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The Insurance Council and Maritime New Zealand (MNZ) have developed a number of simple guidelines for boat operators to ensure their safety while out on the water.

Safe Operation

The biggest risk for boaties in crowded waters is COLLISION.

Collisions are common and preventable. MNZ confirms that there are more boating collisions reported every year than any other kind of boating accident.

Who is Responsible for Boat Safety?

• Legally the skipper of a boat is responsible for the safe operation of his/her craft, regardless of who is on the helm.
• Every skipper must do everything possible to avoid a collision
• If there is a collision, both skippers are at fault - there is no such thing as "in the right".
• All collisions must be reported to MNZ

International Rules on General Navigation

All ships, yachts, and powerboats (including personal watercraft such as jet skis) must comply with the collision prevention rules.

Many collisions could be avoided if all boaties followed the international rules on general navigation which include passing other vessels, manoeuvring, and speed limits.

The rules are:

• Power boats always give way to sailing boats
• Power boats crossing give way to all boats on the starboard (right)
• Sailing boats on same tack, the windward boat must keep clear
• Overtaking boat keeps clear including sailing boats overtaking power boats

These rules apply to all coastal waters, including lakes, rivers and harbours.

Avoiding Collisions

The single most important thing that can be done to avoid a collision is to keep a very good lookout for other boats that are in close vicinity and where they are heading.

This will give the operator time to decide what is the best action to take to avoid a collision.

Possible actions are:

• Stop the boat
• Slow down, so that the change in speed is clear to the other vessel
• Alter course to pass astern of the other boat, but avoid turning to port (left). Make the course change large enough to be obvious to the other boat
• If meeting head on, alter course to starboard (right) and pass port to port (left)
• Make intentions clear to the other boaties - don't assume they know what they are doing.

Lifejackets

Always carry enough lifejackets for all passengers, including the skipper.

Wear them at all times.

Insurance

Boat insurance is as important as motor vehicle insurance.

It provides financial protection, not only for loss or damage to your own boat, but also from being liable for damage to other vessels and property. With many boats valued in excess of $100,000, a collision or similar misadventure can result in skippers being liable for large sums of money. Liability for damage to vessels has the potential to run into millions of dollars.

Many Insurance Council members provide pleasure boat insurance.

Protect Against Theft

Boat theft in the Auckland region and around the country has never been higher according to Insurance Council records.

Theft of accessories such as outboard motors, life rafts and electronic equipment is a growing problem.

Insurance can offer financial protection against theft. However boat owners need to take reasonable care and comply with various policy conditions relating to security.

Theft Prevention Tips

When the boat is not in use:

• Secure away electronic systems such as navigational equipment - GPS and portable radar if possible
• Auxiliary motors should be removed and secured in a locked building
• Use an approved locking device for outboard motors
• Use approved boat trailer locks
• Secure the boat in locked building if possible
• Install an electronic engine immobiliser

 

 

 

 

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