The Barrie Police Marine Unit patrols the western part of Kempenfelt Bay - 20 square kilometres - seven days a week.
Full-time patrols reinstated this year were welcomed by the boating community.
"We've built bonds with not only other marine units but the community," said Const. Paul Matte, who is behind the wheel on this day.
"We were having people approach us saying nice to see you out here. We feel better. We feel safer."
Officers will respond outside their jurisdiction if requested.
Weather has been the biggest damper on water-related shenanigans so far this year.
Marine traffic is down.
"In all my years on this boat, this is probably the worst summer I've ever seen for weather. I've never seen so much rain and cloudy days. Wind. All of the things that don't make boating fun seem to be happening this summer," says Const. Doug Bosch.
But not this day or this week when it's been sunny and hot.
As we pass Barrie's five beautiful beaches, the officers review the rules of the lake. Towing without a spotter is one of the 'zero tolerance' tickets police issue and every vessel requires proper safety equipment.
"On boats, PFD's or life jackets have to be readily accessible, one for each occupant and they have to fit each rider," explains Matte.
"Our view is they should be worn at all times. They way I see it, it's like a seatbelt. It's not good if it's beside you. If it was our choice we would make them mandatory."
Bosch says there is a high compliance rate when it comes to life jackets.
But it's another one of their 'zero tolerance tickets' where you will 'absolutely' get charged if you don't have a PFD with you.
The main reason why people say they don't wear life jackets is because they're hot.
Police urge people to invest in newer models that are lighter, cooler and auto-inflate, like theirs.
"It's based on a combination of moisture and pressure. If you go overboard it gets moisture in it from being in the water and then the pressure increases. Those two factors will allow them to activate and it does it automatically. They're very light and comfortable," Bosch said.
Drinking on a boat is allowed but only under a list of conditions.
"Your vessel has to have a permanently affixed pump out head (washroom), permanent cooking facilities, sleeping quarters and you have to be moored - affixed to land - docked, anchored or tied off to a tree," Bosch explains. "You have to have all of those together and then you may consume alcohol lawfully. If you don't have even one of them you'll be fined."
The lack of safety equipment for vessels is the most common ticket.
As we pass a young woman sitting and having her lunch on her stand up paddle board, officers look to see if she has her required PFD and she does. We see multi-million dollar cottages and estates around the Bay.
Both officers have been on the Marine Unit for several years and Matte joined with no prior boating experience.
Community engagement is a big part of this job.
The officers spy a class of young swimmers at the government docks and head close to hand out whistles they have on board.
"People like to see the marine unit patrolling," said Bosch. "It's one of those positives in the community."
