The owner or person in charge of a boat must make sure that

• it is in a seaworthy condition while being operated
• they have taken adequate measures to ensure the safety of the occupants.

Seaworthiness includes

• the physical condition of the boat itself
• proper loading with adequate freeboard
• carrying required and other necessary safety equipment
• displaying correct navigation lights at night.

If a boat is lacking in any of these areas the operator

• is committing an offence
• is liable to prosecution
• may be directed by an authorised officer to retrieve the boat and rectify any deficiencies before using it again.

Unseaworthiness is often due to lack of proper safety equipment.

A check card or a Transport SA safety-equipment sticker can help make sure that all necessary safety items are on board before setting out.

Free stickers are available

• from any Customer Service Centre

Safety equipment left at home or back at the boat ramp is of absolutely no use to anyone.