SVOP: Small Vessel Operator Proficiency Training Course

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.