Trial waves motor licence for kayakers and canoers

VICTORIAN paddlers who want to fit a small electric motor to their kayaks or canoes will not be required to register their craft or hold a marine licence as of this year.

The trial aims to reduce red tape for low-powered vessels travelling up to 5 knots, while continuing to ensure safety.

Running until December 31, the trial applies to kayaks and canoes with electric motors of up to 40 pounds thrust (or 1 horsepower or 750 watts).

Maritime Safety Victoria (MSV) director Peter Corcoran said that if the trial showed that the safety of paddlers was not compromised in any way, the exemption was likely to become permanent.

“This will also enable an easier process for people taking their paddle craft interstate.”

The trial is in response to a recommendation from the Red Tape Commissioner to bring Victorian requirements closer to New South Wales, Queensland, South Australia and Tasmania.

The benefits of motor use are that kayakers and other paddlers can conserve energy and have some assistance in getting home after their trip.

However, Mr Corcoran urged paddlers not to relax their attention to safety.

“Maritime Safety Victoria reminds paddlers that the addition of a motor presents different risks while operating their craft,” he said.

These risks include:

• Incorrectly fitting a motor that results in the hull no longer being watertight
• Travelling beyond competence and capability levels, and
• Overestimating the capacity of the kayak to handle conditions further offshore that may change without warning.

Paddlers must comply with the applicable regulations on all Victorian waters, including:

• Wearing a lifejacket
• Carrying a bailer or bilge pump, as well as a waterproof buoyant torch
• Having means of calling for help such as a mobile phone, and
• Having an alternative means of propulsion, such as a spare paddle.

Safety equipment requirements and guidance on how to fit a motor is available online at transportsafety.vic.gov.au/msv/paddling.

To give feedback on the trial, email MSV at [email protected].