Business Details
42 Years
experience
Emergency
services
24/7 Marine Assistance Across Canada
Malaspina Water Taxi has been a trusted name in Canadian boating safety since 1984. Founded by Captain John MacDonald on Bowen Island, BC, we pioneered marine assistance as Canada's first tow service for recreational boaters. With over 30 vessels operating across British Columbia, Ontario, Newfoundland, and the Turks and Caicos, we combine decades of local waterway expertise with cutting-edge technology like our GPS-enabled mobile app. Our Transport Canada-licensed captains provide 24/7 emergency response, backed by partnerships with the Canadian Coast Guard and a commitment to exceeding industry safety standards.As a Canadian-owned company, we prioritize community engagement through initiatives like our Ripple Program and environmental partnerships with organizations like Living Oceans Society. Our team's extensive training, real-time weather integration, and personalized dispatch service ensure boaters receive rapid, reliable assistance whenever needed.
Services
Marine towing
Fuel delivery
Jump starts
Minor repairs
Fog shepherding
GPS assistance
Boat recovery
Emergency dispatch
Details
- Year established: 1984
Highlights and features
- 40+ years of Canadian marine assistance experience
- Largest on-water towing fleet in Canada
- 24/7 dispatch with real-time GPS tracking
- Transport Canada-licensed captains with local waterway expertise
- Community-focused with environmental stewardship programs
What people say
Fast response times
Knowledgeable local captains
Reliable 24/7 service
GPS app works great
Peace of mind boating
Services
Marine Towing
Our 24/7 marine towing service responds to boating emergencies across Canada. With over 30 vessels strategically positioned in BC, Ontario, and Newfoundland, we provide rapid response to stranded boaters. Our Transport Canada-certified captains use specialized equipment to safely tow vessels to the nearest port of safety, operating under strict safety protocols that exceed Coast Guard standards.
Fuel Delivery
Emergency fuel delivery service keeps boaters moving when they run out of gas. Available through our membership plans, this service delivers necessary fuel quantities to get vessels safely to the nearest marina. Our captains carry appropriate safety equipment to handle fuel transfers safely in various marine conditions.
GPS Assistance
Our free mobile app provides real-time GPS coordinates to dispatch, ensuring rapid response. The app integrates Environment Canada weather data and tide information from Fisheries & Oceans, helping boaters make informed decisions while enabling precise location tracking during emergencies.
Minor Repairs
Our captains perform essential on-scene repairs for common boating issues. Services include fixing minor engine problems, replacing broken belts, and addressing electrical system failures. This service helps boaters avoid costly salvage operations by resolving issues before they escalate.
Fog Shepherding
Specialized navigation assistance during low-visibility conditions. Experienced captains guide vessels safely through foggy conditions using local waterway knowledge and advanced navigation tools. This service prevents groundings and collisions in challenging weather environments.
People
Captain Melissa Curtis
Marine Assistant
Experienced boating professional with extensive knowledge of Vancouver Island waterways. Specializes in emergency response and recreational boating safety. Active in local maritime community initiatives.
Captain Scott Flemming
Senior Captain
25-year resident of Mudge Island with deep understanding of coastal BC marine conditions. Volunteer with local emergency services and expert in wildlife observation during rescue operations.
Questions
Why do I need C-Tow if I have boat insurance?
C-Tow memberships have no deductibles and cover emergency response costs for less than insurance deductibles. We get you to safety while insurance handles major damage claims.
What areas do you cover?
We cover BC waters from Vancouver to northern Vancouver Island, Ontario's Great Lakes regions, Newfoundland's Conception Bay, and Turks & Caicos for Admiral members.
How quickly do you respond?
Our goal is 30-minute response time, though actual time varies with weather and location. We provide regular updates during response.
Do you offer 24-hour service?
Yes, our 24/7 dispatch center operates around the clock with live personnel answering every call for immediate assistance.
How does the mobile app help?
The free app provides real-time GPS coordinates, Environment Canada weather data, tide information, and one-click emergency assistance with location tracking.
What happens if you can't respond?
In rare cases of high demand, we arrange alternative assistance and cover costs at $175/hour. Our network ensures help is always available.
