Programs and Services

As a Special Operating Agency of Fisheries and Oceans Canada, the Canadian Coast Guard (CCG):

• provides services and support to mariners;
• helps protect marine and freshwater environments; and
• helps maintain Canada’s sovereignty over one of the largest networks of maritime highways in the world.

The CCG also provides vital support for marine science work, as well as for other government departments, agencies and international organizations involved in marine safety, conservation and commerce.

The Canadian Coast Guard operates the following programs:

Aids to Navigation — The CCG operates a network of navigational aids to ensure marine safety, protect the marine environment and support maritime commerce.

Environmental Response — The CCG is responsible for ensuring the cleanup of ship-sourced spills of oil and other pollutants into Canadian waters.

Icebreaking — CCG icebreaking services help vessels make their way more safely in ice-covered Canadian waters.

Information for Mariners — The Canadian Coast Guard has several programs that provide information and services to mariners, playing a key role in managing Canada’s waterways.

Marine Communications and Traffic Services (MCTS) — The CCG operates MCTS centres that provide communications and traffic information services to mariners and to the public.

Search and Rescue (SAR) — The CCG is part of a search and rescue network led by the Department of National Defence. SAR services are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

Waterways Management — CCG services help waterway managers ensure that navigation channels are developed and used safely, efficiently and in an environmentally-responsible manner.

For more information on programs and services and related levels of service, go to: Levels of Service.