are mechanics and other service providers who store, fix and detail boats. Thousands more work at shoreline resorts and restaurants that cater to boaters in water accessible towns. Just cruise the Rideau for examples. Head to Granville Island and see the boat lunch shoppers.

Many people work directly in chandleries and other places (like Canadian Tire) that sell boat parts and supplies.  Even though a lot of gear comes from offshore, there are a number of people who work making those supplies right here in Canada. Mustang is but one good example. Almost every Salus PFD is made in Canada, in a century old, refurbished warehouse in Kitchener Ontario. And there are many more from Victoria to St John’s building stuff, making and repairing boat accessories. The boat industry is not renowned for making people wealthy but working in it is a source of pride and satisfaction.

While the luxury tax didn’t affect that many buyers, it sent a message that boating is a luxury for only the hoity. That, of course, is not truer of boating than of skiing, beer league hockey or any other leisure/hobby activity.

Removing that tax removes a sneer from our community. A very broad, diverse community. I have the privilege of seeing the breadth of that community right across the country: power, sail, racers, water skiers, kids learning to sail, anglers enjoying the outdoors. Some are rich, some are not, who cares? It’s a passion that we share with each other and help make this country, rich in shoreline and inland waterways more cohesive and happier.

John Morris,
Online Editor
John@opmediagroup.ca