Four men have been rescued after their vessel capsized off Perth's northern coastline on Monday, 22 December 2025.
About 6.00pm, police received reports of a vessel in distress approximately 2.5 nautical miles off Pinnaroo Point. A 5.7-metre aluminium half-cabin cruiser returning from Rottnest Island capsized in heavy swell, throwing all four occupants into the water.
A multi-agency response was coordinated by the Water Police Coordination Centre in North Fremantle. Water Police and Australian Border Force vessels were deployed, along with the Rottnest Fast Ferries Ocean Master catamaran, which was in the vicinity and promptly diverted to the scene.
Crews on board the ferry reached the stricken vessel and rescued all four men, aged between 19 and 50-years-old, who were clinging to the partially submerged hull. They were taken to Hillarys Boat Harbour where they were assessed by St John WA paramedics and treated for minor, non-life-threatening injuries.
Further incidents across the state were coordinated by Water Police in recent days, including multiple reports of shark sightings along the coast. A call for a vessel in distress was received off Hillarys about 6.30pm on Sunday, 21 December 2025, where a jet ski rider was rescued by volunteers from Marine Rescue Whitfords, with aerial support provided by the Police Air Wing helicopter, after being overturned by a large wave and experiencing mechanical issues.
Western Australia has the longest mainland coastline in the country, stretching more than 12,000 kilometres, providing countless opportunities for boating and water activities. However, conditions can change rapidly, and many incidents are preventable with appropriate planning and preparation.
As Western Australians enjoy the coastline and waterways this summer, Water Police remind skippers and passengers that preparation is critical to a safe and enjoyable day on the water. This includes checking the weather forecast, understanding predicted conditions and being aware of potential hazards before heading out.
Vessel operators are urged to ensure their vessel is mechanically sound and seaworthy, and that all safety equipment is present and in serviceable condition, including registered and operational EPIRBs, marine radios, flares and lifejackets. Lifejackets should always be worn, particularly in challenging conditions.
Further information, including useful checklists and guides on water safety, is available at https://www.adventuresmart.org.au/safety-areas/water-safety/  ;
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