The Harbors and Navigation Act 1993 (SA) prescribes that any person who operates a vessel that is fitted with an engine, or any other vessel so prescribed by regulation, must hold:

Failure to adhere to the above requirements is an offence punishable by a fine of up to $5,000 or an expiation fee of $315 [s 47(3)].

Recreational vessels must also be registered to be used on any South Australian waterway [s 55].

A person who holds an interstate boat operator's licence may operate a registered recreational vessel in South Australia for a period of up to 90 days. Beyond that time, they must apply for a South Australian boat operator's licence [Harbors and Navigation Regulations 2023 (SA) reg 70(c)].

Specific rules apply for children aged under 16 years, for the use of kayaks and canoes fitted with electronic motors, and for houseboats or boats for hire. For more information see the Service SA website on boat licences.

To apply for a boat licence, a person must be at least 16 years of age, must disclose any medical conditions, and must pass a written exam. Exams are conducted by Service SA. For more information on applying for a boat licence, see the Service SA South Australian Recreational Boating Safety Handbook.

There are a number of offences that apply if a vessel is unsafe, is operated without due care or in a dangerous manner, or is operated by someone so under the influence of drugs and alcohol as to be incapable of exercising effective control of the vessel.