St George Motor Boat Club has launched an electric boat hire service, introducing a fleet of six battery-powered vessels to the Georges River in what the club describes as the future of recreational boating.

The initiative, developed over two years, aims to provide a quieter, cleaner alternative to traditional petrol-powered boats while making boating more accessible to newcomers.

The Fleet

The club’s electric fleet consists of:

• 4 x Electric Runabouts: 5-metre vessels seating up to 6 people, ideal for family outings and picnics on the river
• 2 x Electric Pontoons: 7-metre party boats seating up to 10, perfect for celebrations and group events

All vessels are manufactured by Australian company Quietude Marine and feature:

• 6-8 hours of cruising range on a single charge
• Near-silent operation
• Zero direct emissions
• Simple controls suitable for beginners
• Built-in Bluetooth speakers
• Shade canopies and safety equipment

Why Electric

The shift to electric reflects growing environmental awareness and changing member preferences, according to club commodore Brian Walsh.

“Twenty years ago, the louder your boat, the better,” Walsh acknowledged. “But attitudes have changed. Our members want to enjoy the river without disturbing wildlife or other users. Electric boats let you hear the birds, have a conversation without shouting.”

Environmental benefits were a key driver. The Georges River estuary hosts significant wildlife populations, including seahorses, pelicans, and migratory wading birds. Reduced noise and zero fuel spills from electric vessels minimise impact on these ecosystems.

The club worked with the Georges River Keeper environmental group during the planning process to ensure the initiative aligned with river health objectives.

Hire Details

Electric boats are available for hire by both members and the general public:

Members

• Runabouts: $80/half day, $140/full day
• Pontoons: $150/half day, $250/full day

Non-members

• Runabouts: $120/half day, $200/full day
• Pontoons: $200/half day, $350/full day

All hirers must complete a brief safety induction (15 minutes) before their first hire. No boat licence is required as the vessels are classified as small recreational craft.

Bookings can be made online through the club’s website or by calling the clubhouse.

Suggested Routes

The club has prepared suggested routes for hirers unfamiliar with the river:

Short Trip (2-3 hours) Launch from Sans Souci, cruise past Sandringham and Kyle Bay to Oatley Bay, return via the same route. Good for beginners and families with young children.

Half Day (4-5 hours) Explore the upper reaches toward Salt Pan Creek, stop for a picnic at Lime Kiln Bay, return via Kogarah Bay. Brings you past diverse scenery from mangroves to residential waterfront.

Full Day Adventure Head downstream toward Botany Bay, lunch stop at Dolls Point or Brighton-Le-Sands, return in the afternoon. More open water; recommended for confident boaters.

Maps with points of interest, toilet facilities, and picnic spots are provided with each hire.

Response So Far

Since launching last month, the electric fleet has proven popular, with weekend bookings filled weeks in advance.

“We’ve had people who’ve never been on a boat before giving it a go,” Walsh noted. “The electric boats feel less intimidating than a noisy outboard. We’re seeing families, couples on dates, groups of friends just wanting a relaxing day on the water.”

The club is already considering expanding the fleet based on demand, with two additional runabouts potentially arriving by winter.

Broader Trend

St George Motor Boat Club isn’t alone in embracing electric boating. Clubs across Sydney are exploring similar initiatives as battery technology improves and costs decrease.

“This is where recreational boating is heading,” Walsh predicted. “We’re proud to be leading the way on the Georges River.”

For more information or to book an electric boat, visit stgeorgemotorboatclub.com.au or visit the clubhouse at Sans Souci.