January 7, 2026
With summer in full-swing, more Victorians are getting out on the water and enjoying the fantastic fishing opportunities on offer across the state. Whether you’re a seasoned boater or it’s your first launch, getting out on the water is always an exciting time.
Below, we’ve shared some fantastic resources to ensure you’re prepared to go boating safely and help you plan your next boating trip.
Boating Vic
If you’re heading out on the water, a fantastic resource to plan your trip is the BoatingVic app or website.
Not only does it have a comprehensive list of boat ramps across the state, it allows users to prepare for their trip by checking weather information directly from Bureau of Meteorology, important safety alerts and how busy a ramp is through cameras, at selected ramps, in real time.
There’s even a handy ‘Report a problem‘ function when viewing a ramp on both the app and website. This allows boaters to report any issues with the cameras, provide feedback on the condition of the ramp and waterway, amenities and app/website directly with the BoatingVic team. By reporting any issues that arise, it alerts the relevant asset manager to any maintenance required at your favourite ramp.
Visit the website or search for the app via Google Play or the App Store.
Back to Basics
As you prepare to go boating, it’s vital to make sure your vessel and safety equipment are in tip-top shape and that you’re across the latest marine regulations.
If you need a straight forward guide, Safe Transport Victoria’s ‘Back to Basics’ program is a great place to start. It’s a handy guide that’ll outline everything you need to know in a simple way to ensure you’re safe and ready to get back on the water.
Keep Clear of Big Ships
If you’re heading out into Port Phillip, we’re reminding boaters to remain vigilant in the bay and ensure you’re aware of large commercial ships travelling to and from the ports of Melbourne and Geelong.
For recreational users, it is vital that you keep clear of the ship’s path and can be seen at all times. Small boats, jet skis, paddle boards are all very difficult to see from the ship’s bridge. As a reminder, vessels must not anchor or drift within the Transit Only Zone (TOZ).
If an approaching big ship is blowing it’s whistle, it’s signalling for you to move out of its way. Big ships do not have the capacity to quickly manoeuvre or stop suddenly like small boats and the ship’s speed may be faster than it appears. For your safety, as well as other water users, always ensure you steer clear of big ships.
This summer, Ports Victoria have already reported several incidents that have occurred in the shipping channels. This has included a spike in breakdowns mainly due to poor maintenance and boats fishing in the TOZ. They’re reminding boaters to that you must not anchor or drift in the TOZ and to make sure your vessel is ready to launch – that includes checking you have fresh fuel, working safety gear, and all required equipment on board.
On the water
Awareness on the water isn’t just about landing the best catch – it’s about keeping everyone safe. Wind, swell, and visibility can change in an instant.
If you’re headed out on the water this summer, it’s important that you know the rules, respect your limits, and stay alert to changing conditions.
Safe Transport Victoria’s ‘On the water‘ program aims to help boaters, fishers and paddlers stay safe, confident and prepared on Victoria’s waterways.
Boating with kids
Boating with kids is a fantastic way to create long-lasting family memories. If your kids love fishing, boating and playing in the water, it’s important to take the right steps to keep them safe.
You can’t go overboard when keeping kids safe on the water.
- Lifejackets on – no exceptions! A properly fitted lifejacket is a must, rain or shine.
- Stay within arm’s reach – because accidents happen in seconds.
- Active supervision is key – phones down, eyes on the water. The weather may change, but safety stays constant.
Find out more safety tips for boating with children via Safe Transport Victoria.
