Motor Boat Rental FAQ:

+ Do I need a Pleasure Craft Operators Card (PCOC)?

To rent a boat, no, you do not. However, we do require you to have a PCOC if you want to rent a tube. We enforce this rule because watersports such as tubing are dangerous without intermediate boating safety knowledge.

Whether you have a PCOC or not, our staff complete a pre-departure Rental Boat Safety Checklist (a short training seminar) for every customer. The checklist covers how to safely operate the boat, a map of Clear Lake and local hazards, and what to do in an emergency, among other important knowledge and safety precautions.

You take the completed Rental Boat Safety Checklist (and map) with you on the rental. As per Transport Canada regulations, this acts as a temporary Proof of Competence for the time of the rental.

+ Is operating a boat difficult? Is it dangerous?

As long as you act responsibly there is little risk. Almost all boat-related accidents, injuries, and casualties can be avoided if you:

  1. Stay sober
  2. Wear a lifejacket
  3. Boat in fair weather.
  4. Keep a safe distance from other boats, swimmers, and shore.
  5. Maintain safe speed, specifically in areas of high traffic.

Clear Lake is a great one for beginners. It is relatively small, the shoreline is always within sight, there are few underwater hazards, there is good cell service, and it is just busy enough that you are never alone- there are always fellow boaters nearby that can assist in case of emergency.

+ Can I cancel or change my booking?

Motor Boat booking cancellations and modifications are allowed up to 48 hours in advance of your rental start time. After 48 hours there are no refunds unless you purchased Cancellation Coverage or the weather is poor. More details on this in our terms and conditions (see below).

+ How early should I arrive for my rental?

Whoever is responsible for the booking (made the reservation, paying the damage deposit)and your designated captain must come at least twenty minutes early. If required, the Rental Boat Safety Checklist might extend into your rental time to ensure that you are knowledgeable in the safe operation of the watercraft. This time is not added to the end of the booking, so ensure you are here early.

All other group members will require lifejacket fitting prior to boarding, so 5-10 minutes is usually fine.

+ How do I get to the Clear Lake Marina?

Once you are in Wasagaming/ Clear Lake we are easy to locate- just look towards the lake! Parking is free throughout Wasagaming. On busy days it can be difficult to find a parking spot, so plan accordingly. Our marina is not accessible by vehicle. Everything you bring will have to be carried from your vehicle or cabin. Wagons or carts are a good idea if you have food, coolers, etc.

+ Do you provide lifejackets?

Yes, the Clear Lake Marina provides all of the necessary safety equipment, including fitted lifejackets for all ages. You are welcome to bring your own if you already have.

+ What do I need to bring?

A valid photo ID and credit card with space for the $1000 damage deposit. Of course, there are also things that can keep everyone comfortable like sunglasses, hats, water, snacks, towels, etc.

+ Can we fish?

Yes, fishing is permitted, but you must obtain a Riding Mountain National Park Fishing License. Provincial Fishing Licenses are not valid in the National Park and the regulations are different. For more info please visit Riding Mountain National Park's fishing webpage. We do not rent fishing gear, you must bring your own.

+ Are we allowed to bring food and drinks?

Yes. Food and drinks are allowed on the boats, but we ask that you clean up after yourself or pay a $15 cleaning fee.

Alcohol, however, is not allowed on the boats. If you arrive with alcohol or are under the influence you will not be allowed to rent, and you will not get a refund.

+ Are we allowed to bring dogs?

Yes. However, please be aware that some dogs really don't like being on boats. There is not much room for them to move. The boat rocks back and forth. It can be very hot with limited shade. That said, lots of dogs love boat rides!

Motor Boat Rental Terms and Conditions:

+ Cancellation Coverage:

  • Covid exposure, family sickness, car problems- whatever it may be.

  • Adding Cancellation Coverage to your booking allows you to get a full refund if you cancel after the 'no refund' cutoff time (48 hours for motor boats) leading up to your activity. The Coverage fee is non-refundable.

  • In order to file a claim, you need to contact us via phone or email prior to your activity's start time. Cancellations communicated after the start time will not be issued a refund.
  • Without Cancellation Coverage there are no refunds for customer instigated cancellations within 48 hours of activity start time.
  • Please ensure that you understand the cancellation policies for your chosen activity (see below).

+ Motor Boat Rental Payment and Deposit:

  • Full payment required at the time of reservation. No refund for cancellation within 48 hours of activity start time unless customer purchases Cancellation Protection at the time of booking, or there is poor weather on the day of the booking (see below).
  • $1000 damage deposit required at check-in prior to departure.
  • Poor weather and mechanical caused cancellations at Marina management discretion (see below).

+ Poor Weather Cancellations:

  • Clear Lake Marina management will exclusively make all decisions for weather related cancellations. We monitor weather and radar forecasts regularly and suggest you do the same in the days/ hours leading up to your activity.

  • In the event of Marina management cancellation due to convective weather (thunderstorms with lightning in the area), high winds, or other unsafe conditions, bookings can either be rescheduled (subject to availability) or fully refunded if cancelled prior to activity start time; and partially refunded if canceled during your activity.

  • Weather can change throughout the day. If you are travelling to Clear Lake exclusively to rent a boat or go on a cruise please pay careful attention to the weather forecast prior to travelling. It is not uncommon for morning rentals to experience fair weather while the afternoon activities are cancelled due to poor weather, and vice versa. If in doubt, give us a call.

+ Mechanical Cancellations:

  • Mechanical issues with our boats are rare as they are all under 3 years in service and well maintained. Our staff will inform you as soon as possible in the event that an earlier mechanical issue results in the cancellation of your booking. Cancellations due to earlier mechanical issues can be rescheduled or refunded in full but we will not offer supplementary compensation.

+ Hazardous and Abusive Actions:

  • If you are found to be operating the watercraft recklessly, putting yourself and others at risk of injury, abusing our staff, the public, or the rental equipment your rental will be terminated with no refund.

+ Damage Deposit, Damage, and Mechanical Issues:

  • You are financially responsible for damages and lost rental equipment as per waiver form (completed and signed during the booking process).
  • If a mechanical issue or damage arises during your rental we will provide assistance for your return and then take the necessary time to determine the cause of the damage/ malfunction.
  • For a motor boat this process could take several days and a professional mechanic's opinion. We will retain your damage deposit during this period in case your actions are deemed a factor.