Learning a New Sport

Posted on: 22 July 2020

People who had the privilege of watching a boat draw into a harbour will agree that it is a mesmerising sight. Recreational and sporting marine services are on the rise because of business prospects. If you are thinking of venturing into the provision of marine services, you can cut yourself a niche in the recreational and sports segments. However, you must consider different aspects beforehand. This article highlights essential considerations when venturing into the marine recreational and sports business.

Safety

The safety of both crew and patrons is the hallmark of a boating service. Like any other transportation medium, you must ensure that vessels being used for recreational and sporting activities meet industry safety standards. Not only are safety considerations part of ethical practices, but they are also a statutory requirement in Australia. Before embarking on any trip or sporting activity, ensure that the proper safety equipment is onboard and within reach in case of an emergency. As a first step, consult the South Australian safety handbook for more information on safety procedures and equipment. Also, you need to consider insurance before commencing business operations.

Licences

The law requires business owners to acquire a boat licence before being allowed to operate a marine vessel. However, most people assume that they can switch on a boat engine and head into the sea as long as they know how to sail. Before operating a powered boat, especially recreational models that ferry people, you should first apply and pass the relevant tests, for example, a personal watercraft licence. If caught operating without the license, you might be fined heavily or face jail time. Besides, the absence of a licence demonstrates a lack of professionalism, which is bad for business. Like road transport, the law requires a boat operator to carry with them the relevant licences as proof of compliance.

Boat Type

Establishing the type of boat that suits your business is hinged on different factors, including needs, operational area, customer requirements, and condition of a vessel. Marine vehicles are pretty expensive acquisitions; therefore, you should exercise due diligence before purchasing a boat. Some of the critical aspects to prioritise range from hull and deck conditions to engine specifications. Since the variables are technical, you should consult a boat expert for guidance, especially if you are a first-time buyer. Even better, an expert should accompany you to a dealership to ensure your requirements are met.

Contact local marine services to learn more.