HOW DID THE ONTARIO BOATING LEAGUE (OBL) GET ITS START?

The OBL was founded by Dave Holding in 1988, a millwright for over 20 years, turned live aboard Charter Boat Captain  1980--1987 (on SE Georgian Bay).  During this time, Dave heard and answered many calls from local pleasure craft operators and Coast Guard Officials relaying requests for assistance.  Most troubles were dead batteries, out of fuel, or simply stuck on a sandbar or rock.  Sometimes the Coast Guard or Police would send their own boats to assist, usually they would not (at least not right away).  So it occurred to Dave that boaters needed an emergency service similar to that offered by auto-clubs (which would respond right away regardless of the nature of difficulty).    The intention was not to take over the role of the Coast Guard.  However, Dave's very first mission using the new OBL Service Craft was when he answered a call for help where the lives of 12 people were in immediate danger.  It's simply the law of the sea to respond.  Oftentimes (each year) the role of the Coast Guard, civilian towboat operators, and even pleasure craft operators that are nearby and able to help, are the same.

DO CIVILIAN RESPONDERS (such as the OBL) GET PAID WHEN THEY RESCUE PEOPLE?

No.  Only Coast Guard and Police are compensated for search & rescue tasking.  However, if the (boat) is saved by a civilian,  there is a provision in the Canada Shipping Act which entitles the salvager to a negotiated financial reward.  (More often than not, when the boat is saved, so are the people!)

HOW IS THE ONTARIO BOATING LEAGUE FUNDED?

Freewill Seasonal Membership dues account for about 25% of each seasons operating budget.  The balance comes from fees for services rendered to non-members, and rewards issued by boat insurance companies.

DOES THE ONTARIO BOATING LEAGUE COVER SERVICE CALL FEES INCURRED OUTSIDE THE SE GEORGIAN BAY AREA?

No, OBL Membership Benefits only apply within our service area.  If you expect to boat much beyond our service area, Dave recommends you enroll in an National or International Membership Plan that will reimburse you for your out of pocket service call charges.

IF I RUN AGROUND, AND GET STUCK, IS FREEING MY BOAT A MEMBERSHIP BENEFIT?

Yes--If your boat can be pulled free safely, (using one OBL Service Craft and towrope), without the need for additional equipment such as a barge, crane, lift bag, pumps, etc.  If additional equipment is required, and/or a tow back to port is required following the release, this is normally covered by hull insurance.  Competitive Commercial Rates Apply.  OBL Membership should not be considered a substitute for adequate hull insurance.