Boat Bill of Sale Template (Canada)

Updated on August 15, 2026

Canada runs two separate systems that a lot of buyers mix up. A Pleasure Craft Licence (PCL) is just an identification number, required for a recreational boat with one or more engines totalling 10 horsepower (7.5 kW) or more — it's the boating equivalent of a licence plate, not proof of ownership. Vessel Registration is a separate, fuller system giving proof of ownership and a registered name, generally used for vessels over 15 gross tons.

This template records the boat's engine power and gross tonnage so it's clear which system applies, rather than assuming a PCL number on the hull is the same thing as a registered title.

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Boat Bill of Sale

Date:
Seller:
Buyer:

For the price of , the Seller sells and delivers to the Buyer the vessel , hull identification number , length , engine power HP.

1. Warranty of title

The Seller warrants they own the vessel and are selling it free of liens.

2. Condition

The vessel is sold as-is. Known defects:

3. General

This agreement is governed by the laws of Canada and the applicable province.

Seller

Date:

Buyer

Date:

A Pleasure Craft Licence is not proof of ownership

A PCL is required once a recreational boat's total engine power reaches 10 horsepower (7.5 kW), but it only assigns an identification number for display on the bow — it does not establish or transfer ownership the way full Vessel Registration does.

Vessel Registration is the fuller system, mainly for larger craft

Vessels over 15 gross tons with an engine of 10 horsepower or more generally fall under full Vessel Registration, which gives proof of ownership and a unique official number and name that must be marked on the vessel.

What each clause does

Parties: Buyer and seller.
Vessel: Make, model, hull identification number, length and engine power.
Warranty of title: Kept separate from the condition clause.

Legal requirements in Canada

Whether a boat needs a Pleasure Craft Licence, full Vessel Registration, or neither depends on engine power and gross tonnage.

Check the 10 HP threshold for a Pleasure Craft Licence
A recreational boat with one or more engines totalling 10 horsepower (7.5 kW) or more needs a Pleasure Craft Licence — an ID number, not a title.
Transport Canada — Apply for or manage a vessel registration
Check whether full Vessel Registration applies
Vessels over 15 gross tons with an engine of 10 horsepower or more generally require full Vessel Registration, which gives proof of ownership rather than just an ID number.

How to complete the bill of sale

Describe the vessel. Make, model, hull identification number, length and engine power.
Check which system applies. Pleasure Craft Licence, full Vessel Registration, or neither.
State the price and delivery. Total price and delivery location.

Frequently asked questions

Do I need to register my boat in Canada?

Depends on engine power and size — a Pleasure Craft Licence (just an ID number) is needed once engine power reaches 10 HP; full Vessel Registration, which proves ownership, generally applies to vessels over 15 gross tons.

Does a Pleasure Craft Licence number prove I own the boat?

No — it's only an identification number. Full Vessel Registration is the system that establishes and transfers proof of ownership.

Can I sell the boat as-is and still warrant title?

Yes — condition refers to physical state, ownership is a separate matter that should stay separate in the contract.

What if the boat has an outstanding loan?

Ask the seller for written confirmation the boat is free of liens before you pay.

Should I insure the boat right away?

Yes — contact your insurer before taking possession of the vessel.

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Disclaimer

This template and guide are for general information only and are not legal advice.