National Boating Week: So many ways to get on the water

Cruising or simply messing around in boats is the obvious conclusion, however, sport also plays a large part in fostering engagement with boating.

Whilst sport conjures thoughts of competition, it's leisure, entertainment or simply soaking in the health benefits that dominate boating activity.

Let’s be clear, competitive boating is a real thing and much loved by many. Sailing, powerboating, water-skiing, paddling and fishing all have a big part in the world of competitive recreational boating.

For many, sailing is their entry to recreational boating. If you ask boaters about their youth, many will tell you it consisted of sailing classes and time with friends in a sailing club. Sailing is a fun, safe, accessible and affordable sport that welcomes participation from people of all backgrounds, ages and abilities.

There are many different ways to get started in sailing, with programs like Australian Sailing’s Discover Sailing program providing a range of opportunities for you to continue sailing at clubs as you develop your skills, experience and confidence.

Sailing clubs can be found on the coast, rivers and inland lakes in some spectacular locations around the country. There are almost 400 sailing clubs around Australia with more than 60,000 registered club members and 100,000 people regularly participating in the sport.

You do not need to own a boat to enjoy sailing. There are clubs that provide boats and boat owners looking for crew. You do not need to be a member to get started in sailing because all the Discover Sailing programs are accessible for people who are not members of clubs.

Fishing is also popular as a recreational sport. The Australian National Sports Fishing Association says about 3.5 million Australians go fishing for sport and recreation every year.

That makes recreational and sportfishing a huge industry; one of the biggest in the country and one of the largest single outdoor participatory sports and recreations.

This is unsurprising with visitors to boating events around the country saying that fishing is one of the primary reasons they go boating.

For those with a little more energy and a focus on health as an interest, paddling and kayaking have seen the sport using non-powered vessels boom over the last 10 years.

Stand-up paddleboards and kayaking have become popular ways to keep fit and connect with the environment and nature.

No matter your gender, age or level of mobility, there is something for everyone when it comes to boating.

Boating and the joys and benefits associated with it are being celebrated Australia-wide during National Boating Week.

For more information, visit DiscoverBoating.com.au, or on social media via Facebook, Instagram, YouTube and Twitter.