Publications:

 HAVE YOU READ OR DO YOU HAVE THE CURRENT VERSION OF THESE PUBLICATIONS / REGULATIONS

Over the years, things change - including regulations and publications.  You must stay current with the regulations and publications.

  1. Catalogue of Nautical Charts and Related Publications
    http://www.charts.gc.ca/charts-cartes/index-eng.asp
  2. CHS - Navigation Charts (for the applicable trip)
  3. NOTICE-TO-MARINER (NOTMAR) Updates are found at: https://www.notmar.gc.ca/

    for more up-to-date advisories
  4.  NOTICE TO SHIPPING (NOTSHIP) advisories are found at: http://www.ccg-gcc.gc.ca/eng/CCG/Notship
  5. CHART 1 Updates are found at: http://www.charts.gc.ca/documents/publications/Chart-Carte-1.pdf

GOT A VHF OR SSB RADIO

TP13926 Radio Log Book for Canadian Flag Vessels (Also for GMDSS exempted vessels) - http://www.tc.gc.ca/eng/marinesafety/tp-tp13926-menu-774.htm

VHF Radiotelephone Practices and Procedures Regulations:   http://laws-lois.justice.gc.ca/eng/regulations/SOR-81-364/

FINALLY

TP 14525 - Pre-Departure Checklist: 
http://www.tc.gc.ca/publications/en/tp14525/pdf/hr/tp14525e.pdf