Four men rescued by ferry skipper after their boat capsized off Hillarys

Four men were rescued after their boat capsized in heavy seas off Perth’s northern coastline on Monday evening.

Police were called around 6pm following reports that a vessel was in distress off Pinnaroo Point.

The 5.7-meter aluminum half-cabin cruiser, returning from Rottnest Island, overturned due to strong waves, causing all four people on board to fall into the water.

A multi-agency rescue operation was coordinated by the Water Police Coordination Centre.

Water Police vessels and Australian Border Force boats were deployed and a nearby Rottnest Fast Ferries catamaran was quickly diverted for assistance.

The crew on the ferry arrived at the scene and rescued four people, aged between 19 and 50, who were clinging to the partially submerged hull of the capsized boat.

They were transported to Hillarys Boat Harbor where St John WA paramedics assessed them and treated them for minor non-life-threatening injuries.

The incident was one of several water-related emergencies coordinated by the Water Police in recent days amid intense summer conditions.

Police reminded boaters that conditions can change quickly and many incidents can be prevented with proper preparations.

As boating activity increases during the summer months, Water Police urge captains and passengers to check weather forecasts before heading out, understand predicted conditions and be aware of potential hazards.

Vessel operators are also reminded to ensure that boats are mechanically sound and equipped with working safety equipment, including EPIRBs, marine radios, flares and life jackets.

Police say life jackets should be worn at all times, especially in rough ocean conditions.

More information and boating safety checklists are available at: Adventure Smart.