Cobourg’s new Canadian Coast Guard rescue station is officially open.
On Friday, Oct. 17, 2025, Bay of Quinte MP Chris Malette, on behalf of Minister of National Defence David J. McGuinty, was in Cobourg for the official opening announcement for the Canadian Coast Guard’s new search and rescue station at Cobourg Harbour.
“The Canadian Coast Guard search and rescue station is a vital asset on Lake Ontario, playing a key role in ensuring the safety of boaters and mariners throughout our region,” said Malette.
“This new station will strengthen the Canadian Coast Guard’s ability to respond quickly and effectively in times of emergency to ensure our community feels protected and safe while on the water.”
The new station represents an investment of $6.8 million.
“It features a large workshop to carry out vessel repairs, maintenance and winter storage,” said officials. “The station has new accommodations, including five bedrooms, a kitchen, large common areas, laundry room, and (an) exercise area for crews who live onsite while on duty.”
The Cobourg station, located on the north shore of Lake Ontario, is one of nine Canadian Coast Guard-operated search and rescue stations across the Great Lakes. Canadian Coast Guard teams are typically tasked with saving lives and helping mariners in distress from April to December.
Ensuring personnel are equipped with modern facilities and tools needed to carry out life-saving work is a top priority, reiterated government officials.
The modernized station also features a new space known as the “ready room” where crews have quick and easy access to equipment for search and rescue operations.
“Similar to a fire station, this area provides dedicated storage and preparation space for quick access to gear and equipment to allow crews to depart quickly,” explained officials.
It also features high-efficiency construction materials and solar panels and relies on minimal energy inputs coming from electricity, and as a result, the building emits zero emissions.
“The new state-of-the-art Cobourg search and rescue station is a welcome upgrade to the Canadian Coast Guard fleet,” said McGuinty. “Its new technology and features will provide a better facility for the crews who keep Canadians safe, ensuring they have everything they need to carry out their essential lifesaving work on the Great Lakes.”
Initially, the Cobourg station was the first rescue station on the Great Lakes, first established in 1872.
Nationally, the Canadian Coast Guard responds to more than 6,000 calls for marine help every year.