Toronto boat show offers a ton of information
By Rear Commodores Dave Spencer and Dee McClure
A tremendous amount of useful technical information was discovered at January’s Toronto International Boat Show. The following is a short list of the items that attendees found most helpful. Note: This is not intended to recommend or promote any particular product.
● Technical consultation with factory representatives
In our humble opinions, one of the BIGGEST benefits from attending the boat show is access to engine and electronics vendors who have strong technical staff at the booths. We always come armed with questions about specific issues boaters encounter. Examples:
– Volvo diesel engine: Our members obtained detailed tech help about engine questions and the interpretation of annual oil analysis. In one case, not only did the member learn a lot, that member now has contact information for the lead Volvo diesel tech guy!
– Electronics: The technical reps at the B&G booth was able to use our member’s specific model to demonstrate exact settings and additional features to maximize the technology. Unlike calling some 800-number, a live person at the boat show will spend as much time as needed to answer questions with no waiting on hold.
– Dinghy engine hoists: One of our Club members was considering an engine hoist for the dinghy engine. Our member was able to discuss specific needs with several manufacturers and learn how their hoist would best fit a specific boat. It's nice to see and touch the product and speak with the designer before making a purchase.
● Personal consultation with OPP (Ontario Provincial Police) about various subjects
A Club member from Canada received an update about using electronic flares in Canada. Properly documented and approved electronic flares are now acceptable substitutes for such conventional pyrotechnics as multi-star, handheld, and parachute flares. However, smoke flares must be carried for daylight signaling. And the OPP representative reminded us that if alternate means of communication are on board (such as a VHF radio or a cell phone), only half the usual number of flares are required.
● Tether with built-in stress (overload) indicator:
Many of the newer tethers come equipped with a stress indicator which some boaters may not be aware of. Tethers with overload indicators have a bright flag embedded in the tether stitching which you may have never noticed.
That flag is revealed when the tether reaches its overload limit which compromises the tether’s integrity. This might occur when a tethered crew member goes over the side during an unexpected maneuver, accident, or storm. Older tethers may not have an overload indicator.
This is a reminder to not only check tethers this winter for wear, but also to see if yours are equipped with an overload indicator. For those racing offshore, overload indicators are required under ISAF Offshore Special Regulations.
● Dock muck, weed and debris removal:
Do you have muck, weed or debris constantly accumulating around your dock? If so, an oscillator, such as the Aqua Thruster 360, may be the solution. It’s a 360-degree oscillator (with adjustments for smaller custom sweep range) that provides continuous water movement in large dock or shoreline areas to keep a dock and beach free and clear. What’s not to love about this?
● Removable spring dock lead:
How many times have you pulled into a marina and the cleats are not in the correct spot for your boat? Likely more than a few. We found an interesting take on the removable dock leads that have been wildly popular at many GLCC Bilge auctions. The uniqueness of the EZE docker is that it is spring-loaded with a slightly “Y” shaped bottom that does not move once tension is put on the ring. This makes it ideal for creating a better lead on a dock’s cleat when not at your home port.
● Free Canadian Locks through Sept. 7, 2026:
In case you missed it, Canada is offering free lockage at the seven canals administered by Parks Canada on historic waterways. This is part of the Canada Strong Pass initiative. The seven canals are: Rideau Canal, Trent-Severn in Ontario and Carillon, Chambly, Lachine, Ste-Anne-de-Bellevue, and St-Ours in Quebec. Mooring fees still apply.
These are just a few of the items we found interesting. What questions could you have received answers to? Check out the boat show next year for answers.