A father and son from Ravenswood were rescued from the water this morning after their vessel capsized off Akaroa, near St Helens.

Around 6am the 47 and 69 year old men were retrieving cray pots in the area of St Helens Rocks when their 5.18 metre aluminium vessel was swamped by a wave over the stern. A second wave caused the vessel to capsize.

Both men were wearing life jackets and were able to cling to their upturned vessel for around an hour, before a passing recreational fisherman rescued them from the water and called emergency services.

Both men received medical treatment from Ambulance Tasmania paramedics for non-life threatening injuries.

“This is a timely reminder to boat operators to remain vigilant over the summer period and not enter into sea conditions that exceed the capabilities of skippers and vessels,” said Acting Sergeant Matt Lovell.

“This incident is a prime example to boat users of how important it is to have safety gear on-board and in serviceable order.

“Had these men not been wearing life jackets this morning it could have been a very different outcome.”

Police urge anyone planning on boating this summer to:

• always wear a life jacket when on a boat or personal watercraft e.g. jet ski
• know where the flares and EPIRB are stored in case you need them in an emergency
• check the weather conditions prior to planning a day on the water
• never enter sea conditions that exceed the capabilities of skippers and vessels
• always tell someone where you are going and when you anticipate to return
• remember that alcohol and boating don’t mix, so stay under 0.05.