TERMS & CONDITIONS

NOOSA WATERSPORTS  – BOAT HIRE
WAIVER & RELEASE OF LIABILITY

This Boat Hire Agreement (“Agreement”) is entered into between Noosa Watersports Pty Ltd (“Operator”) and the undersigned Hirer (“Hirer”).

By accepting possession or use of any vessel, the Hirer agrees to be legally bound by this Agreement.

1. HIRER RESPONSIBILITY (PRIMARY DUTY OF CARE)

1.1 The Hirer acknowledges they are the person in control of the vessel for the duration of hire and accept full responsibility for:

  • safe navigation and operation of the vessel
  • conduct of all passengers
  • compliance with maritime laws and directions
  • adherence to all safety instructions provided by the Operator

The Hirer assumes the role of temporary master of the vessel, regardless of experience or skill level.

The Hirer is solely responsible for any act or omission occurring during the hire period.

2. COMPREHENSIVE INDEMNITY

The Hirer irrevocably indemnifies and holds harmless the Operator, its directors, employees, agents, contractors, and insurers (“Indemnified Parties”) from and against all claims, demands, actions, liabilities, losses, damages, costs, or expenses (including legal costs on a full indemnity basis) arising out of or in connection with:

  • operation or use of the vessel
  • breach of this Agreement
  • negligence or wilful misconduct of the Hirer or passengers
  • damage to the vessel or third-party property
  • injury or death of any person
  • rescue, salvage, or recovery operations

This indemnity applies whether or not such loss arises from negligence of the Indemnified Parties to the fullest extent permitted by law.

3. RISK WARNING & ASSUMPTION OF RISK

The Hirer acknowledges boating activities involve inherent and significant risks, including but not limited to:

  • drowning or falling overboard
  • collision with other vessels or fixed objects
  • rough water, weather events, or mechanical failure
  • slips, trips, and falls on wet surfaces
  • injury from equipment or passenger behaviour
  • delayed emergency response due to location

The Hirer voluntarily:

  • accepts all risks, whether foreseeable or not
  • assumes full responsibility for personal safety and passenger safety
  • acknowledges risks may arise from environmental conditions or third-party actions

4. LIMITATION OF LIABILITY (STATUTORY FRAMEWORK)

To the maximum extent permitted by law, the Operator excludes all liability for:

  • personal injury
  • death
  • property damage
  • economic or consequential loss

arising from the use or hire of the vessel.

Nothing in this Agreement excludes, restricts, or modifies any consumer guarantees or statutory rights under the Australian Consumer Law that cannot be excluded.

5. SAFE OPERATION REQUIREMENTS

The Hirer agrees to strictly comply with all operational requirements including but not limited to:

  • speed limits and no-wash zones
  • daylight-only operation
  • navigation within permitted waterways only
  • prohibition of alcohol or drug impairment
  • adherence to passenger limits
  • prohibition on unsafe riding positions (bow, gunwales, etc.)
  • prohibition on towing or reckless activity
  • compliance with all signage, maps, and instructions

Failure to comply constitutes a material breach of this Agreement.

6. OPERATOR CONTROL & TERMINATION RIGHTS

The Operator reserves the right to:

  • immediately terminate hire without refund
  • recover the vessel at any time if safety is compromised
  • refuse or revoke hire where risk is deemed unacceptable

The Operator’s decision regarding safety is final.

7. DAMAGE LIABILITY

The Hirer is fully liable for all loss or damage to:

  • the vessel
  • equipment
  • third-party property
  • navigation infrastructure

The Hirer agrees to pay all repair, replacement, towing, salvage, and downtime costs.

8. PASSENGER SAFETY & SUPERVISION

The Hirer is responsible for ensuring all passengers:

  • comply with safety instructions
  • remain seated or safely positioned while underway
  • do not engage in reckless or prohibited conduct

Children and non-swimmers must be actively supervised at all times.

9. SAFETY EQUIPMENT

Safety equipment is provided and must not be removed, altered, or misused.

Life jackets must be worn when directed or where legally required.

Any tampering with safety equipment constitutes a breach and may result in liability for all resulting losses.

10. EMERGENCY RESPONSE

 The Hirer acknowledges that:

  • emergency response may be delayed in certain locations
  • they must contact emergency services (000) where required
  • they must notify the Operator immediately following any incident

11. WEATHER & MARINE CONDITIONS

The Hirer acknowledges conditions may change rapidly.

The Operator accepts no responsibility for:

  • weather-related disruption
  • inability to complete intended itinerary
  • safety decisions made in response to conditions

The Hirer accepts that operational decisions prioritise safety over convenience.

12. Governing Law

This agreement is governed by the laws of Queensland, Australia.

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

I confirm that I have read and understood this waiver, had the opportunity to ask questions, and agree to its terms freely and voluntarily.



NOOSA WATERSPORTS – STAND UP PADDLEBOARD, KAYAK & SAILING BOAT HIRE
WAIVER & RELEASE OF LIABILITY

1. Acknowledgement of Risk

I understand that hiring and using stand-up paddleboards (SUP), kayaks, and Hobie Cat sail boats from Noosa Watersports involves inherent risks associated with water activities.

These risks include, but are not limited to:

  • Falling into the water
  • Drowning or water-related injury
  • Collisions with other vessels, objects, or persons
  • Changing weather, wind, and water conditions
  • Capsizing or loss of control of watercraft
  • Fatigue, sun exposure, or dehydration
  • Injury caused by equipment or marine life

I acknowledge that these activities take place in natural waterways and that conditions can change rapidly. I voluntarily choose to participate and accept these risks.

2. Participant Responsibilities

I confirm that:

  • I am physically capable of safely operating a stand-up paddleboard, kayak, or Hobie Cat.
  • I will follow all instructions and safety briefings provided by Noosa Watersports staff.
  • I take responsibility to wear a life jacket or personal flotation device (PFD) 
  • I will remain within the designated operating area explained during the safety briefing.
  • I will operate the equipment responsibly and with regard for other water users.

I understand that failure to follow safety instructions may result in the hire being terminated without refund.

3. Hobie Cat Experience Declaration

Due to the nature of sailing vessels, Hobie Cat hire is available only to participants with prior sailing experience.

By signing this waiver, I confirm that I have previous experience sailing Hobie Cat or similar catamaran-style sailboats and understand how to safely operate the vessel, including steering, sail control, launching, and righting the boat in the event of capsize.

I acknowledge that Noosa Watersports is relying on this declaration when allowing me to hire a Hobie Cat and that no formal sailing instruction is being provided as part of the hire.

4. Release of Liability

To the fullest extent permitted by law, I release and hold harmless Noosa Watersports, its owners, employees, contractors, and representatives from any liability, claims, damages, injuries, or losses arising from my use of hired equipment or participation in water activities.

This includes personal injury, property damage, or loss occurring during the hire period, except where liability cannot be excluded under the Australian Consumer Law.

5. Equipment Responsibility

I agree to:

  • Inspect the equipment before use and report any issues immediately.
  • Return all hired equipment (including paddles, sails, rudders, and life jackets) in the same condition received, excluding normal wear and tear.
  • Accept responsibility for any loss, theft, or damage to equipment during the hire period.

I understand that repair or replacement costs may be charged if equipment is returned damaged or not returned.

6. Medical Consent

In the event of illness or injury, I authorise Noosa Watersports staff to obtain emergency medical assistance on my behalf if necessary. I understand that any medical expenses incurred are my responsibility.

7. Participants Under 18

Participants under the age of 18 must have this waiver signed by a parent or legal guardian.

9. Governing Law

This agreement is governed by the laws of Queensland, Australia.

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

I confirm that I have read and understood this waiver, had the opportunity to ask questions, and agree to its terms freely and voluntarily.



NOOSA WATERSPORTS – JETSKI HIRE
WAIVER & RELEASE OF LIABILITY

The hire of a Jet Ski is entered into between Noosa Watersports Pty Ltd and Noosa Asset Management Pty Ltd (together, the Company) and the Hirer (Driver).

These Terms and Conditions govern your use of the Jet Ski and form a legally binding agreement. You should read them carefully. If you do not understand any part, you should obtain independent legal and financial advice before signing.

The use of a Jet Ski is a dangerous recreational activity and involves significant risk of injury or death. You participate entirely at your own risk.

  1. Definitions

Hirer (Driver): Any person approved by the Company to operate the Jet Ski and who signs this agreement.

Company: As defined above.

Damage: Includes any loss, damage, accident, incident, third-party damage, vandalism, or event requiring police involvement, whether or not physical damage occurs.

Hire Period: From the Date of Hire until 11:59pm on that date (unless otherwise agreed).

PFD: Personal flotation device compliant with AS 4758:1:2015.

  1. Acknowledgement of Risk

You acknowledge and agree that:

  • Operating a Jet Ski is a dangerous recreational activity under applicable law.
  • The activity involves inherent risks including collision, capsizing, drowning, injury from other vessels, environmental conditions, and operator error.
  • These risks may result in serious injury, permanent disability, or death

You confirm you have been warned of these risks and voluntarily accept them.

  1. Hirer Warranties

You warrant that:

  • You are at least 16 years of age (and authorised if under 18).
  • You are not under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
  • You are medically and physically fit to participate (no pre-existing back/neck injuries)
  • You are not pregnant.
  • You understand and will follow all safety instructions.
  • You will comply with all applicable laws and directions.
  1. Company Warranty

The Company warrants that:

  • The Jet Ski is in a safe and operable condition.
  • Required safety equipment is provided.
  • Operations comply with applicable Queensland marine safety requirements.

Except as required by law, all other warranties are excluded.

  1. Safety & Operational Obligations

You must:

  • Follow all directions from staff at all times.
  • Operate only in designated areas.
  • Wear a PFD at all times.
  • Ensure passengers comply with all safety requirements.
  • Not operate recklessly, at excessive speed, or unlawfully.

The Company may terminate the hire immediately without refund if unsafe behaviour is observed.

  1. Responsibility & Risk

You are solely responsible for:

  • The safe operation of the Jet Ski.
  • The safety of all passengers.
  • Any injury or damage caused by your use.

You accept full responsibility for any loss, injury, or damage arising from:

  • Your actions or omissions.
  • Breach of these Terms.
  • Failure to follow instructions.
  1. Liability & Release

To the maximum extent permitted by law:

You release and discharge the Company from all liability for:

  • Personal injury or death.
  • Property damage or loss.

arising out of or in connection with the hire or use of the Jet Ski, including where caused by the negligence of the Company, except where such liability cannot be excluded.

  1. Indemnity

You agree to indemnify and hold harmless the Company against any claim, loss, damage, or liability arising from:

  • Your use of the Jet Ski.
  • Any breach of this agreement.
  • Any injury to third parties or damage to property.
  1. Australian Consumer Law Notice

Under the Australian Consumer Law, certain guarantees cannot be excluded.

Where this is a recreational service: Liability for failure to comply with guarantees is excluded to the extent permitted under relevant State legislation relating to dangerous recreational activities.

  1. Damage & Charges

You agree to:

  • Pay for all Damage caused during the Hire Period.
  • Pay for third-party damage or injury caused by you.
  • Authorise the Company to charge your credit card for any loss, damage, or associated costs.

The Company may retain or apply any security bond toward such costs.

  1. Property Disclaimer

The Company is not liable for:

  • Loss, theft, or damage to personal belongings.
  • Items left on or in the Jet Ski.
  1. Equipment Responsibility

You must return the Jet Ski:

  • In the same condition (fair wear and tear excepted).
  • At the agreed time.

Failure may result in additional charges.

  1. Minors

Where the Hirer or passenger is under 18:

  • A parent or guardian must consent.
  • The parent/guardian accepts all risks and liabilities on their behalf.

14. Governing Law

This agreement is governed by the laws of Queensland, Australia.

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

I confirm that I have read and understood this waiver, had the opportunity to ask questions, and agree to its terms freely and voluntarily.





NOOSA BLUEWATER CHARTERS – FISHING
WAIVER & RELEASE OF LIABILITY

1. ACKNOWLEDGEMENT OF RISK 

I acknowledge that participation in offshore fishing charter activities is a “recreational activity” involving a significant risk of physical harm or death.

I understand that risks include, but are not limited to:

  • Rough seas, swells, strong currents, and unpredictable ocean conditions
  • Vessel movement including sudden motion, rolling, pitching, or impact
  • Slips, trips, and falls on wet or unstable surfaces
  • Falling overboard, drowning, or hypothermia
  • Injury from fishing equipment, hooks, knives, winches, or fish handling
  • Injury caused by other participants or crew
  • Weather events including storms, lightning, and extreme heat exposure
  • Delays in rescue or emergency medical assistance due to offshore location

I voluntarily accept and assume all risk of injury, loss, damage or death arising from participation.

2. ASSUMPTION OF RISK

I acknowledge and agree that:

  • Participation is entirely voluntary
  • I assume full responsibility for my safety
  • I accept risks whether caused by known or unknown hazards
  • I understand risks may arise from negligence of others

3. WAIVER, RELEASE & DISCHARGE

To the maximum extent permitted by law, I:

  • RELEASE
  • WAIVE
  • DISCHARGE
  • AND COVENANT NOT TO SUE

Noosa Bluewater Charters, its directors, employees, agents, contractors, vessel operators, and crew (“Released Parties”) from all liability for:

  • personal injury or death
  • property damage or loss
  • economic or consequential loss

arising from participation in the charter, including boarding, disembarking, vessel operations, and associated activities.

4. EXCLUSION OF LIABILITY (LIMITED BY LAW)

I acknowledge that the Released Parties are not liable for loss or damage arising from negligence to the fullest extent permitted under the Australian Consumer Law, except where liability cannot be excluded by law.

5. INDEMNITY

I agree to indemnify and hold harmless the Released Parties against any claims, damages, costs, or expenses arising from:

  • my conduct or negligence
  • my failure to follow safety instructions
  • my breach of this agreement
  • claims brought by third parties as a result of my actions

6. SAFETY AUTHORITY & OPERATOR CONTROL

I acknowledge that:

  • The skipper has absolute authority over vessel safety and operation
  • All instructions must be followed immediately
  • The skipper may terminate my participation at any time for safety reasons
  • Removal from the vessel may occur without refund

7. FITNESS TO PARTICIPATE

I confirm that:

  • I am physically and mentally fit to participate
  • I am not under the influence of drugs or excessive alcohol
  • I will disclose any medical condition affecting participation
  • I accept responsibility for my own medical needs

8. WEATHER, SEA CONDITIONS & VARIATION

I acknowledge that:

  • Weather and sea conditions are inherently unpredictable
  • The skipper may alter itinerary, delay departure, or return to shore at any time
  • Safety decisions are final and binding

9. PHOTOGRAPHY & MEDIA RELEASE

I consent to the use of photographs or video taken during the charter for promotional purposes unless I notify staff prior to departure in writing.

10. CANCELLATION & LIMITATION OF LIABILITY

I acknowledge that the operator is not responsible for any indirect or consequential losses including:

  • travel expenses
  • accommodation
  • lost time or wages
  • third-party costs

Trips may be cancelled due to weather, safety concerns, or regulatory requirements.

11. SEVERABILITY

If any part of this agreement is held invalid or unenforceable, the remaining provisions remain in full force and effect.

12. Governing Law

This agreement is governed by the laws of Queensland, Australia.

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

I confirm that I have read and understood this waiver, had the opportunity to ask questions, and agree to its terms freely and voluntarily.