Victorians visiting other states or territories should contact the relevant local authority prior to travel to ensure compliance with safety equipment and other operating requirements.

Wear a lifejacket

In NSW, appropriate lifejackets must be carried for everyone on board (in most cases) and the must be worn in a range of situations on different types and sizes of vessels and at times of heightened risk. For example, children under 12 years old must wear a lifejacket at all times on vessels less than 4.8 metres and in open areas of vessels under 8 metres while underway.

If using inflatable lifejackets, they must be serviced at least annually or in accordance with the manufacturers’ instructions.

Additional lifejacket rules apply. To find out more visit rms.nsw.gov.au/ lifejackets

Keep a safe distance and speed

All vessels must travel at a safe speed for the prevailing conditions and keep a safe distance from people in the water, other vessels, structures and the shore at all times. You must also observe any signposted speed limits.

In NSW, when travelling in a power- driven vessel at six knots or faster, you must keep at least 30 metres from other vessels, structures and the shore. When driving any vessel at any speed, you must keep at least 60 metres from people in the water and any dive flag. If these are not possible, a safe distance and speed must be maintained.

Other safe navigation tips include:

• Keeping a proper lookout at all times
  
• Using appropriate navigation lights at night
  
• Keep to the right side in rivers and channels. On lakes, the direction of travel is anti-clockwise unless otherwise stated.

If in doubt, consult the relevant waterway manager and follow authorised signage.

Personal watercraft

In NSW, you must hold a PWC licence to drive a PWC. Operators and passengers must wear approved lifejackets at all times. PWC use is prohibited between sunset and sunrise in NSW.

Go easy on the drink

Both states have strict limits on blood alcohol levels for recreational boat operators. Don’t go boating under the influence of alcohol.

In NSW, the maximum permissible blood alcohol limits are 0.00 for operators aged under 18 years and under 0.05 for those over 18 years.

When engaged in tow sports, alcohol limits apply to drivers, observers and everyone being towed.

Tow safe

Everyone being towed must wear an appropriate lifejacket and no more than three people may be towed simultaneously.

In NSW, observers must hold a boat or PWC driving licence or be 16 years of age or older.

Safe distance requirements apply at any speed to both the vessel and the person being towed. Towing is prohibited between sunset and sunrise.

Consider the impact of your vessel’s wash on other people and the environment. Ensure your wash does not have a dangerous, damaging or unreasonable impact.

For more information contact Roads and Maritime Services rms.nsw.gov.au maritime or call 13 12 36