Top Safety Tips Every New Boat Licence Holder Should Know

Getting your boat licence in Queensland is an exciting step towards enjoying the water with freedom and confidence. But holding a licence also comes with responsibility. Whether you’re taking out a tinny, a cruiser, or a jet ski, safety should always come first. 

Here are the top safety tips every new boat licence holder & existing licence holder should know/remember.

Know the Rules of the Water

Just like driving on the road, there are rules on the water to prevent accidents. Some key points include:

• Give way rules – know when you must give way to other vessels, especially when crossing paths or approaching head-on.

• Speed limits – always observe speed restrictions in harbours, marinas, and near swimmers or anchored vessels.

• Alcohol limits – the same blood alcohol limit applies on the water as it does on the road (0.05 for most adults).

Tip: Make sure you understand navigation markers, buoys, and signs – they are your “road signs” on the water.

Carry the Right Safety Gear

In Queensland, there are legal requirements for safety equipment depending on where you are boating. Essential items include:

• Lifejackets – a properly fitted lifejacket for every person on board.

• Flares – required when operating in open waters.

• Anchor and line – strong enough for your boat and conditions.

• Fire extinguisher – particularly for boats with enclosed engine compartments.

• Communication devices – such as a marine radio or mobile phone in a waterproof case.

Tip: Always check your gear before heading out – it’s useless if it doesn’t work when you need it.

Perform a Pre-Departure Check

Before launching, run through a quick checklist:

• Fuel tank topped up?

• Engine running smoothly?

• Battery charged?

• Safety gear on board and accessible?

• Weather and tide conditions checked?

A five-minute check can prevent major issues once you’re on the water.

Respect Weather and Water Conditions

Queensland weather can change quickly. Always:

• Check forecasts and tide charts before departure.

• Avoid going out in conditions beyond your skill level.

• Know safe places to shelter if the weather turns.

Remember: calm mornings can turn into rough afternoons, especially on coastal waters.

Avoid Common Mistakes New Boaters Make

Even after passing the test, beginners often:

• Underestimate how quickly conditions can change.

• Forget to log a trip plan or tell someone where they’re going.

• Misjudge stopping distances or turning circles.

• Fail to distribute weight properly on board, which can affect stability.

Being aware of these pitfalls will help you avoid them.

Keep Learning and Practising

Your licence is the first step. Real experience on the water will build your confidence. Consider:

• Taking short trips before tackling longer journeys.

• Boating with more experienced friends or family.

• Continuing with advanced training to build your skills

Feel free to add or change anything within the above information 

Get Your Boat or Jet Ski Licence in Brisbane with iLicence

Learning to stay safe on the water starts with the right training. At iLicence, we make getting your boat licence or jet ski licence in Brisbane simple, professional, and stress-free. Our experienced instructors provide hands-on training that covers both the theory and the practical skills you need to be confident on the water.

Whether you’re brand new to boating or upgrading your skills, we’ll guide you every step of the way. With flexible course times, friendly support, and a focus on real-world safety, iLicence is Brisbane’s trusted choice for marine licence training.

Ready to get started? Book your boat or jet ski licence course with iLicence today and enjoy the freedom of the water with confidence