Irresponsible Boaters Impact Us All

July 24, 2025

While it’s not fair to link out of control jet-ski drivers with the responsible, licensed and careful boating community, the general public may not understand the difference.  So, when we read that there is a growing campaign to ban boating activities, even if it is directed at rental PWC drivers who are likely not real boaters, there is reason for concern.

The chaos has developed in Toronto in the Woodbine Beach area. A short term PWC operation has let virtually anyone drive and drive they do – high speeds, intoxication, huge wake through sailing schools, abandoned and sunk vessels, and disregard for speed limits have been creating concern.

Recently the police have started cracking down (long overdue, according to local boaters). An Ashbridges Bay YC report indicated that 50+ tickets (12,000$ in fines) were handed out; 49 inspections were done; 20+ bylaw offences (5,000+ $), vehicles and boats towed. That was just the result of a week’s blitz.

The Toronto Star reports Coun. Brad Bradford (Ward 19 Beaches-East York) wants Ports Toronto to implement a motorized watercraft exclusion zone at Woodbine Beach, ranging at least 100 metres off the shoreline.

“Many residents have reached out. They’re scared and they’re frustrated,” Bradford told the Star. “Swimmers have nearly been hit, and people have been afraid to take paddleboards or kayaks out on the water because of these reckless renters, who may be driving one for the first time with no real training.”

This cannot be good for the boating community.

John Morris, Online Editor

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