Safe boating starts with preparation. Before heading out on the water, get your vessel serviced and complete the boat safety checklist. Taking steps to ensure your vessel is seaworthy and equipped for the journey can help keep you and your passengers safe on the water.

Make sure your vessel is fit for purpose

A safe vessel is the foundation of a safe trip. Inspect your boat, check all systems, and ensure it’s suitable for the conditions you plan to navigate. If your vessel is not fit for purpose or is unsafe, Safe Transport Victoria may direct the vessel not to be operated on Victorian waters.

The Marine Safety Regulations say that a boat should be:

  1. Able to keep water out.
  2. Not have fuel leaking from it.
  3. Have a working steering system.
  4. Use a working ventilation system.
  5. Have insulation to prevent fires.
  6. Keep things that help it float in good shape.
  7. Have engine kill switches that work.
  8. Use navigation lights the right way.

Checklist for maintaining your vessel

  • Inspect propeller nut and pin
  • Check for water and fuel leaks
  • Ensure bung is suitable and in good condition
  • Ensure bilges are clean and dry
  • Check reserve buoyancy for condition
  • Test steering for stiffness
  • Check wiring
  • Check and clean fuel filter
  • Clean cooling system passages
  • Replace outboard pull cord if fraying.

Ensure your vessel’s batteries are fully charged

  • Top up battery cells with distilled water and check each cell with a hydrometer
  • The battery should be charged but never overcharged
  • The terminals, cables and casings should be kept clean
  • Test all electrical equipment operating from the battery such as radios, gauges, power tilt, navigation lights.

Fuel management and refuelling

  • Allow one-third for outbound travel, one-third for return trip and keep one-third in reserve
  • Always replace old fuel after periods of inactivity
  • Inspect fuel lines, manual priming bulb and connections for cracks, leaks, etc
  • Inspect the fuel tank for cracks or corrosion
  • Always check for fuel smells and ventilate your vessel well before starting the engine
  • Do not go boating with old fuel.
  • No passengers when refuelling or restarting after refuelling
  • Install and use blowers on inboard engines

Is the vessel unsafe?

A vessel is an unsafe vessel if the operation of the vessel may endanger any person because of

  • the condition or equipment of the vessel
  • the manner in which the cargo and equipment on the vessel is stowed or secured
  • the nature of the cargo
  • the overloading of the vessel with persons or cargo
  • the number or qualifications of the vessel’s crew
  • the absence of marine safety equipment that is required under the regulations to be carried or installed on the vessel.

It is advised that vessels, and equipment should be inspected by a competent marine person such as a surveyor or similar at regular intervals and when the vessel is sold or purchased.

It is advised that motors and other serviced equipment are serviced either in accordance with their service requirements listed in manuals etc. or at regular intervals which ensure they are maintained and continue to operate safely.

Vessel inspection and surveying resources

Listed below are links to resources which provide contact details of accredited and/or competent marine surveyors and practitioners.

Australian Maritime Safety Authority

Australasian Institute Of Marine Surveyors

Boating Industry Association of Victoria

Note: ST Vic do not endorse any particular organisation.

Fire prevention

Vigilance prevents fire incidents. Regular inspections, proper maintenance, and professional servicing keep your vessel safe.

Following these guidelines can help minimise the risk of fire incidents on boats and contribute to safer boating experiences.

Ski boats equipped with inboard petrol-powered engines pose the highest risk of fire.

Older vessels with worn-out electrical and automotive components are also prone to fire-related incidents.

Installing converted car engines or non-marinized engines in boats increases the likelihood of fire or explosion, especially when boat owners attempt to modify their boat themselves or employ unqualified technicians for the job.

Boats that are not in use for extended periods of time should be inspected for fire hazards before being used again.

To reduce the risk of fire, it’s important not to attempt marine electrical work yourself as improperly installed electrical components are more likely to cause fires on board your vessel.

Seek the services of a qualified and reputable professional for any electrical work on your vessel.

Ensure that the engine compartment is properly ventilated before starting the vessel.

Be vigilant throughout the day as engine fires may occur even after the first start-up.