Boat ramps serve as vital gateways for your Stacer boats to aquatic fun. However, their functionality and user experience can deteriorate rapidly without proper maintenance. This comprehensive guide explores a variety of strategies for keeping boat ramps clean, organized, and welcoming for all boaters.

Maintaining A Busy Public Space

Boat ramps face several unique challenges that contribute to clutter and mess:

 High Traffic Volume: During peak seasons, boat ramps can experience a constant flow of trailers, vehicles, and boaters, leading to potential litter and debris accumulation.

Varying User Habits: Unfortunately, not all boaters prioritise responsible waste disposal. Food wrappers, fishing lines, and other debris can be left behind, creating an unpleasant and potentially hazardous environment.

Environmental Factors: Wind, rain, and water currents can carry leaves, twigs, and other debris from surrounding areas, further contributing to the need for regular maintenance.

Sharing the Responsibility for Cleaning Ramps

Maintaining a clean and orderly boat ramp requires a collaborative effort from various stakeholders:

Boaters: The primary responsibility falls on boaters themself. Following these essential practices goes a long way:

• Dispose of Trash Properly: Use designated trash receptacles and avoid leaving any litter behind. Bring a small trash bag on your boat trip to collect any waste generated onboard.

• Clean Up After Yourself: Ensure any spilled bait, fish guts, or other debris is properly disposed of.

• Report Issues: If you observe overflowing trash cans or significant debris accumulation, report it to the appropriate authorities responsible for ramp maintenance.

Local Authorities: Government agencies or designated organizations responsible for the boat ramp play a crucial role:

• Regular Cleaning Schedule: Establish a regular cleaning schedule for the ramp area, including emptying trash cans, sweeping debris, and removing any accumulated dirt or grime.

• Signage and Awareness: Install clear, informative signage that outlines proper boat ramp etiquette and waste disposal guidelines.

• Community Clean-up Events: Periodic volunteer clean-up days at the boat ramp, encouraging community involvement and fostering a sense of shared responsibility.

Beyond Cleanliness: Maintaining Functionality for Smoother Launches

While cleanliness is paramount, maintaining a functional boat ramp is equally important:

Ramp Surface Maintenance: Regularly inspect the ramp surface for cracks, unevenness, or slippery patches. Address any maintenance needs promptly to ensure safe and efficient launching and retrieval.

Dock and Courtesy Area Upkeep: Maintain any courtesy docks or designated waiting areas in good condition. Ensure they are free of debris and have sturdy railings for safe maneuvering.

Parking Lot Management: Marked parking spaces and designated trailer parking areas can significantly improve traffic flow and prevent congestion at the launch ramp.

If you need any boating assistance, Phillip Island Marine is there to help you out. Not only they are authorised dealers of Stacer, Offshore NZ, Arvor, Caribbean boats; and Mercury boat engines; but they also offer engine servicing, boat hire, boat detailing, boat storage, and boat valet service.

About a 5-minute walk from Phillip Island Marine, you can find the Rhyll Boat Ramp, where it is free to launch and do a trial test of the boat you’ve bought from the dealership. This boat ramp is your gateway to discover the marine life around Phillip Island. The roomy 3-lane boat ramp can be accessed by boaters with small to large vessels with little risks or hazards to boats and boaters.

The boat ramp also has a jetty where you can walk around with your family and pets and enjoy the beautiful nature around you. You can also fish around the area as well. The parking areas are wide enough for anyone to park their boat trailers and vehicles; even the 4x4 and caravans.

While the ramp is accessible on low tides, it’s best to be still careful when launching or retrieving boats.

A clean, well-maintained boat ramp not only enhances the user experience for boaters but also protects the surrounding environment.  By adopting these strategies and fostering a sense of collective responsibility, we can ensure that boat ramps remain welcoming gateways to countless aquatic adventures for generations to come.