Wondering where to take your boat this Summer?

2 February 2018

With our hot weather and Perth’s amazing coastline, getting out on the tubes or skis is too good of an opportunity to pass up.

Boat ownership in Australia has grown substantially in the past 4-5 years with a Roy Morgan report from 2016 showing that approx. 2.6million Australians (13% of the population) aged 14+ reported living in a household with some kind of boat. That has grown by 500,000 people since 2012.

Contrary to popular belief, 'middle-class Australians' are generally more likely than those classified as 'wealthy' to live in households with a boat, with ownership percentages of 15.5% and 13.5% respectively. So, with so many boats out on the water, where is your favourite spot to throw down the anchor?

We've put together a list of some of Perth's hot spots for boating:

Rottnest Island

Being right in our backyard (Only approx. 19km off the coast of WA), Rottnest Island is a popular tourism spot for both locals and those visiting our amazing state, with up to 15,000 visitors at peak holidays periods (Census, 2011). Home of the famous smiling quokkas (Don't forget your selfie), Rottnest Island is a clear favourite for a day trip out on the boat, or a weekend getaway. For boating fees and forms visit the Rottnest Island Authority website.

Swan River

The Swan River lines our newly revamped CBD waterfront and hosts our annual Australia Day fireworks. It is a popular cruise for weekend boat goers and provides a much more laid-back trip for those wanting to relax on the water. Recreational boaties can cruise into Elizabeth Quay and park in one of the 24 short stay boat moorings, which are available for public use for three hours or less. Just be careful, as the river does get quite crowded, make sure you travel at a safe speed and keep your head on a swivel to look out for other boats.

Fremantle

If fishing is more your thing, the Fremantle Fishing Boat Harbour may be where you want to take your vessel. Boasting over 200 commercial and recreational pens, fueling and maintenance facilities, five jetties and three wharfs, name a more iconic duo than Freo and boating... we'll wait. Pull up the boat and enjoy some of Freo's famous fish and chips, or take a stroll into town and explore the famous Fremantle Markets.

With so many 'secret spots' and weekend regulars, where is your top pick to take out your boat?

Issued by RAC Insurance. Check the PDS to see if the policy is right for you.

This product is issued by RAC Insurance Pty Ltd. Benefits are subject to policy conditions and PED Guide. Before you make a decision, please check the PDS and TMD to see if the policy is right for you. Limits and exclusions apply.