Paradise Point Channel speed limit trial
A consistent 6-knot limit for all vessels and jet skis
About the trial
A consistent 6-knot speed limit is being trialled in Paradise Point Channel, north of the Sovereign Islands bridge.
For 12 months, all vessels and jet skis travelling through the trial area must follow the 6-knot limit. This replaces the previous mix of speed requirements with one clear rule for this busy waterway.
GCWA will monitor the trial, provide an update after six months and report on the outcomes before deciding whether to introduce any longer-term arrangements.
- Start date: Monday 14 September 2026
- Duration: 12 months
- Speed limit: 6 knots
- Applies to: All vessels and jet skis
- Location: Paradise Point Channel north of the Sovereign Islands bridge
Why is GCWA running the trial?
Paradise Point Channel is a popular and busy waterway used by recreational boats, jet skis and other vessels. GCWA reviewed the existing 40-knot speed limit and how the channel is being used. The review considered marine incident and compliance data, observations of on-water behaviour and feedback from stakeholders.
The review found that many smaller boats and jet skis were not complying with the existing 6-knot “distance off” requirements when travelling close to anchored boats and private pontoons. These requirements differed depending on the type of vessel and how close they were to other waterway users, making them more difficult to interpret while travelling through the channel.
The trial will test whether one clear and consistent speed limit is easier to understand and follow, supports compliance and contributes to safer use of the channel
What does this mean for waterway users?
If you’re travelling through Paradise Point Channel north of the Sovereign Islands bridge, the speed limit during the trial is 6 knots.
The new limit applies equally to:
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Recreational boats
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Fishing boats
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Sailing vessels
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Jet skis
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Other vessels using the trial area
Waterway users should look for the new speed signs, check their speed and allow a few extra minutes for their journey through the channel. A consistent speed limit gives everyone more time to observe what is happening around them and respond safely while sharing the waterway.
How will the trial be monitored?
Throughout the 12-month trial, GCWA will evaluate how the new speed limit is working by considering a range of information, including:
🔎 Compliance with the speed limit
🔎 Marine incident data
🔎 Operational observations on the water
🔎 Public reports and community feedback
🔎 Feedback from relevant agencies and stakeholders
GCWA will provide a progress update after six months before completing a final evaluation at the end of the trial. The evidence gathered will help inform future speed-limit arrangements for Paradise Point Channel. No decision has been made about permanent arrangements.
What do waterway users need to do?
In the trial area:
✅ Maximum 6 knots for all vessels and jet skis
✅ Follow the new speed signs
✅ Maintain a proper lookout
✅ Travel safely and consider others
The 6-knot limit applies to all vessels and jet skis within the trial area.
Queensland waterway speed limits
For information about speed limits in other Queensland waterways, visit Schedule of speed limits in Queensland (Maritime Safety Queensland)
Have your say
You can provide feedback throughout the trial. Tell us about your experience using the Paradise Point Channel and how the 6-knot limit is working in practice.
