A little maintenance and a few sustainable habits will keep your boat running smoothly, ready for another season on the water. | PHOTO: WHAT A RIDE/DESTINATION ONTARIO

Green Your Boat: Smart, Sustainable Choices for the Season Ahead

With modern tech and mindful choices, you can make boating more eco-friendly and keep on cruising.

By Peter A. Robson

Spring is the perfect time to get your boat ready for another season on the water — and to make a few smart, sustainable adjustments. The good news? Most eco-friendly habits are straightforward, practical and can even save you money on fuel and maintenance.

Stay confident and prepared with these best practices for eco-conscious boating, which can help make your time on the water more sustainable.

Peter A. Robson is an award-winning marine author and journalist with more than 35 years of experience covering boats and boating. He is the former editor of Pacific Yachting magazine.

Practising sustainable boating habits protects the water and wildlife. | PHOTO: APPLE WAGON FILMS/DESTINATION ONTARIO

Smart maintenance

A clean, well-maintained boat runs more efficiently and reduces unnecessary pollution. Wash your boat on gravel, grass or a designated marina wash pad rather than on pavement, where runoff flows directly into storm drains. Use biodegradable marine-specific cleaners and allow wash water to soak into the ground instead of flowing back into the lake. If you use shrink wrap for winter storage, check with your marina about recycling options. Many Ontario marinas offer seasonal collection programs, though availability varies by location. Note that most boat wrap recycling programs require the wrap to be clean, dry and free of straps, buckles, wood and doors. A reusable marine cover made from breathable polyester or acrylic fabric is another option. It can last multiple seasons, better manage condensation during freeze-thaw winters and reduce annual plastic waste.

Reduce fuel use and emissions

One of the simplest ways to lower emissions is by adjusting how you operate your boat. Running at wide-open throttle while boating on the lake can use up to twice as much fuel as cruising at moderate speeds. Once on plane (moving fast enough, so the front of the boat is skimming along the top of the water), trim (adjust the angle of the motor) gradually until speed increases without adding throttle. Proper trim reduces drag (resistance from the water) and can improve fuel efficiency by 10 to 15 percent. If you’re considering an upgrade to your motor, modern four-stroke outboards deliver significantly lower emissions and improved fuel efficiency compared to older carbureted two-strokes. Electric outboards are becoming a practical option for short runs and trolling — a fishing technique where baited lines are left cast out behind a slow-moving boat to catch fish. Electric outboards are quiet, require minimal maintenance and produce zero local emissions, making them well suited to smaller lakes and day trips, though gasoline engines still offer greater range for longer distances. When fuelling, take your time and avoid overfilling. Even small amounts of fuel or oil can spread quickly across the water’s surface. Keep absorbent pads or a fuel collar on hand to catch drips and place an absorbent pad in the bilge (the lowermost part of the boat’s interior), especially on inboard-powered boats, to capture residual oil before it can be pumped overboard.

No need for full throttle. Reducing your speed while adjusting your trim can reduce fuel usage. | VIDEO: OLEKSANDRWORLDSTUDIO/ENVATO

Stopping the spread of invasive species

Ontario requires boaters to prevent the spread of aquatic invasive species. Before moving between lakes, follow the prevention protocol known as Clean, Drain, Dry:

Clean: Remove plants, mud and organisms from your boat, trailer and gear.
Drain: Empty all water, including from bilges, livewells, ballast tanks and any standing water.
Dry: Allow equipment to fully dry between trips.

Under Ontario’s Invasive Species Act, it is illegal to transport watercraft with aquatic plants, animals or algae attached when moving between water bodies. Staying informed keeps your boat compliant and helps protect the lakes you enjoy. For more information on boating rules and licensing in Ontario, visit Transport Canada.

Best practices for sustainable fishing

While there are significant changes to make your fishing boat greener, even the smallest gear choices matter. Consider lead-free sinkers — alternatives such as tin, steel or tungsten are widely available. Use barbless hooks for quicker release and lower fish stress. Handle fish with wet hands and use knotless rubber nets to protect their slime coat. Many marinas also offer monofilament fishing line recycling bins to keep it out of the water and shoreline.

A greener season starts now

Making your boat more sustainable doesn’t require dramatic change. A few mindful habits — including efficient speeds, careful cleaning, smart fuelling and responsible fishing — can help protect Ontario’s lakes while keeping you ready for the season ahead. Small steps add up — and every launch is another opportunity to do it right. CAA

Whether you catch the big one or tell the tale of the one that got away, enjoy your day on the water as an environmental steward. | PHOTO: COURTESY OF DESTINATION ONTARIO