Lake Nagambie is shared by powerboats, water skiers, rowers, paddlers, anglers and swimmers. Read the current waterway rules before launching, then check whether an event changes access for your visit.
01Speed zones and ski zones
Lake Nagambie's rules changed in 2025. Powered vessels on the lake now have a 20 knot maximum, with lower limits in signed areas. Boats travel anti-clockwise, and the rowing course is reserved for non-powered craft. The Goulburn River has separate zones and limits. Read the current Lake Nagambie rules and zone information from Safe Transport Victoria and use the map linked from the Strathbogie Shire boating page before entering the water.
Rules can change. Follow signs and navigation markers on the day.
02Where to launch
There are several public launching points around the lake and river. Our boat ramps guide maps the options and explains which ramps may close during events.
Choose a ramp for your route, not just the one closest to town. Check the wind, water level and event access before towing the boat in.
03Hire a boat, kayak or paddleboard
Go Adventure Nagambie lists tinnies, canoes, kayaks, stand-up paddleboards, pedal boats and pontoon boats for hire from the Nagambie Lakes Regatta Centre. Craft, operating arrangements and availability can change, so check with Go Adventure Nagambie before you travel.
04Licence and safety basics
A marine licence is required to operate a powered recreational vessel in Victoria. A personal watercraft endorsement is also required for a jet ski. Check the current requirements with Safe Transport Victoria.
Carry the required safety equipment and wear the correct lifejacket. Conditions can change quickly on open water. Slow down around ramps, paddlers and shorelines, and keep clear of the rowing course when it is in use.
05Plan around lake closures
Regattas, swimming events and ski club events can restrict part or all of the lake. A whole-lake closure can also close key ramps. Check what's on the lake this weekend and the Shire's Lake Nagambie closures page before leaving home.
If you are visiting during rowing season, read the rowing regattas visitor guide.
06Common questions
Do I need a licence to drive a boat on Lake Nagambie? Yes. Victoria requires a marine licence to operate any powered recreational vessel, and a jet ski needs a personal watercraft endorsement on top. Check requirements with Safe Transport Victoria.
What is the speed limit on Lake Nagambie? Powered vessels have a 20 knot maximum under the rules introduced in 2025, with lower limits in signed areas, anti-clockwise travel and a non-powered rowing course. Follow the signs and markers on the day.
Can you water ski on Lake Nagambie? Yes, within the signed zones and the 2025 rules. Keep clear of the rowing course, slow down near ramps and paddlers, and check the current zone map on the Strathbogie Shire boating page before launching.
Where can I hire a boat or kayak in Nagambie? Go Adventure Nagambie hires tinnies, kayaks, paddleboards and pontoon boats from the Nagambie Lakes Regatta Centre. Confirm availability with them before you travel.