*505/23Canadian Hydrographic Service – Magnetic Declination Calculations

(Recurrent publication of notice *505/23, originally published in the Notices to Mariners – Monthly Eastern Edition 05/2023 publication.)

Mariners are advised that CHS has adopted the harmonized World Magnetic Model (WMM), as found on the NCEI/NOAA website. Old compass rose declination information on CHS navigational products can be updated using this website: https://www.ngdc.noaa.gov/geomag/calculators/magcalc.shtml#declination. While the differences in the model declinations are small each year, they can become more significant over a large period of time.

*1207/23Canadian Hydrographic Service – Inappropriate Geographical Names Review Process

(Recurrent publication of notice *1207/23, originally published in the Notices to Mariners – Monthly Eastern Edition 12/2023 publication.)

The records of the Canadian Hydrographic Service could contain geographical names that may be considered inappropriate, offensive and derogatory. Geographical naming authorities are in the process of addressing many offensive place names, the review process is underway. For more information, about inappropriate geographical names, please see the following announcement. 

*401/26Protecting the North Atlantic Right Whale: Speed Restriction Measures in the Gulf of St. Lawrence

(Recurrent publication of notice *401/26, originally published in the Notices to Mariners – Monthly Eastern Edition 04/2026 publication.)

Purpose

This notice describes the speed and navigational restriction zones that vessels must follow in the Gulf of St. Lawrence.
The Government of Canada has established these zones to reduce the risk of vessels colliding with North Atlantic right whales (NARW).

Background

Due to changing migration patterns of NARW and their increased presence in the Gulf of St. Lawrence, the Government of Canada has set seasonal speed restrictions in specific zones. These speed restrictions zones are defined as “static zones”, “dynamic shipping zones”, “seasonal management areas”, a “voluntary seasonal slowdown zone” and a “restricted area”. See the map below for details.

Note: Vessels must follow Navigational Warnings outlining the speed restrictions. The Interim Order for the Protection of North Atlantic Right Whales (Eubalaena Glacialis) in the Gulf of St. Lawrence, 2026, enables the issuance of Navigational Warnings (NAVWARNs) imposing speed restrictions and navigation restrictions.

Speed restriction zones are described in monthly Notices to Mariners (NOTMARs), which are published by the Canadian Coast Guard. The status of these zones is broadcast through NAVWARNs, which are published by the Coast Guard’s Marine Communications and Traffic Services Centres.

Speed restriction zones and measures

The speed restriction zones will be effective from April 22, 2026, while the restricted area will be implemented based on whale presence.
Please check the latest NAVWARN for all speed restrictions currently in effect.

Speed Restriction Measures for 2026

These restrictions are in effect from April 22 to November 15, 2026.

Non-application

The measures described in this bulletin do not apply to:
a)a vessel in distress or providing assistance to a person or a vessel in distress;
b)a government vessel being used

(i)for law enforcement activities;

(ii)for search and rescue operations; or

(iii)to ensure the competency of the crew or the operational readiness of the vessel or crew with respect to such activities or operations.

Static zones

In the static zones, all vessels above 13.0 m in length overall (LOA) must proceed at a speed of not more than 10.0 knots over the ground.

Exclusions

Air cushion vessels operated by or on behalf of the Government of Canada that are engaged in ice-clearing activities from April to June in and around Chaleur Bay are exempted when in operation.

36.57 m (20-fathoms) shallow water protocol exclusion

Vessels engaged in any commercial fishing activity may proceed at a safe operational speed in waters not more than 36.57 m (20 fathom) deep within the static zones.

If a NAVWARN states that at least one North Atlantic right whale has been detected in waters within a static zone or its buffer zone that are not more than 36.57 m deep, the speed limit of 10.0 knots over the ground will apply in the concerned zone(s) to all vessels engaged in commercial fishing activities above 13.0 m in length overall (LOA). The speed restriction will be in effect for 15 days after the day on which the whale was detected. In the event of a new North Atlantic right whale detection occurring in the last 7 days of the 15-day slowdown period, the speed restriction will be extended for an additional 15 days from the date of the new detection. This would continue until no North Atlantic right whales are detected. The buffer zones associated with the static zones are located 5 nautical miles north and south of their adjacent border in waters less than 36.57 m deep. 

Dynamic shipping zones

There are five dynamic shipping zones (DSZ) located in the Traffic Separation Scheme (TSS) north and south of Anticosti Island: A, B, C, D and E.

Speed restrictions in the dynamic shipping zones

When a North Atlantic right whale is detected in a dynamic shipping zone or in the buffer zones, located 5 nautical miles south or 2.5 nautical miles from the eastern and western edges of the dynamic shipping zones:

•All vessels will be notified via a NAVWARN; and

•Vessels above 13.0 m in length overall (LOA) must proceed at a speed of not more than 10.0 knots over the ground within that zone.

When a NAVWARN is issued implementing a speed restriction in one or more dynamic shipping zone(s), vessels above 13.0 m in length (LOA) must not exceed a speed of 10.0 knots over the ground. Even though dynamic shipping zones overlap with static zones, vessels can travel at a safe operational speed in dynamic shipping zones when they are not under speed restriction. Mariners are encouraged to take into consideration the potential for their vessel striking North Atlantic right whales when considering a safe operational speed during navigation.

The speed restriction in the dynamic shipping zone(s) will be in effect for 15 days from the date of detection. In the event of a new North Atlantic right whale detection occurring in the last 7 days of the 15-day slowdown period, the speed restriction will be extended for an additional 15 days from the date of the new detection. This would continue until no NARW are detected. When a speed restriction is extended due to a new North Atlantic right whale detection, it should be noted that, contrary to previous years’ operations, no new NAVWARN will be issued. The initial NAVWARN will remain in place until a NAVWARN lifting the speed restriction is published.

Coordinates for the dynamic shipping zones:

Seasonal management areas

Seasonal management area 1 (SMA-1) and seasonal management area 2 (SMA-2) are speed restriction areas located north and south of dynamic shipping zone E, respectively.
Within seasonal management areas, vessels above 13.0 m in length (LOA):

•Must restrict their speed so as not to exceed 10.0 knots over the ground from April 22 to June 30, 2026; and

•Are allowed to proceed at a safe operational speed from July 1 to November 15, 2026, unless a North Atlantic right whale is detected. If a whale is detected, a speed restriction of 10.0 knots over the ground will be triggered for 15 days from the date of detection. In the event of a new North Atlantic right whale detection occurring in the last 7 days of the 15-day slowdown period, the speed restriction will be extended for an additional 15 days from the date of the new detection. This would continue until no North Atlantic right whales are detected.

Restricted area

In the summer months, an important proportion of the total North Atlantic right whale population gathers for feeding and surface activity near the Shediac Valley. Since this makes the North Atlantic right whale more susceptible to vessel collisions, a mandatory restricted area will be implemented in and near the Shediac Valley and will come into force once 80% of the restricted area is closed to fishing for the season as per the Department of Fisheries and Oceans’ (DFO) right whale closure protocol, or at the latest on June 15, 2026. The restricted area will be lifted on September 25, 2026, unless North Atlantic right whale detections are reported in high number, which would extend the restricted area beyond September 25.

The size and location of the area are determined based on historical detection data of North Atlantic right whales. All necessary details can be found in the Interim Order for the Protection of North Atlantic Right Whales (Eubalaena Glacialis) in the Gulf of St. Lawrence, 2026. Triggering and lifting of the restricted area will be communicated to mariners through NAVWARNs and notices to fish harvesters.

Vessels above 13.0 m in length (LOA) will be required to:

•Avoid the area unless they are part of the exceptions listed in the Interim Order for the Protection of North Atlantic Right Whales (Eubalaena Glacialis) in the Gulf of St. Lawrence, 2026;

•Transit the area at a speed not exceeding 8.0 knots over the ground if they are part of the exceptions.

The following exceptions will apply to the restricted area. The following listed vessels can travel through the area at not more than 8.0 knots over the ground:

•A vessel being used for commercial fishing;
•A vessel being used for fishing under the authority of a licence issued under the Aboriginal Communal Fishing Licences Regulations;
•A vessel being used for research purposes on behalf of the Government of Canada
•A vessel involved in research relating to right whales as part of a project that has received funding from the Government of Canada;
•A vessel being used as part of the Department of Fisheries and Oceans’ Marine Mammal Response Program to assist a marine mammal or sea turtle in distress or to access or retrieve a deceased marine mammal or sea turtle;
•A vessel authorized by the Government of Canada to retrieve or identify the location of abandoned or lost fishing gear;
•A vessel involved in pollution response operations;
•A vessel avoiding immediate or unforeseen danger; or

•A vessel being used to conduct the maintenance or repair of underwater communication cables.

The following vessels can travel through the restricted area at a speed over 8.0 knots, but below 10.0 knots over the ground as required by the static speed restriction zone:

•A vessel being used by an employee of the Government of Canada or peace officer who is performing their duties.

Coordinates for the restricted area:

•48°31.8’ N 063°39.6’ W
•48°24.72’ N 063°17.88’ W
•47°18.84’ N 064°10.8’ W
•47°27.18’ N 064°30.72’ W

Report of death or injury

In the event that at least one North Atlantic right whale is reported dead or injured in the Gulf of St. Lawrence in a zone or area where there is no NAVWARN in effect, a speed restriction of 10.0 knots over the ground for vessels above 13.0 m in length overall (LOA) will be implemented in the concerned zone(s) or area(s) for 15 days from the time the NAVWARN comes into effect.

Inclement weather exception

Mariners will be notified in advance via a NAVWARN should the speed restriction status change in any zone or area, due to inclement weather.

Within any zone or area that is no longer subject to a speed restriction due to adverse weather conditions, mariners may proceed at a safe operational speed, but are encouraged to take into consideration the potential for their vessel striking North Atlantic right whales when determining that speed during navigation.

*Non-excepted vessels are still prohibited from transiting through the restricted area.

Voluntary seasonal slowdown in Cabot Strait

To coincide with the North Atlantic right whales entering and exiting the Gulf of St. Lawrence in large numbers, a voluntary seasonal slowdown is being put in place in Cabot Strait from April 22 to June 30, 2026, and from September 2 to November 15, 2026.

•During these periods, vessels above 13 m in length (LOA) are requested to voluntarily reduce their speed so as to not exceed 10.0 knots over the ground.

Voluntary seasonal slowdown zone coordinates:

•48° 10.5’ N 061° 00’ W
•47° 37.2’ N 059° 18.5’ W
•47° 02’ N 060° 23.7’ W
•47° 58.1’ N 061° 03.5’ W
•48° 00’ N 061° 00’ W

Map of the Gulf of St. Lawrence

The map below provides a visual representation of the main zones mentioned. It must not be used for navigation or law enforcement purposes.

•Static zones (north and south), in pink;
•Dynamic shipping zones (A, B, C, D and E), in green;
•Seasonal management areas, in dark pink;
•Voluntary seasonal slowdown zone, in grey;
•Restricted area, in dark blue; and
•36.57 m (20 fathoms) DFO shallow water protocol line.

Roseway Basin – Area to be Avoided

The Roseway Basin, located approximately 20 nautical miles south of Cape Sable Island, Nova Scotia, is a critical habitat for North Atlantic right whales, which have been observed to gather in the area on a seasonal basis in Canadian waters. This critical habitat is also located near key shipping routes. In 2007, Canada, with the support of many groups with varied interests, proposed to the International Maritime Organization (IMO) the establishment of a seasonal Area to be Avoided in the Roseway Basin to protect North Atlantic right whales, which IMO accepted and adopted.

To reduce the risk of vessels colliding with North Atlantic right whales, it is recommended that vessels of 300 gross tonnages and more, in transit during the period of June 1 through December 31, avoid the Roseway Basin area. Smaller vessels are also encouraged to avoid passage through this area. If passage is necessary within the Area to be Avoided, it is recommended that all mariners decrease their vessel speed to no more than 10 knots, when safe to do so.

Roseway Basin coordinates:

•43° 16’ N 064° 55’ W
•42° 47’ N 064° 59’ W
•42° 39’ N 065° 31’ W
•42° 52’ N 066° 05’ W

Bay of Fundy – Voluntary Slowdown

The Grand Manan Basin located in the Bay of Fundy is identified as a critical habitat for the North Atlantic right whale. When North Atlantic right whales are detected in the Bay of Fundy shipping lanes and near the Grand Manan Basin area (see sectors 1 and 2 on Canadian Coast Guard’s map), the Bay of Fundy Vessel Traffic Services will ask vessels to voluntarily slowdown to 10 knots via VHF channel 12 or 14 at corresponding Calling-in-Points.

This map is for visual representation only and is not to be used for navigation or enforcement.

NAVWARN broadcasts

The Canadian Coast Guard’s Marine Communications and Traffic Services Centres (MCTS) issue NAVWARNs:

•By radio broadcast: for marine radio, Continuous Marine Broadcast frequencies and scheduled broadcast times, information may be found in the Radio Aids to Marine Navigation publication; and

•Online: at Canada’s Maritime Information Portal and its Navigational Warnings site, using the North Atlantic Right Whale search term or category.

Mariners must ensure they have accurate and up-to-date information about the protection of the North Atlantic right whale, as in all applicable NOTMARs and NAVWARNs.

Outbound vessels will receive NAVWARNs

•at Calling-in-Point 10 (St-Laurent); or

•upon a departure downstream from the Quebec pilot station (including the Saguenay River, Chaleur Bay, Miramichi Bay, etc.).

Inbound vessels will receive NAVWARNs

•when a clearance to enter Canadian waters is granted.

Vessels in transit will receive NAVWARNs

•at the last reporting point prior to entering the mandatory speed restriction zones;

•vessels in transit will confirm they have received NAVWARNs.

MCTS Centres will broadcast NAVWARNs continuously throughout the season on Continuous Marine Broadcast.

It should be noted that, contrary to previous years’ operations, reminders sent to vessels in transit 10 nautical miles before entering a speed restriction zone will no longer be transmitted.

Vessel operators are required to monitor broadcasts by the Canadian Coast Guard’s Marine Communications and Traffic Services network for the most up to date information.

Aids to navigation

The Canadian Coast Guard broadcasts virtual Automatic Identification System (AIS) aids to navigation (AIS AtoN) in specific areas. These aids may notify mariners of dynamic shipping zones and/or seasonal management areas subject to speed restrictions.
Each zone is delimited by four to six virtual AIS AtoN, which can be displayed on a ship’s navigation equipment, such as

•Electronic Chart Display and Information System (ECDIS);

•Electronic Chart System (ECS);
•Radar;
•Minimum Keyboard Display (MKD).

The Canadian Coast Guard broadcasts the virtual AIS AtoN only when a speed restriction is in effect in one or more zones.

Mariners must select the virtual AIS AtoN symbol to view a message such as “SectA1 Spd Lim 10 kt.” This message refers to a speed restriction in effect for a specific zone.

Note: This system is not the primary method of communicating this information.

Compliance and enforcement

Vessels must comply with the Interim Orders made pursuant to the Canada Shipping Act, 2001, and any NAVWARNs broadcasted and published by the Canadian Coast Guard relating to the Interim Orders, aimed at regulating the navigation for the purposes of protecting the North Atlantic right whales.

If a vessel does not comply with the Interim Orders or instructions in the NAVWARNs related to the Interim Orders, the vessel could face:

•administrative monetary penalties up to a maximum of CAN $250,000; and/or

•penal sanctions under the Canada Shipping Act, 2001 is liable on summary conviction to a fine of not more than CAN $1,000,000 or to imprisonment for a term of not more than 18 months, or to both.

If a vessel appears to have violated the speed restriction, Transport Canada Marine Safety inspectors will review all information provided through AIS and seek an explanation from the master.

No exemptions to the speed restriction will be granted in advance. However, if a deviation from the speed restrictions is necessary for safety reasons, the following information must be entered into the bridge logbook:

•reason(s) for deviation;

•speed at which vessel is operated;
•latitude and longitude at time of deviation;
•time and duration of deviation; and

•master of the vessel shall sign and date the bridge logbook entry.

For any deviation, Transport Canada will review and consider reasons such as:

•navigating to ensure vessel safety;
•weather conditions;
•force majeure (unforeseeable circumstances); and

•responding to emergencies.

Report a North Atlantic right whale sighting

If you see live, free-swimming whales:

•Email: DFO.GLFWhales-BaleinesGLF.MPO@dfo-mpo.gc.ca

•When reporting sightings of North Atlantic right whales, you must include: GPS location (latitude and longitude), date and time of sighting, number of marine mammals, photograph(s)/video(s) collected and if possible, behavior of marine mammals observed (ex., feeding, travelling, diving).

Sightings of entangled, injured or dead North Atlantic right whale

If you see a North Atlantic right whale (and all other marine mammals) entangled, injured or dead, please document and report it immediately to the regional Response Network.

•When documenting you should collect: GPS location (latitude and longitude), date and time of sighting, number of marine mammals, photograph(s)/video(s), and description of the incident to provide to the Response Network.

Southern part of the Gulf of St. Lawrence (New Brunswick, Nova Scotia & Prince Edward Island)

Marine Animal Response Society

Telephone: 1-866-567-6277

Newfoundland and Labrador

Whale Release and Strandings Newfoundland and Labrador (Tangly Whales Inc.)

Telephone: 1-888-895-3003 or 1-709-895-3003

Quebec

Réseau québécois d’urgences pour les mammifères marins (RQUMM)

Telephone: 1-877-722-5346

Report a marine mammal or sea turtle incident or sighting:

For more information on reporting other marine mammal or sea turtle sighting and incidents.
Please consult Whale Insight for the latest right whale observations.

*406/26Saguenay–St. Lawrence Marine Park - Beluga Whale Protection: Slowdown Area at the Mouth of the Saguenay Fjord and Area Closure at Baie Sainte-Marguerite

(Recurrent publication of notice *406/26, originally published in the Notices to Mariners – Monthly Eastern Edition 04/2026 publication.)

The Saguenay–St. Lawrence Marine Park and its surrounding area are at the heart of endangered beluga whale critical summer habitat. Marine mammal protection measures have been put in place in accordance with the Marine Activities in the Saguenay–St. Lawrence Marine Park Regulations within the limits of the Marine Park.

However, important feeding, calving and rearing areas for beluga whales require greater protection to ensure the recovery of the species. The portion of the Saguenay situated between the mouth of the Fjord and Baie Sainte-Marguerite is one of the areas most used by females and their young from May to October. The mouth of the Saguenay is known as a feeding ground and Baie Sainte-Marguerite as a calving and rearing area.

In order to prevent collisions with beluga whales, a compulsory 15-knot slowdown area is in effect from May 1^st to October 31^st at the mouth of the Saguenay. To ensure tranquility for female belugas and their young during the critical calving period, access to Baie Sainte-Marguerite is prohibited to all vessels from June 21^st to September 21^st, except for special authorizations (see description below).

For safety reasons, the slowdown area measure at the mouth of the Saguenay Fjord does not apply to cargo ships (see the monthly edition of Notice to Mariners from May to October for voluntary protection measures in the St. Lawrence Estuary). An enhanced vigilance is, however, recommended to all navigators between the mouth of the Saguenay Fjord and Baie Sainte-Marguerite for the protection of beluga whales.

For more information on the Saguenay–St. Lawrence Marine Park, see notice 5C of the Notices to Mariners Annual Edition 2026 or visit the Saguenay‒St. Lawrence Marine Park website.

REGULATORY PROTECTION MEASURES — BELUGA WHALE

Entire Marine Park Territory:

•When beluga whales are less than half a nautical mile (926 metres) from a motorized vessel, the vessel must maintain a steady speed of between 5 and 10 knots.
•All vessels, including human-powered vessels (kayaks and canoes), must continue to move forward and maintain their heading.

•All vessels must maintain a minimum distance of 400 metres from beluga whales at all times.

For more information concerning the regulations, consult the ʺNavigateʺ section of the
Saguenay‒St. Lawrence Marine Park website.

Mouth of the Saguenay Fjord (Figure 1) — Slowdown Area (area crosshatched in red):

•Maximum speed at the mouth of the Saguenay between buoys S7 and S8 and the ferry docks between Baie-Sainte-Catherine and Tadoussac is 15 knots from May 1^st to October 31^st.

Baie Sainte-Marguerite (Figure 2) — Area Closure (red area):

•From June 21^st to September 21^st, vessels must not enter the red area, which follows a line between Cap Nord-Ouest and Cap Sainte-Marguerite.

•Special authorizations are granted only for kayaks, canoes and recreational fishermen who must travel without stopping along a corridor within 10 metres of the shore or in shallow areas.

VOLUNTARY PROTECTION MEASURES
Baie Sainte-Marguerite sector (Figure 2) — Transit Area (area crosshatched in yellow):

•From June 21^st to September 21^st, navigation in this area is recommended at a speed of between 5 and 10 knots without stopping.

The purpose of this transit area is to favour respect of the Marine Activities in the Saguenay–St. Lawrence Marine Park Regulations, since beluga whales are often present in the Baie Sainte-Marguerite sector.

INFORMATION

All incidents, including collisions with whales, must be reported without delay by calling 1-866-508-9888. For any other situation concerning a marine mammal that is either dead or in trouble, contact the Marine Mammal Emergency Response Network at 1-877-722-5346, or use VHF channel 16.

Figure 1

Figure 2

*407/26Saguenay–St. Lawrence Marine Park and Surrounding Waters – Whale Protection

(Recurrent publication of notice *407/26, originally published in the Notices to Mariners – Monthly Eastern Edition 04/2026 publication.)

The waters in and around the Saguenay–St. Lawrence Marine Park are well known for the resident endangered beluga population and the wide diversity of whales that migrate there to feed, particularly between April and November.

Regulatory protection measures

All whale species that are found in the St. Lawrence are protected under the Marine Mammal Regulations, pursuant to the Fisheries Act. Within the boundaries of the Marine Park, specific measures are set out in the Marine Activities in the Saguenay–St. Lawrence Marine Park Regulations, pursuant to the establishment of the Saguenay–St. Lawrence Marine Park Act. Any collision with a marine mammal within the Marine Park must immediately be reported to a park warden at 1-866-508-9888. For collisions that occur outside the Marine Park or for any situation involving a marine mammal that is dead or in trouble, contact the emergency network at 1-877-722-5346 or on VHF channel 16.

For more information on the Saguenay–St. Lawrence Marine Park, see notice 5C of the Notices to Mariners Annual Edition 2026.

Voluntary protection measures

Provisional measures in effect from May 1 to October 31, 2026. See map at the end of this notice.

These measures apply to merchant vessels and cruise ships between Pointe à Boisvert and Cap de la Tête au Chien to prevent collisions with whales. These measures should only be taken when they will not jeopardize navigational safety.

Caution area (yellow area): To reduce the risk of collisions with whales that can be present anywhere in this area, heightened vigilance of navigators is critical. Posting a lookout is recommended in order to increase the chances of seeing the whales and thus taking necessary measures to avoid them. If bypassing the whales is not possible, slow down and wait for the animals to move away to a distance greater than 400 metres (0.215 nautical miles) before resuming original speed. It is more difficult to see the animals at night therefore increased caution is recommended.

Slow down to 10 knots or less area (red area): To reduce the risk of collisions with whales in this feeding area, it is recommended that vessels slow down to a maximum speed through the water of 10 knots and post a lookout. It is further recommended to remain in the Laurentian Channel to the north of Île Rouge to minimize the impact of noise in a sensitive area south of this island, which is highly frequented by herds of beluga whales composed of females and young.

Area to be avoided (hatched red area): To reduce noise and the risk of collisions with whales, vessels should avoid transiting through this area which is highly frequented by blue whales, an endangered species. If the area cannot be avoided, slow down to a speed through the water of 10 knots or less.

*601/26Canadian Hydrographic Service – Nautical Charts

*602/26Canadian Hydrographic Service – Electronic Navigational Charts

*603/26Canadian Hydrographic Service – Raster Digital Charts (BSB V3)

*604/26Transport Canada - Ship Safety Bulletins #06, #07, #08, #09 and #10/2026

New Ship Safety Bulletins have recently been posted on the Transport Canada website.

To view or download these bulletins, please click on the links below:

SSB#06/2026 – Coming into force of the Vessel Traffic Services Zones Regulations (SOR/2025-275)

SSB#07/2026 – 2026 Fire Hazard Prevention Concentrated Inspection Campaign

SSB#08/2026 – Protecting killer whales in the waters of southern British Columbia, 2026

SSB#09/2026 – Safety measures concerning life-saving appliances

SSB#10/2026 – Now in force: Discharge requirements for cruise ships

Sign up for e-Bulletin to receive an e-mail notice each time a new Ship Safety Bulletin is published on our website.

Contact us at marinesafety-securitemaritime@tc.gc.ca or 1-855-859-3123 (Toll Free).

*605/26Canadian Coast Guard Publication - Amendments to the Notices to Mariners Annual Edition 2026 - Section A3, Notice 6: Ice Navigation, Routeing and Requests for Icebreaker Assistance

Page 1:
AMEND AS FOLLOWS:

1Hudson Strait and Canadian Arctic

Northern Canada Vessel Traffic Services (NORDREG) Zone
Mariners should be aware of the existence of the Northern Canada Vessel Traffic Services Zone established by the Northern Canada Vessel Traffic Services Zone Regulations. These regulations require certain vessels to report information to the Northern VTS before entering the Northern VTS zone and while navigating within it. In general, the Northern VTS zone covers the waters of Ungava Bay, Hudson Bay and James Bay and Canada’s coastal northern waters within the area enclosed by the 60^th parallel of north latitude, the 141^st meridian of west longitude and the outer limit of the exclusive economic zone; however, where the international boundary between Canada and Greenland is less than 200 nautical miles from the baselines of the territorial sea of Canada, the international boundary shall be substituted for that outer limit.
Ice operations support in Northern VTS waterways is provided by the Canadian Coast Guard. Icebreaker assistance as well as ice information and ice routing should be requested through Northern VTS. For more detailed information on this VTS system, the definition of waters it covers and the requirements to make certain reports and obtain clearance, mariners should refer to Part 3 of the Radio Aids to Marine Navigation (Atlantic, St. Lawrence, Great Lakes, Lake Winnipeg, Arctic and Pacific).

(a)For general information on ice conditions:

During Business Hours (0700-1900 Eastern Time 7-days/week):
Ice Operations:

Telephone: 514-283-2784
Email : DFO.ICEOPS-ARCGLACE.MPO@dfo-mpo.gc.ca

Ice Conditions:
Tel: (514) 283-1752

Email :ssgarctique-issarctic@ec.gc.ca

For After Hours Ice Information:

1.1Ice Regime Routeing Message

Every message required by paragraph 9(1) of the ASSPPR must contain all designators listed in Table 2. The update message required by paragraph 9(2) of the ASSPPR must include designators A to K. Every message must be addressed to TRANSPORT CANADA and be provided to one of the Marine Communications and Traffic Services Centres that is designated by the Canadian Coast Guard to receive Northern VTS reports. The intended route described by designator G of Table 2 may include more than one Shipping Safety Control Zone.

Page 3:
AMEND AS FOLLOWS:

2East Coast, Estuary and Gulf of St. Lawrence

During the winter navigation season a similar service is provided to ships intending to transit or to operate in the East Coast and Gulf of St. Lawrence waters. Access to this service can be obtained by contacting the Eastern Canada Traffic System (Eastern VTS). Eastern VTS communications procedures are specified in the current Radio Aids to Navigation publications.

*606/26Canadian Coast Guard Publication - Amendments to the Notices to Mariners Annual Edition 2026 - Section A3, Notice 7: Information about Navigation in Ice

Page 3:
AMEND AS FOLLOWS:

7.4.1Entering the Ice

The route recommended by the Ice Superintendent through the appropriate reporting system i.e. Eastern VTS or Northern VTS, is based on the latest available information and Masters are advised to adjust their course accordingly. The following notes on ship-handling in ice have proven helpful:

*607/26Canadian Coast Guard Publication - Amendments to the Notices to Mariners Annual Edition 2026 - Section A3, Notice 7A: Voyage Planning for Vessels Intending to Navigate in Canada's Northern Waters

Page 2:
AMEND AS FOLLOWS:

5Ice Advisory Service, Northern VTS Reporting, and Sails Plans

The CCG operates an ice advisory service for the support of vessels navigating in Canada’s northern waters during the navigation season. Vessels can obtain up-to-date information on ice conditions, advice on routes, aids to navigation and icebreaker support, when available and considered necessary, by contacting Northern Canada Vessel Traffic Services (Northern VTS). Weather, ice advisories, and forecasts are also broadcasted daily. Vessels subject to the Northern Canada Vessel Traffic Services Zone Regulations must report to Northern VTS as required by the regulations.

Vessels not required to report to Northern VTS should, as a minimum, file a sail plan with a responsible person. This person should be instructed to call the Joint Rescue Coordination Centre if the vessel becomes overdue. In circumstances where it is not possible to file a sail plan with a responsible person, a Sail Plan may be filed by telephone, radio or in person, with a Marine Communications and Traffic Services (MCTS) Centre. While at sea, masters and operators who have filed a sail plan are encouraged to file a daily position report during long trips. After completion of the voyage, the vessel must close (or deactivate) their sail plan. Forgetting to do so can result in an unwarranted search.

All vessels to which Part 1 of the Arctic Shipping Safety and Pollution Prevention Regulations (ASSPPR) applies must report, as per section 9 of that regulation. More information on this topic can be found in section 8 of this notice.

The CCG publication Radio Aids to Marine Navigation should be consulted for further information including details on the Northern VTS Zone, reporting, radio frequencies and times for ship/shore communications and broadcasts.

*608/26Canadian Coast Guard Publication - Amendments to the Notices to Mariners Annual Edition 2026 - Section A8, Notice 20: Safety of Offshore Exploration and Exploitation Vessels

Page 1:
AMEND AS FOLLOWS:

.4.1"Eastern VTS" for East Coast waters,
.4.2"Northern VTS" for Arctic waters,
.4.3"Marine Communications and Traffic Services Centre (MCTS) Sarnia (Sarnia Traffic)" for Canadian Great Lakes waters, and
.4.4"Western VTS" for West Coast waters; and

Page 4:

AMEND AS FOLLOWS:

5Before entering an area of exploration and exploitation

5.1Mariners are advised to obtain up-to-date position reports on drilling vessels and production installations before entering an area of exploration or exploitation. This information is available by contacting, as appropriate, Eastern VTS, Northern VTS or Western VTS via any Marine Communications and Traffic Services Centre (MCTS).

*610/26Sydney Harbour – Unlit Buoys Aid Designator Changed

Reference chart: 4266

The designator of the following unlit buoys have been permanently changed:

(G2026-046, 048, 049)

Section 1A: Temporary and Preliminary Notices

Reminder – Comment Period for Active Preliminary Notices

This is a reminder that the comment period is still open for the following active Preliminary notices:

Please refer to the Notices to Mariners - Monthly Summary of Temporary and Preliminary Notices publication for details.

No notices applicable for this edition.

No notices applicable for this edition.

*611(T)/26Cap Éternité à/to Saint Fulgence – Marine Works: Diving Operations and Wharf Construction

Reference chart: 1202
Construction and diving operations taking place Monday to Saturday from 1100 UTC to 2200 UTC at Duncan Wharf in Port-Alfred. Barges remaining on scene at 48° 20.173'N 070° 52.136'W.
Minimum wake requested.

(NW-C-2216-26)

*612(T)/26Batiscan au/to Lac Saint-Pierre – Marine Works: Wharf Construction

Reference: Notice 510(T)/26 is cancelled.
Reference chart: 1313
Repair work in progress from 1000 UTC to 2000 UTC at section 16. Safety boat on site.
Minimum wake requested.

(NW-C-1914-26)

*613(T)/26Sydney Harbour – Light Buoy Temporarily Discontinued

Reference chart: 4266

The following light buoy is temporarily discontinued:

(NW-M-0602-26)

*614/26Port de Québec – Obstruction Charted

Reference: Notice 207(T)/22 is cancelled (Chart 1316).

The power boat has been charted on charts 1315 and 1316.

No notices applicable for this edition.

*615(T)/26Whitby Harbour – Marine Works: Dredging Operations

Reference chart: 2049
Dredging operations taking place from Monday to Friday during daylight hours in Whitby Harbour.
Barges and tugs on site monitoring channel 16. Equipment is marked and lit.

*616(T)/26Georgian Bay / Baie Georgienne – Obstruction: Scientific and Subsurface Moorings

Reference: Notice 1015(T)/25 is cancelled.
Reference chart: 2201, 2261, 2282, 2291

Thiry-five surface and subsurface moorings temporarily established along the shoreline near Bruce Power at the following coordinates:

(NW-C-2142-26)

*617(T)/26Owen Sound to/à Giant's Tomb Island – ODAS Buoy Temporarily Established

Reference chart: 2283
ODAS buoy temporarily established at 44° 41.100'N 080° 36.944'W. Buoy is yellow with flashing characteristics Fl Y(5) 20s and radar reflector.

(NW-C-2270-26)

*618/26Ottawa to/à Smiths Falls – Bridge Construction Completed

Reference: Notice 813(T)/25 is cancelled (Chart 1512).
The construction operation taking place at the Patterson Creek Bridge are now completed.

*619/26Toronto to/à Hamilton – Construction Operations Completed

Reference: Notice 1219(T)/16 is cancelled (Chart 2086).

The construction operations taking place at Lakeview Water Treatment Plant are now completed.

No notices applicable for this edition.

No notices applicable for this edition.

No notices applicable for this edition.