On October 9, 2025, the Canadian Coast Guard exercised its authority under the Wrecked, Abandoned or Hazardous Vessels Act to issue an Administrative Monetary Penalty to the owner of a vessel located in Seal Cove, Newfoundland and Labrador. The owner of the vessel, Colette, a 32-foot power boat, failed to comply with a direction issued under the Act following the determination that the vessel poses a hazard to the marine environment and public safety.
Wrecked, abandoned, or hazardous vessels can pose threats to the environment, local communities and economies. The Government of Canada continues to address problem vessels and hold owners accountable.
The direction instructed the owner to conduct remediation, removal, or repair to an appropriate level, so that any physical, environmental, or other hazards are eliminated, remedied, or otherwise properly addressed. The vessel owner was issued a penalty of $15,000 and was required to pay within 30 days or to apply for a review hearing with the Transportation Appeal Tribunal of Canada by November 9, 2025.
Under the Wrecked, Abandoned or Hazardous Vessels Act, the Canadian Coast Guard is required to publicly report the fines issued to vessel owners on its website. The Canadian Coast Guard asks for the public's assistance in reporting wrecked, abandoned or hazardous vessels. Contact the Canadian Coast Guard: Wrecked, Abandoned or Hazardous Vessels.
