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Marine Insurance for Boating on Sproat Lake

Navigate the warm, clear waters of Sproat Lake with the right boat insurance.

The importance of boat insurance on
Sproat Lake

Boating on B.C.’s Sproat Lake 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 Sproat Lake, 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 Sproat Lake:

Where is it?

Sproat Lake is located on the highway to Tofino, Ucluelet and the Pacific Rim National Park. It’s a popular vacation destination on Vancouver Island. It’s not far from the community of Port Alberni.

The cross-shaped lake has four arms, the lake is over 25 kilometres in length, and has about 90 km of shoreline.

How fast can my boat go on Sproat Lake?

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.

Sproat Lake has its own water patrol to promote a safe marine culture. The Sproat Lake Marine Patrol zodiac patrols the lake enforcing safe boating practices and is also used for water testing.

What’s there to do on Sproat Lake?

Sproat Lake is ideal for boating, especially for those who enjoy tubing, waterskiing, and wakeboarding due to its vast size and many arms.

Houseboating is popular on Sproat Lake.

Sproat Lake Provincial Park is the only public boat launch. Many Sproat Lake homes come with water access and a private dock.

Did you know?

Sproat Lake is home to fish such as Rainbow trout, Cutthroat trout, and Kokanee salmon. The best fishing happens between late February and early October. Taylor Arm is said to be a magic spot during the spring). Watch for any special restrictions before heading to Sproat Lake to fish.

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

Are there any beaches?

Swimming at Sproat Lake is a popular activity. The lake is known for its clear water and sandy beaches.

Much of the waterfront around Sproat Lake is privately owned. Sproat Lake Provincial Park has the only public boat launch.

What about camping?

There are several campgrounds with the most popular being Sproat Lake Provincial Park and Taylor Arm Provincial Park.

How do I safely dock my boat on Sproat Lake?

  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 on Sproat Lake

  • 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.