It is easy to be lulled by the sensation of floating on the water, but we shouldn’t neglect paying attention to your surroundings. Especially if you venture out on the St. Lawrence River, there is a risk of hypothermia*, rapidly changing water levels and tides, changing weather conditions, etc.
It's best to be well equipped for a trip on the water: a lifejacket/ PFD, a whistle and, ideally, a floating rope, a regulation paddle board with a foot attachment, swimwear and, if necessary, a wetsuit.
* Watch out for the first signs of the effects of cold water: shivering, loss of coordination, slowing down, numbness in hands and feet.