Vic boater report surprises

The typical Victorian boater is a middle-aged male, who goes out on the water at least once a month and loves his fishing, reveals a new state-wide report unveiled by Maritime Safety Victoria (MSV).

The Victorian boating behaviour 2014 report, commissioned by MSV and conducted by Ipsos Research, also shows that more than two in five boaters frequent inland waterways, countering the long-held myth that Port Phillip Bay is the epicentre of recreational-boating activity.

Paul Corkill, spokesperson for the maritime regulator, said the report provides invaluable insight into the behaviour and attitudes of recreational boaters.

"This is the first time that research has been undertaken into boater behaviour and attitudes in Victoria, and this will help us and other advocates shape initiatives that promote on-water safety. The report also makes interesting reading not just for those whose core business is safety but also the broader boating community.

"The surprisingly high rate of boating on inland waters busts a myth that all boating occurs on Port Phillip Bay. It's also interesting to learn that boaters travels almost 100 kilometres on average to launch their vessel.

"In terms of safety practices, it is pleasing to see that the vast majority of boaters are doing the right thing. This includes checking the weather before they go out, making sure they have the safety equipment and telling someone where they are going and when they should be expected back," Mr Corkill said.

The report has also found that:
    •    36 per cent of boaters were willing to pay higher registration if the funds were used to improve boating infrastructure
    •    nearly half of boaters (45 per cent) go boating with one other person
    •    over two thirds (69 per cent) have owned a boat for more than 10 years and a similar proportion owned an open type of vessel.

Download the full report of Victorian boater habits here.