Just Got My Boat & Jetski Licence – Any Tips for New Boaties in Brisbane?

[garymalmgren]

Good morning Oliva
RE:
I’m based in Brisbane but also plan to head down to the Gold Coast every now and then. For those who’ve been boating around here for a while – what are your favourite spots for a relaxing cruise or a bit of adventure?
Also, any advice on safe boating practices, must-have gear, or local rules I should be aware of would be greatly appreciated.

Being based in Brisbane you will have access to Morton Bay and Morton island. This is a broad shallow water way. great for sailing and fishing,

As you go south you will enter the maze of waterways and islands that lead down to the Gold Coast,
It is amazing that such a wild and isolated place exists so close to large residential ares. Wildlife, (signs in the water saying beware of swimming 'roos).
this is the roosting area for the migrating birds that come down from Alaska, great fishing, anchor almost anywhere.. With the right conditions you can actually sail through this area.

Things to watch out for. Mossies and midges. Jetskis and sandbanks.. On the weekends the jetskis really live up to their reputation.
Fast, carefree, noisy and completely oblivious to the serenity and nature around them. Especially the ones fitted with sound systems and flashing LED lights that broadcast horrid Rap music near and far.
HOWEVER, on a winters weekday, heaven
This is a mate and me at Jumpinpin.
gary

 

[jamie N]

As an explanation to post #18 "Straddie", North Stradboke Island is OK, and the waters around aren't too bad either. It's not too far from Brisbane, and is easily connected to everywhere else.

 

[Neeves]

Hey everyone,


I’m pretty new to the boating scene and just got my boat and jetski licence through Boat Licence Queensland. The training was straightforward, and now I’m keen to make the most of it.


I’m based in Brisbane but also plan to head down to the Gold Coast every now and then. For those who’ve been boating around here for a while – what are your favourite spots for a relaxing cruise or a bit of adventure?


Also, any advice on safe boating practices, must-have gear, or local rules I should be aware of would be greatly appreciated.


Looking forward to learning from you all and hopefully sharing some great boating stories in the future!

cheers

Olivia Macnally

Hi Olivia,

Welcome to the forum

Strangely in NSW you don't need a Boat Licence if you sail, I have one anyway, the licensing is focussed at motorised vessels where the motor is the primary or only source of propulsion.

I'm based in Sydney - Pittwater to be more accurate. Historically we used to sail, a sailing cat, to the Whitsundays but gave it up as it was too popular. We moved our cruising grond to the other direction and used to spend 3 months getting to, anchoring and returning to/from Tasmania. I don't think our experiences entirely fit with a jet ski nor motor boat - but....

I know nothing about jetskis.

I'd suggest that you might get better replies if you define, list, your ambitions and we might be able to be be more positive.

edit

Visit a local candler, they will have some local focussed literature defining anchorage etc, The 'go to' publication was called 'Brownies' and produced under Channel 7 (?) b ut there are others. If you planned on trailering to the Whitsundays '100 Magic Miles' is a decent choice.

Jonathan