Private sea vessels are one of the most expensive modes of transportation to keep and maintain. These vessels can be categorized into three types: unpowered, which requires oars; sailing boats, which are propelled solely by means of sails; and, motorboats, which are propelled by engines.

Boats are small. In military terms, a boat is a small vessel that can be stored inside a bigger vessel (a ship). Recreational boats today are mostly made out of glass-reinforced plastic or fiberglass which are extremely strong and do not rust, corrode, or rot. People have even made their own boats out of recycled materials such as foam or plastic or plywood and covered in a layer of fiberglass and resin.
A yacht is an example of a water vessel that is made primarily for recreational and leisure purposes. Yachts are commonly perceived as luxury vessels and can range from crafts smaller than 12 meters to more than 60 meters. Yachts of this size are generally called super yachts.

Yachts are also used for sporting events such as yacht racing. Yacht racing in Australia are among the most popular in the world such as the Audi Sydney Gold Coast Yacht Race which marks the start of the Cruising Yacht Club of Australia?s offshore racing season. The Yachting Australia, a principal partner of the Australian Sports Commission, is the peak body of all forms of yachting in Australia. It helps in the promotion of sailing, support of sailors, coordination of yachting events and the governance of the sport.

In Australia, each State and Territory has different laws regarding the licensing of commercial and recreational boats. Each State and Territory has different requirements that a boat operator needs to meet in order get the boat into the water and sail safely around the Australian coast.

Boat licenses are an important requirement before a person can sail in open waters. It is for the safety of the owner, the crew, the passengers, other boaters and the boat itself. It is best to obtain the proper boat licenses regardless of the vessel?s size and attending a course and license. Boat course and boat testing will provide the owner with valuable information on safe boating and navigation in Australian waters.

Recreational yachting tips

• Bring all the necessary items you need for your trip. You will be away from land for a time and there are no stores available lest you forget something.
• Always bring life jackets for you and your family and friends? safety aboard.
• When anchoring, consider the sea bed where you?ll drop anchor. Sand is the most ideal while rocks should be avoided. Think about other factors such as the wind and the tide when anchoring overnight.

Tips when hiring a boat

• Check that the boat has all the safety equipment that goes with it including foul-weather gear and lifejackets.
• Take as much as you can, you might stop at places where there are no cash machines.
• Have a good idea of the proposed itinerary and be clear about where you are heading on a chart.
• Have an alternative plan in case the weather does not cooperate.
• Bring medication in case you suffer from seasickness.
• Sensitive electronic equipment and gadgets do not mix well with sea water.