Marine Unit

Keeping York Region’s waterways safe through year-round patrol, rescue operations, and emergency response
A man in a police uniform speaks to another man from a boat

Keeping you safe on the water

The York Regional Police Marine Unit provides specialized policing services across Lake Simcoe and all waterways within York Region. Operating year-round, the unit is responsible for marine patrol, emergency response, search and rescue, and public safety on the water and ice.

Based in Georgina, the Marine Unit works closely with frontline officers, fire services and partner agencies to ensure the safety of residents, visitors and the boating community.

Responsibilities

Marine Unit officers deliver a range of services that support both safety and enjoyment on local waterways:

  • Patrol and enforcement to improve safety
  • Search and rescue for missing or distressed people
  • Emergency response to marine incidents
  • Ice rescue and winter patrol
  • Public education and safety awareness

Year-round service

During warmer months, officers patrol busy waterways, assist boaters and respond to emergencies using a range of specialized vessels.

As conditions change, the unit continues operations on frozen waterways, responding to emergencies and promoting ice safety using winter-specific equipment.

This year-round approach ensures continuous service to the community in all conditions.

Specialized Equipment

Naawij

A 38-foot patrol vessel designed for large-scale patrol, rescue and firefighting response

Waawaatesi

A 34-foot vessel used for day-to-day patrol and incident response.

Inflatable Zodiac

A rigid-hull inflatable for rapid deployment in tight or shallow areas.

Personal watercraft

Quick access for time-sensitive calls, or in shallow or congested areas.

Snowmobiles and all-terrain vehicles

For a fast response across frozen waterways and shores.

Dawaabin

A custom airboat travels seamlessly across ice, snow and water.

Underwater Recovery Unit

The Underwater Recovery Unit (URU) is a specialized team that supports marine operations through underwater search and recovery.

Responsibilities

Highly trained police divers assist with:

  • Locating missing persons
  • Recovering evidence
  • Supporting investigations involving waterways

Specialized response

Members in the Underwater Recovery Unit operate in challenging conditions, including cold, low-visibility and ice-covered environments, using specialized diving techniques and equipment.

Their work plays an important role in supporting investigations and, often, providing closure to victims' families.

A man in a dive suit climbs a ladder
An Underwater Recovery Unit diver prepares to submerge from a dock