Paddle craft

When using paddle craft, you must comply with the following safety equipment requirements.

In protected waters

When paddling in protected water or within 400 metres of the shore we recommend that you wear a lifejacket level 50S (or higher).

In unprotected waters

When paddling more than 400 metres from shore in the ocean in unprotected waters:

• A lifejacket level 50S (or higher) must be worn by everyone on board if your paddle craft is less than 4.8 metres long. If your vessel is 4.8m or larger a lifejacket level 50S or higher must be carried for everyone on board.
• You must carry a GPS-enabled EPIRB or wear a GPS-enabled PLB. You will have until 1 September 2028 to upgrade to a GPS enabled EPIRB.
• You must carry at least 2 handheld red flares and 2 handheld orange flares. 
  • Parachute flares may be used instead of the red handheld flares but only until 1 September 2026.   
  • An approved Electronic Visual Distress Signal (EVDS) may be carried instead of flares, if you also carry a GPS-enabled EPIRB or wear a GPS-enabled PLB is worn.
• It is recommended you carry a marine radio, when operating more than 4 nautical miles from shore. 27 MHz radios are being phased out by 1 September 2028 and will no longer be compliant.

Navigation lights

When paddling during the hours of sunset and sunrise, you must carry a torch or lantern with a white light.

The light must be ready for use and shown in sufficient time to prevent a collision.

It is recommended that you display a white light at all times when paddling during the hours of sunset and sunrise.

Find out more about navigation lights.

It is important to be clearly visible while on the water.

Paddle craft are generally smaller than other vessels and sit lower in the water, making it difficult to be seen.

To improve your visibility when paddling:

• dress in bright colours
• paddle in tight formation when travelling with other paddlers
• keep a proper lookout
• stay close to shore
• keep to the starboard (right hand) side of a channel.

Before you leave home to go paddling:

• Check you have the correct safety equipment for your planned area of operation and make sure it’s in good working order.
• Check your craft for leaks or damage including cables and fasteners. 
• Check the latest weather update and tide information and plan your trip accordingly.
• Check you have adequate local knowledge if you’re operating in unfamiliar areas. 
• Check your supplies of food, water and sunscreen - don’t get caught short. 
• Always tell someone where you are going and when you intend to return. 
• Check your clothing suits the conditions. 
• Consider what to do in an emergency.

If conducting an extended offshore voyage, consider travelling with another paddle craft or support craft and logging on and off with the local marine rescue group.

Download the Deckee app for safety, weather and location-based information to help you stay safe on the water.

The term 'swift water' or 'white water' is used to describe the state of a river after heavy rains or a dam release.

In WA, this flood state doesn't happen often and a sudden deluge can often carry fallen trees and branches with it, causing dangerous obstacles to form.

Plant growth and rocks can form additional obstacles and fast, turbulent waves, rapids and eddies form in the river challenging even experienced paddlers.

The Swift Water paddling brochure below promotes safe paddling practices and provides guidelines to foster safety in a swift water environment.