There is a massive boating population in WA due to its stunningly vast coastline. Enthusiasts are spoilt with beautiful islands, archipelagos and reefs to explore all the way up and down the state - not to mention some unprecedentedly untouched coastal views that must be seen to be believed.
There is a massive boating population in WA due to its stunningly vast coastline. Enthusiasts are spoilt with beautiful islands, archipelagos and reefs to explore all the way up and down the state - not to mention some unprecedentedly untouched coastal views that must be seen to be believed.
WA Boating Regulations
There are some seriously hefty fines if you disobey WA fishing regulations, so taking all precautions - particularly acquiring a boating licence from either Australia Post or the Department of Fisheries website, will ensure smooth (and legal) sailing.
If fishing down south, you'll need a Recreational Fishing Boat Licence if you're in a powered boat, unless in the company of someone who already holds a licence.
If you're a fan of crayfish, abalone, marron, fresh-water angling and net fishing, you'll also need a licence. Upstream of Margaret River you will require a freshwater licence, but downstream all you'll need is your rod, tackle and bait.
[gallery link="none" columns="2" size="full" ids="https://media.localista.com.au/2018/10/AustralianSouthWest-Bunbury-BoatDolphin-1200x675.jpg|Boats docked in Bunbury,https://media.localista.com.au/2018/10/Shutterstock-Hillarys-Sailing-1200x675.jpg|Sailing in Hillarys"]
Boating Activities
Board a tall ship
Be a pirate for the day aboard Australia’s largest training tall ship the STS Leeuwin II. Launched in 1986, the working ship offers anyone over the age of 14 the opportunity to learn to sail from Fremantle on three-hour day trips or extended voyages.
Yacht clubs
There are yacht clubs abound in WA, and extra hands are always in demand during racing seasons. Put your name down to crew on a twilight sail, or, if you have your own yacht, dock and say g’day as you travel.
[gallery link="none" columns="1" size="full" ids="https://media.localista.com.au/2018/10/Shutterstock-LeeuwinTallShip-Fremantle-1200x675.jpg|Leeuwin Tall Ship in Fremantle"]
Charter a yacht
Outsource the crew duties and make yourself comfortable aboard a luxury yacht, for a twilight sail from Fremantle, around Rottnest, Carnac and Green islands.
Yachts are also available for exclusive charters to cruise Lake Argyle and the rivers of the Kimberley. Take a sea safari to the Buccaneer Archipelago, go barefoot sailing in Geographe Bay, or cruise up Ningaloo Reef.
Learn to sail
Learn the ropes and how to capture the wind in your sails, cut a jib, tack, turn about and distinguish your port from your starboard.
Image credit: Mindarie Marina, Hillarys and Fremantle - Shutterstock, Bunbury - Tourism WA