Maritime Safety Victoria (MSV) is encouraging boaters to prepare their vessels to head back out on the water after a delayed start to the 2020-21 boating season.

Gareth Johnson, Recreational Boating Safety Manager, said preparing now means boaters will be able to head out on to the water safely this summer.

“Following the extension of the State of Emergency in April, we noticed an increase in call-outs to respond to broken down boats in May, June and July,” Johnson said.

“Most of these call-outs were due to old fuel, lack of fuel, or batteries running flat, so we’re encouraging people to check their vessels and safety equipment before heading out on the water.”

One of the easiest ways for boaters to get prepared for the return of boating is with the Knowledge Hub in MSV’s Boating Vic website and app.

“The Knowledge Hub provides comprehensive safety advice, tutorials and tips – from servicing lifejackets to maintenance checklists and advice on what to look out for when buying a second-hand vessel.”

Boating Vic has boat ramp cameras around Port Phillip and Western Port to help boaters choose which launching location they want to go to before making the trip.

Boating Vic also provides users with real-time weather forecasts and warnings for more than 400 Victorian boat ramps and launching facilities.

Discover Boating Vic at boating.vic.gov.au or download the Boating Vic app.

Ramp camera roll-out

MSV is asking boaters where they want to see boat ramp cameras next. Have your say at tiny.cc/boatingvicrampcams by Sunday 1 November 2020.

Restrictions

Metropolitan Melbourne has entered the Second Step towards reopening. For marine businesses with COVIDSafe Plans, changes to restrictions mean that boat maintenance is now permitted with marine and specialist mechanics able to operate as required for safe operation of boats for scheduled and logbook services and inspections.

Boat ramps and jetties are open, however gathering and physical distancing restrictions still apply. Check the current coronavirus (COVID-19) guidance on the Better Boating Victoria website.