Sailboarding/Kitesurfing
Sailboarding (sometimes referred to as windsurfing) and kitesurfing (sometimes referred to as kiteboarding) are surface water sports that combine elements of surfing with sailing and kiting, harnessing the power of the wind.
Both sailboards and kiteboards are classified as vessels and therefore come under NSW marine legislation.
Distance off
When travelling at 10 knots or more, sailboarders/ kitesurfers and their equipment, including kite and lines, must:
- Maintain a minimum distance of 60m from any persons or non-powered vessels or 30m from powered vessels and any objects in the water or, if that is not possible, a safe distance.
- Stay out of a designated swimming zone (see page 34).
Lifejacket
An appropriate lifejacket must be worn when sailboarding more than 400m from the nearest shore.
An appropriate lifejacket must be worn when kitesurfing more than 400m from shore and kiting alone.
No-go/Caution areas
Sydney Harbour is a no-go zone for sailboarding
and kitesurfing.
At Pittwater off Station Beach, caution is required as this is a seaplane landing and take-off area. Appropriate warning signs have been established north and south of the seaplane wharf.
Other locations may have no-go areas imposed by local signage. Check with your local Maritime Operations Centre or visit Maritime’s website to view relevant boating maps for details.
Safety tips
- Take extreme care when launching.
- Keep a proper lookout at all times.
- Maintain proper distances off when operating in the vicinity of surfers outside the designated surf zone.
- Keep a proper lookout at all times for obstructions, other craft or swimmers.
- Look all around – even behind you.
- Carry a hand held marine radio or mobile phone in case of emergency.
Give way
Power driven craft must give way to sailcraft such as sailboards/kiteboards unless the sailboarder/ kitesurfer is in the process of overtaking.
A sailboarder/kitesurfer overtaking any other craft (power or sail) must keep well clear of the vessel being overtaken.