As day fades to evening, it’s not uncommon to see boaters still out enjoying their time on the water.
However, with reduced visibility, potentially unmarked channels, and the challenge of spotting hazards in the dark, preparation, awareness, and the right equipment are critical.
Josh Belsham, Acting Training Manager from Marine Rescue Queensland (MRQ), said that while night boating can be both peaceful and practical, it should not be taken lightly.
“It significantly increases the risk of operation, and should only be undertaken once you have extensive vessel experience,” he said. “Unlike driving on the road, there are no streetlights and vessels do not use headlights. Waterways are not always clearly defined, and there can sometimes be confusion from background lights when trying to identify navigational aids.”
Josh explained that operating a vessel in unfamiliar waters at night, having limited visual reference points, or failing to properly plan a voyage, can quickly lead to mistakes.
“Vessel masters should operate to the conditions and maintain a visual watch at all times,” he said. “Debris and floating objects in the water are difficult to see at night.”
He also stressed the importance of ensuring navigation lights are in working order, carrying multiple light sources, and checking that safety equipment is in date and accessible.
“All vessels are required to show some form of lighting at night to indicate their position, and, in most cases, the direction in which they are travelling,” Josh said. “Boaties must also carry a torch between sunset and sunrise as part of their safety equipment.”
Navigational Challenges, Trip Logging and Local Waterways
Even with proper preparation, Josh explained that some waterways will still be easier to navigate than others.
“Brisbane River entrance, being a major shipping port, is akin to driving on a highway with all of the beacons set in pairs and synchronised to flash in sequence,” he said. “Smaller channels, such as the entrance to Cabbage Tree Creek, do not have all of their navigational aids in pairs, and there can be confusion from background lights on the foreshore.”
To have the best start to a safe journey – day or night, boaters should check the weather and log their trips with MRQ.
“Search times can be drastically reduced when we have a starting point. Call 131MRQ and we will connect you to your closest marine rescue service,” Josh said. “I have worked in marine training for over 27 years and have a keen interest in keeping the local boating community safe.”
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