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Marine Insurance for Boating on Joffre Lakes

Navigate the bright blue and green waters Joffre Lakes with the right boat insurance.

The importance of boat insurance on Joffre Lakes

Boating on B.C.’s Joffre Lakes isn’t without risk. Boat insurance protects you, your passengers, and your boat. It provides you with needed financial protection when the unexpected happens.

Here’s why you need boat insurance:

  • Boat insurance protects you against an accident, injury, or death liability
  • Property damage
  • Theft, vandalism
  • Boat insurance protects you against a fire on your boat
  • Severe weather
  • Accident with uninsured/underinsured boat
  • Boat insurance can help cover legal fees, medical expenses, and property repairs or replacements

Marine insurance isn’t mandatory for boating on Joffre Lakes, but B.C. marinas can require it for mooring.

It’s recommended that you have $3 million in liability insurance coverage as part of your marine insurance to protect yourself as a boat owner in British Columbia.

Here’s what you need to know about boating on Joffre Lakes:

Where is it?

Joffre Lakes is three lakes surrounded by glacier-capped mountains about 60 kilometres northwest of Whistler. It’s about a half-hour drive from Pemberton.

The lakes are called Lower, Middle, and Upper Joffre Lakes.

How fast can my boat go on Joffre Lakes?

It’s important to obey all posted speed and vessel restrictions on the lake to promote safety and to protect the lake's ecosystem and shoreline.

What’s there to do on Joffre Lakes?

Joffre Lakes is considered one of British Columbia’s most beautiful areas to hikes and it’s a relatively easy trail to hike. The hiking trail passes all three lakes and reaches the campsite next to Upper Joffre Lake where Matier Glacier is seen.

The three lakes are situated below three large glaciers: Tszil Glacier, Matier Glacier and Stonecrop Glacier.

Did you know?

The striking colour of Joffre Lakes is caused by what’s known as rockflour, or glacial silt, which is suspended in the water and reflects green and blue wave lengths of sunlight.

Is there any fishing?

Both Lower and Middle Joffre Lakes have been stocked with rainbow trout. Owing to the cold conditions in these two lakes, the fish are generally smaller.

You need to have a valid fishing license in British Columbia to fish.

Are there any beaches?

The glacier-fed lakes are quite cold and are generally not recommended for swimming.

What about camping?

Camping is available at Joffre Lakes Provincial Park. Remember to follow pack-in-pack-out rules and leave nothing behind but footprints. Campfires are banned year-round.

No pets are allowed due to bears.

There are no emergency services available nearby. You must be self-sufficient in this remote environment and properly equipped for self-rescue.

How do I safely dock my boat?

  1. Always approach the dock slowly, whether you’re at a harbour, marina, or a private dock. Waves caused by a higher speed may disrupt other boaters.
  2. Approach the dock from the right angle. The ideal angle of approach is around 30 degrees. When your boat is within 10 metres of your docking point, shift into neutral and let your momentum carry you to the dock.
  3. Just before your boat touches the dock, turn its steering wheel so that the boat is positioned parallel to the dock.
  4. Once your boat is no longer moving, tie the mooring ropes at the bow and stern to the cleats on the dock.

Tips for safe boating

  • You need an appropriate, approved life jacket for each person on board your boat.
  • Know the area where you are boating and be aware of any hazards, such as rocks or logs.
  • Do not drink or do drugs when boating. Both can impair your judgment.
  • Have a bailer or manual bilge pump on board
  • Have a paddle on board
  • Have a sound signaling device (whistle) and flares
  • Have a magnetic compass
  • Have a watertight flashlight if you are operating your boat at night
  • Be aware of the heat and say hydrated
  • Check the weather forecast
  • Make sure someone knows where you are going and when you will return to shore.

Why choose Western for your B.C.
boat insurance?

Expertise

We are a leading Canadian insurance broker that works with our insurance partners to get you the best coverage options to protect your boat.

Competitive pricing

We offer competitive pricing to get you B.C. marine insurance at the best value for you.

Customer service

We are committed to providing excellent customer service and we are always available to answer any questions you may have about your boat insurance needs in British Columbia.

Convenience

We offer a range of online, phone, and in-person services, making it easy for you to get the B.C. marine insurance policy you need and to make changes as needed.