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Digital signage boat detained by Vancouver authorities

Vancouver authorities are investigating a boat, which is sailing with a large digital signage billboard attached to it. The authorities are currently detaining the boat until it is registered.

April 1, 2016

Vancouver authorities are investigating a boat, which is sailing with a big digital signage billboard attached to it, according areport by The Vancouver Sun. The boat is owned by Burke Billboards, "an aboriginal-owned new venture corporation establishing itself as a premier outdoor advertising organization," according to the company's website.

The boat is 20 meters wide and the digital signage billboard is 3.7 meters high and 12 meters wide.

"The city is looking at its authority to act in respect to the digital sign given the jurisdiction of the federal government over navigation and shipping in False Creek and English Bay," the city said in a statement. Transport Canada is currently detaining the boat, but not due to its digital signage.

"The vessel has been detained pending its registration and subsequent certification as a commercial vessel," Transport Canada said in a statement.

The company argues that its boat will target half a million people who visit the Granville Market annually. It also offers advertising during city events such as the Celebration of Lights Fireworks Festival and the Dragon Boat Festival.