Other River Users

Other River Users

JETBOATERS are signalling their own intentions.

KAYAKERS are advising following boats what to do.

Understanding these apparent differences is easiest if you start by realising the following:

JETBOATERS are signalling their own intentions. KAYAKERS are advising following boats what to do.

• Many kayakers/canoeists are intimidated by jetboats.
• Many of them are not aware just how attuned jetboaters must be to what is in and on the water.
• The perspective of the kayaker/canoeist is a fear that their low profile obscures them.
• Indicating that you have seen them EVERY time (even when they seem incredibly obvious to you) may help.
• Where possible an obvious speed or course alteration can also help. Remember the 5 knot rule applies when within 50m of a kayak/canoe.
• Consider that a kayaker may be boating a river at the limit of their ability and as such is not ready to cope with the added hurdle of a jetboat wake.
• Taking a moment to turn off the engine and exchange greetings while drifting past is a great way to maintain good relations with these other river users.
• We acknowledge the assistance of Glen Murdoch (Safety Officer for Recreational Canoeing Association) in researching the information on this page.