Boating basics

On this page:

The basics

Skipper responsibilities

Sharing the water

Manage the risks that come with being out on the water

Carry essential safety gear

Make sure you have all the key safety equipment on board.

Check and maintain your gear

Do regular checks and maintenance of onboard equipment.

Check and maintain your boat

Take time to do regular checks and maintenance on your boat.

One final check before you go

Get into the habit of doing a final check before you head out.

Your responsibilities as a skipper

Every type of boat must have a skipper

A skipper is legally responsible for:

• the safety of the boat
• all the people who are on board

Read about skipper responsibilities

Sharing the water with others

When out on the water, every skipper must:

• Respect the rules on water

• Operate safely in your region

Expert tip: The most at risk group out on the water 

Our boating expert talks about the group most at risk on the water and what they can do to ensure they come home safe.