This article shares practical tips from the SBS Audio podcast Head Above Water, hosted by comedians Suren Jayemanne and Sashi Perera.
In this episode they speak to Neil Patchett, General Manager of the Boating Industry Association of Australia, to find out some practical boating safety advice for beginners.
- Should you check the weather before you go boating?
- Do you need to wear a life jacket on a boat?
- What do you do if your boat is capsized?
- What is the role of the skipper on a boat?
- Can you drink alcohol when out on a boat?
- Is boating expensive?
- What is the Blue Mind Theory? - The mental health benefits of boating
- Final checklist for new boaters
Should you check the weather before you go boating?
Australia’s weather can change quickly, especially around the coast. It's important to check both the weather and the swell conditions and make sure they suit your ability and the boat you are in.
If in doubt, don’t go out.Neil Prachett - Boating Industry Association of Australia
Even if you're just a passenger, being aware of conditions helps you stay safe and confident on the water. Use official weather apps like the Bureau of Meteorology or Marine Rescue apps for up-to-date information.
Do you need to wear a life jacket on a boat?
Life jackets save lives, and wearing one is required by law in many situations. You’ll need to check your state or territory rules but generally if you are on a boat less than 4.8 metres long you should be wearing a life jacket.
- All boats must carry enough life jackets for everyone on board.
- You can choose between foam jackets (low-maintenance) or inflatable jackets (more comfortable, but need yearly servicing).
- Newer designs are lightweight, comfortable, and easy to wear for long periods.
“Life jackets today are highly wearable and can be worn all day. They’ve come a long way from the old ‘block of cheese’ style.” Neil Prachett - Boating Industry Association of Australia.
Canoeing down the Nymboida River in the Northern Rivers Region of New South Wales. Credit: Matthew Micah Wright/Getty Images
What do you do if your boat is capsized?
The most important safety item is the vessel itself. If you are capsized or submerged, it’s always best to stay with the vessel. Being close to the boat makes you more visible for rescuers so you can be found, and it can also be used as a floatation device.
What is the role of the skipper on a boat?
When you're on a boat, the skipper (boat operator) is legally responsible for everyone’s safety.
If someone invites you on their boat, don’t be afraid to ask the following questions:
- “Do you have life jackets for everyone?”
- “Is the safety equipment up to date?”
These aren’t rude questions—they’re smart ones.
If you are interested in becoming a skipper yourself, in most Australian states, you’ll need a boat driver licence if you want to operate a powerboat above 10 knots. Getting your licence is a great way to build confidence and enjoy Australia’s waters independently.
Can you drink alcohol when out on a boat?
Rules for alcohol consumption on boats are similar to those on the roads. The skipper must stay under blood alcohol concentration (BAC) legal limits. This varies according to age and the type of vessel. Generally adults must be under 0.05 per cent BAC but this varies according to age, type of vessel and which state or territory you are in.
Passengers can drink, but it’s wise to stay sober enough to help in an emergency.
Is boating expensive?
You don’t need a luxury yacht to enjoy Australia’s waterways.
- A second-hand kayak can cost a few hundred dollars.
- Many local clubs offer rentals or affordable community programs.
- Sailing clubs and training providers welcome beginners.
Neil’s own first boat? A tiny $50 dinghy he shared with his siblings—and a lifetime of memories.
What is the Blue Mind Theory? The mental health benefits of boating
One of the most powerful takeaways from the episode is how healing and joyful boating can be—especially for newcomers navigating the stress of settling into a new country.
Whether you're paddling in a quiet lake or cruising on the ocean, boating can help you:
- Relax and unwind
- Connect with new people
- Build confidence around water
- Feel more at home in Australia
It literally activates your feel-good hormones—dopamine, serotonin, oxytocin. That’s why people feel better when they're around or on the water.Neil Patchett
This benefit is known as the Blue Mind Theory. Marine biologist, Wallace J. Nichols, coined the term after compiling scientific research to prove that being close to water can have a positive effective on physical and mental health.
Final checklist for new boaters
Before you go out on the water:
- Check the weather forecast
- Make sure life jackets are available and worn properly
- Know who the skipper is and trust their experience
- Understand safety procedures and emergency plans
- Drink responsibly and be ready to help if needed
Useful Resources:
- Boating Industry Association (BIA)
- Boating and marine in NSW
- Boating safety in QLD
- Recreational boating - Safe Transport VIC
- Marine forecasts – Bureau of Meteorology
Credits
Executive Producer: Kellie Riordan
Supervising Producer: Vanessa Wiltshire
Producer: Liam Riordan
Sound recordist: Sean Holden
Sound designer: Ryan Pemberton
Production Manager: Ann Chesterman
Artwork by Tonia Composto (The Illustration Room)
SBS Commissioning Editors: Janine Googan, Roza Germian and Maram Ismail
We acknowledge Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples as the First Australians and Traditional Custodians of the land on which this show was made.
