Boating is one of Australia's fastest growing pastimes. With more boats than ever in our waterways, the risk of collisions is also on the rise.
Theft is a problem too. Boats are obvious targets because they often have little or no security. Thieves will either try to make off with the whole boat, or target items left inside; such as radios, fish finders or depth sounders. These items are usually portable and easy to trade or sell.
Did you know?
- Collisions account for around half of all boat insurance claims. One of the most common factors is lack of judgement on the part of the skipper
- It's rare for moored boats to be stolen, but not uncommon for trailers carrying boats left in the street to be towed away by thieves
- Almost 8 out of 10* recreational boats are used for fishing, and around one third of the Australian population is involved in recreational fishing in some way**
* Source: Boating Industry Association of Victoria
** Source: Australian Government Department of the Environment and Heritage
Tips for safe boating
If you're the skipper, give yourself plenty of time to react. Slow down and keep a suitable distance from other boats and jetties, the shore and people in the water.
- Keep a proper lookout
- Operate at a safe speed
- Follow the navigation markers
- Stay within the boating channel
- Observe distance-off requirements
- Know the give-way rules
- Be aware of swimmers
- Use navigation lights at dusk and dawn
- Observe the boating speed limit
Tips for towing
- Allow an extra 20 metres stopping distance between your car and the vehicle in front
- Travel at a lower speed when going down hills
- Practise reversing in vacant car parks to become familiar with this manoeuvre on boat ramps
- Always check the trailer lights, indicators and security chain before heading off
Lock up your boat
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Install a boat lock
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If your boat is on a mooring, check it regularly during the winter months, or arrange for a friend to do this for you
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If you trailer your boat, try to park behind a lockable gate and fit a locking device to the wheels
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Securely fasten or remove valuable items from your boat when unattended
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Don't leave any items in your boat if it is unattended for long periods
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Engrave your licence number on motors and portable equipment and keep a record of model and serial numbers
Further links
safeboating.org.au is a useful guide to safe recreational boating in Australia and New Zealand.
The information on this website is for general guidance only and should not be relied upon as professional advice on managing specific safety risks.