Average Boat Transport Costs in Australia (All Types)

Written by Desiree Vilar in Cost of Sailing

Although Australia has strict biosecurity laws in terms of importing a boat, it's not an impossible task to move your boat to this area. However, it can be a time-consuming and costly process. This article will give you all the necessary information on the average cost of boat transport in Australia for different boat types.

Transporting a sailboat in Australia costs around $500 - $2,500, while a powerboat transport ranges from $600 - $10,000. Meanwhile, a jetski can be transported for only $200 - $1,500. Different Australian states have varying boat transport costs ranging from as low as $300 up to $3,500.

The costs mentioned don't include additional fees such as GST (Goods and Services Tax) which is usually 10% and other fees such as oversize charges and permits, crane lifts and marina fees, and maintenance and insurance. Below, we'll go over the actual costs for each of these.

Summary

  • Transporting large boats might require the use of specialized equipment such as a crane lift, which can add to the costs.
  • Road transport will be less expensive than sea transport, but it may also take longer and require more planning.
  • Take into account the Goods and Services Tax (GST) which is usually at 10%, and is levied on most services in Australia.
  • Making sure that your boat is properly insured before transportation can help you save on unexpected maintenance costs.
  • Some boat transport companies may also charge extra fees for transporting sailboats with masts or other specialized equipment.

Average Boat Transport Costs in Australia

Boat transport costs by type of boat

Below is a table showing the average transport costs for different types of boats in Australia as well as the factors affecting them.

Boat Type Average Cost (in AUD) Factors Affecting Cost
Sailboat $500 - $2,500 Boat size, distance, additional services, specialized equipment
Powerboat $600 - $10,000+ Boat size, distance, mode of transportation, additional services
Jetski $200 - $1,500+ Distance, mode of transportation, additional services

Cost of transporting a sailboat

The average cost of transporting a sailboat in Australia can range from $500 to $2,500. For smaller sailboats, such as those under 20 feet in length, the cost of transportation can be relatively low, ranging from $500 to $1,000 for shorter distances.

For larger sailboats, such as those over 40 feet in length, the cost of transportation can be significantly higher, ranging from $2,000 to $2,500 or more for longer distances.

Additional services, such as craning the boat onto a trailer or securing the boat for transport, can also add to the overall cost of transportation. Some boat transport companies may also charge extra fees for transporting sailboats with masts or other specialized equipment.

Cost of transporting a powerboat

The cost of transporting a powerboat can range from $600 to $3,000. For smaller boats, such as those under 20 feet in length, the cost of transportation can range from around $500 to $1,500.

For larger boats, such as those over 30 feet in length, the cost can be significantly higher, with prices ranging from $3,000 to $10,000 or more.

The mode of transportation used can also impact the cost of transporting a powerboat. For example, transporting a boat by road can be less expensive than transporting it by sea, but it may also take longer and require more planning.

It's also worth noting that some companies may offer additional services, such as boat cleaning and preparation, which can add to the overall cost of transportation.

Cost of transporting a jetski

Transporting a jet ski in Australia is generally less expensive than transporting a sailboat or powerboat. On average, the cost of transporting a jet ski can range from $200 to $600.

For short distances, such as within the same city or region, the cost of transporting a jetski can range from around $100 to $300. For longer distances, such as interstate transportation, the cost can be higher, ranging from $500 to $1,500 or more.

The mode of transportation used can also impact the cost of transporting a jet ski. Transporting it by road can also be less expensive than transporting it by sea or air, but it may also take longer and require more planning.

Boat transport costs per Australian state

Below is a table showing the average transport costs for different states in Australia:

Australian State Average Cost Range in AUD
Victoria $300 - $1,500
New South Wales $300 - $2,000
Queensland $400 - $2,500
Western Australia $500 - $3,000
Northern Territory $500 - $3,500
South Australia $400 - $2,500
Tasmania $500 - $2,500

Cost of transport in Victoria

On average, boat transport costs in Victoria can range from $300 to $1,500. If you're looking to transport your boat over a short distance, you may be able to use a local boat transport service that specializes in short hauls. These services typically charge by the hour or by the mile, and may also have minimum fees for smaller boats.

For longer distances, you may need to use a larger boat transport company that specializes in longer hauls. These companies may charge a flat rate based on the size and weight of the boat, as well as the distance it needs to be transported.

Other factors that can impact the cost of boat transport in Victoria, Australia include the type of transport used (such as a trailer or a specialized boat carrier), any permits or licenses required for transport, and any additional services you may need, such as loading and unloading assistance.

Cost of transport in New South Wales

On average, the cost of transporting a boat in New South Wales can range from $300 to $2,000. When transporting a small boat within a short distance, you may be able to use a trailer and tow the boat yourself, which would be relatively inexpensive.

However, for larger boats or longer distances, you may need to use a professional boat transport company, which could cost significantly more.

Additionally, if you need your boat transported quickly, you may need to pay more for expedited or express shipping. Extra services such as loading and unloading, crating, or insurance, can also add to the overall cost.

Cost of transport in Queensland

On average, boat transport costs in Queensland can range from $400 for small boats such as dinghies or small pleasure craft, to $2,500 for larger boats such as yachts or motorboats.

You may be able to use a trailer and tow the boat yourself if you're moving a small boat, so you would need to factor in the cost of fuel, tolls, and any other expenses related to driving your vehicle and towing the boat.

For larger boats, such as yachts or motorboats, you may need to use a professional boat transport company. These companies specialize in moving boats and have the necessary equipment and expertise to safely transport your vessel.

Cost of transport in Western Australia

Boat transport costs in Western Australia are generally higher than in other parts of the country due to the vast distances involved and the relatively low population density. Some boat transport companies in Western Australia offer discounts for multiple boat shipments or for repeat customers.

On average, you can expect to pay around $500 to $3,000. For transporting a boat from Perth to Broome, the costs can range from $2,000 to $5,000.

Always choose a reputable boat transport company with experience in transporting boats in Western Australia to ensure that your boat arrives safely and on time.

Cost of transport in the Northern Territory

The Northern Territory is located in the northern central part of Australia and is the third-largest federal division in the country. Some common options for boat transport in the Northern Territory include container shipping, roll-on/roll-off (RO-RO) shipping, and barge transportation.

Container shipping involves the use of large shipping containers to transport goods, while RO-RO shipping involves loading and unloading cargo directly onto the boat. Barge transportation is typically used for smaller loads or for transport in areas where larger boats cannot access.

The cost of boat transport in the Northern Territory can range from a few hundred dollars for smaller loads to several thousand dollars for larger shipments. The specific costs can escalate from around $500 to $3,500.

Cost of transport in South Australia

One of the most common methods of boat transport in South Australia is by road. This involves loading the boat onto a trailer and towing it to its destination.

The cost of road transport varies based on the distance traveled, with longer distances generally costing more. Additionally, larger boats may require a special permit or pilot car escort, which can add to the cost. Overall, transport costs in South Australia can range from $400 to $2,500.

Another option for boat transport in South Australia is by sea. This is a popular method for transporting boats between different ports or islands.

In addition to the transport method, there are several additional fees that can impact the cost of boat transport in South Australia such as insurance, storage fees, loading and unloading fees, and any permits or paperwork required for the transport.

Cost of transport in Tasmania

Boat transport costs in Tasmania can range from $500 to $2,500. If you're transporting a smaller boat over a shorter distance, you can expect to pay less than if you're transporting a larger boat over a longer distance.

Some factors that can affect the cost of boat transport in Tasmania include:

  • The size and weight of the boat
  • The distance to be covered
  • The type of transport service you choose (e.g. road transport, sea transport)
  • The time of year (prices may be higher during peak season)

The cost of boat transport from Sydney (in NSW) to Perth (in Western Australia) costs around $10,000 to $50,000 or more.

Additional Costs in Boat Transportation

Below is a table showing an estimation of the additional costs when transporting a 30-foot sailboat in Australia:

Additional Costs Estimated Cost Range (in AUD)
Oversize charges and permits $100 - $500
Crane lifts $500 - $2,000
Marina storage fees $50 - $200 per day
Maintenance costs $500 - $1,500
Insurance costs 1-2% of boat value (e.g. $1,000 - $2,000 for a $100,000 boat)
GST 10% of the total cost (if applicable)

Oversize charges and permits

If your boat is larger than the standard size, you may be subject to oversize charges and permits. Oversize charges refer to the additional fees that are charged for transporting boats that exceed the standard size.

Permits are required for oversized boats to ensure that they are transported safely and legally. The cost of permits generally ranges from $100 to $500.

Crane lifts and marina fees

If your boat needs to be lifted onto a trailer or transported by crane, you may be subject to additional fees. Crane lifts are often required for larger boats that cannot be easily loaded onto a trailer. The cost of a crane lift can range from $500 to $2,000.

Now, if your boat needs to be temporarily stored at a marina before or after transportation, you may be subject to daily or weekly storage fees of around $50 to $200 per day.

Maintenance and insurance costs

Maintenance costs can include things like winterizing your boat, checking the engine, and ensuring that the boat is in good working condition before transportation. Insurance costs can include things like liability insurance, cargo insurance, and hull insurance.

Fully insured boat transporters will have the appropriate insurance to cover any damage that may occur during transportation. The cost of insurance is based on the value of your boat and the level of coverage you require. Making sure that your boat is properly insured before transportation can help you avoid unexpected costs.

GST and its influence on boat transport costs

When considering boat transport costs in Australia, you may need to be aware of the Goods and Services Tax (GST) and how it can influence the overall costs. GST is a broad-based tax, levied on most goods, services, and other items sold or consumed in Australia. Currently, the GST rate in the country is 10%.

When you are charged for boat transport services by professional haulage transport companies, the quotes provided may already include GST. Always make sure to ask for a GST-inclusive quote to avoid unexpected taxes being added to your final bill.

Moreover, if you are importing a boat to Australia, the GST can apply to the value of the boat as well as associated costs such as shipping and insurance. This means that when calculating your boat transport costs, you should take into account the potential impact of GST on these additional expenses. You can use an online calculator provided by the Australian Taxation Office to estimate the GST payable for your specific situation.


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