Over the last decade, the innovation of new smartphone apps has made the life of the boaters both safer and more fun! From chartering and navigation to wildlife recognition, there’s an app for everything! Here are five app recommendations for iOS and Android smartphones:

1. iNaturalist Canada for Wildlife Discoveries

Developed by the Canadian Wildlife Federation, this free app has an auto ID image recognition feature that provides instant species suggestions for what you are observing. You can upload and track all your wildlife encounters while contributing valuable species data to CEF. All your discoveries are vetted through NatureServe Canada before ending up in the laps of academics and scientists who use your information to further conservation efforts in Canada.

 

 

2. C-Tow for 24-hour Marina Assistance

C-Tow is a boater’s best friend. It allows boaters in the Western Provinces to connect immediately with 24/7 dispatch service when needed. The free app uses your phone’s GPS to pinpoint your exact latitude and longitude for faster and more accurate response time. Plus, it accesses Environment Canada’s marine weather, Fisheries and Oceans tides and real time weather reports.

 

3. Discover Boating for Interactive Checklists and Reference Guides

This free bi-lingual app features everything you need to ensure a safe and fun time on the water, no matter where or how you go boating. Use its interactive and detailed checklist to make sure you have everything necessary before heading out on the water. It also covers a range of regulations and visual guides to keep you in tip-top shape. Filled with useful boating tips, you will be happy to have this handy app at the ready.

 

 

4. Wavve for an expansive boating community

Got a burning question? Looking for a new spot to check out? Wave has a great online community for asking and answering all your nautical questions. The Wavve allows users to share their knowledge of waterways by adding moorings, boat ramps, marinas and other points of interest directly to their map so it’s shared with everyone! Similar to Reddit, users can comment and vote on other user’s pins if something is really great, or if something is amiss. This app has a 14-day free trial before rolling into a $19.49/year subscription.

 

 

5. Sailing Plan for simple creation and filing of your float plan

How do you leave your sailing plans with your emergency contact? Post-it on the fridge? Last-minute text message? Or do you forget all together? Sailing Plan is a simple app that allows you to create, file and share your float plan with your emergency contacts. Your float plan only takes a couple minute by inputting your intended route and launch time, the number of persons onboard, any pit stops and finally your arrival time. Don’t arrive back on-time? It sends your emergency contact a message as a reminder to check-in with you in case they don’t hear back from you. Available for a 1-year free trial, then only 99¢/year!

 

 

While many of us escape to the water as a way to disconnect, we highly recommend taking your smartphone with you next time – to ensure maximum fun and safety for all participants!

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