20 December 2018
UPDATE: 1 July 2020 Exemption for low-powered kayaks and canoes now permanent
The 2018 trial exemption for low-powered kayaks and canoes has been extended to 30 June 2020.
During the trial, Victorian paddlers who want to fit a small electric motor to their kayaks or canoes will not be required to register their craft or hold a marine licence.
The exemption applies to the owners and masters of kayaks and canoes powered by an electric motor of no more than 40 pounds thrust (1 horsepower or 750 watts). In all other respects these vessels are regulated as powerboats.
The exemption is subject to the condition that the vessel travels at a speed of no more than 5 knots at any time. There are also conditions relating to the carriage of safety equipment.
Maritime Safety Victoria invites feedback on the trial at: info@transportsafety.vic.gov.au
Read the exemption notice for kayaks and canoes PDF, 185.1 KB. The notice was published in the Victoria Government Gazette No. G 51 Thursday 20 December 2018.
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