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Sea Safe Boat School
Tony or Arran
0429 146 201
Australia’s coastline boasts stunning views, but it conceals perilous secrets. Among them are the most dangerous bar crossings, where tranquil waters collide with mighty ocean swells, posing a serious threat to boaters.
In this article, we explore:
Coastal bars are like submerged speed bumps at the mouths of rivers and estuaries. They’re shallow, shifting sandbanks where tranquil waters collide with incoming waves.
Imagine driving on a smooth road suddenly interrupted by a series of unexpected bumps—that’s what navigating a coastal bar feels like for boaters.
Some of Australia’s bar crossings are notorious for their deadly reputation. Take, for instance, the Narooma Bar on the Far South Coast of New South Wales.
Over the years, it has claimed lives and caused serious injuries due to its narrow and shallow channel. The Manukau Bar in New Zealand is another infamous example, recognised as one of the world’s most dangerous crossings.
Coastal bars are unpredictable beasts.
They change constantly due to factors like:
Even experienced boaters can find themselves in precarious situations when crossing these treacherous waters.
Navigating coastal bars and crossing bars in boats requires careful planning and following safety rules. Before heading out, boaters should check:
Channels through bars offer the safest route, but they can change suddenly, so stay alert. Only experienced sailors should attempt bar crossings, with the skills to handle rough waters.
It’s important to:
Keep the boat in good shape, secure loose items, and be ready for any weather changes. Following these precautions keeps everyone safe on the water.
In conclusion, coastal bars pose significant risks to boaters across Australia. The Narooma Bar and other hazardous crossings serve as sobering reminders of the dangers lurking in our waters.
To stay safe, it’s crucial to prioritise caution and seek advice from local authorities and experienced boaters. We encourage all boaters to share this knowledge with their peers, promoting a culture of safety and awareness within the maritime community.
By working together and staying informed, we can reduce the risks associated with coastal bar crossings and ensure safer journeys for everyone. As a final recommendation, we urge boaters to consider obtaining a skippers ticket Perth through reputable institutions like Sea Safe Boat School.
Proper training and education can significantly enhance boaters’ skills and confidence, making them better equipped to handle the challenges of coastal navigation. In the world of boating, knowledge truly is power—and when it comes to coastal bars, it can mean the difference between life and death.
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Mike Watson, chef instructor of Sea Safe Boat School, has over 35 years of sea-going experience. Starting his maritime journey at 15 in Grimsby, England, he's sailed locations like Iceland and Greenland. Certified as a Master-5 Trainer, Mike is now dedicated to offering courses to those pursuing their recreational skippers ticket in Perth.
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