Wrecked, abandoned, or hazardous vessels can pose threats to the environment, local communities and economies. Through the Oceans Protection Plan, the Government of Canada continues to take action to address problem vessels and ensure owner accountability.
On June 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 the fishing vessel Exploits Harvester in Burin, Newfoundland and Labrador.
The Canadian Coast Guard determined that the vessel posed a hazard to the marine environment and public safety. The vessel owner was issued a penalty of $13,500 and was required to pay within 30 days or to apply for a review hearing with the Transportation Appeal Tribunal of Canada by July 9, 2025. The penalty was issued after the owner failed to comply with a direction issued by the Canadian Coast Guard.
The direction instructed the owner to relocate and stabilize the vessel in order to conduct remediation, removal, or repair to an appropriate level, to ensure that any physical, environmental, or other hazards are eliminated, remedied, or otherwise properly addressed.
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
