Domestic commercial vessels operating as adventure rides and experiences often conduct operations that involve intentional high speeds, vertical or horizontal accelerations, have aerial equipment attached or are used in other higher risk situations.

From October 2023 – March 2024, AMSA marine inspectors will be focusing inspection and education efforts on vessel adventure rides and experiences.  The inspectors will be looking closely at how operational activities, vessel design and crew competencies have been carefully considered to ensure the safety of everyone onboard.

More information and a list of questions our marine inspectors may ask is available via the link below.

Specifically, marine inspectors will look for:

• Evidence of appropriate crew and skill levels
• Evidence of induction and training records appropriate to the operation
• Evidence of a risk assessment to identify high speed and safety limitations
• Written procedures for the management of emergent situations
• Ready availability of lifejackets in an emergency and appropriately stored and secured safety equipment
• Observations that the vessel is fit for purpose and designed for adventurous type activities

AMSA has investigated very serious and serious incidents involving vessels operating as adventure rides and experiences in recent years and frequently receives reports of unsafe operations.