NSW Deputy Premier and Minister for Police John Watkins warned boat owners to take extra care this summer after the latest figures revealed there had been at least 348 incidents on the water this year, which claimed 13 lives.

"There are 450,000 licenced recreational boaters in NSW and each and every one of them has a duty to keep our waterways safe. "Alcholol and boats can be a lethal combination ... Getting behind the controls of a boat after drinking can have deadly consequences."

The penalities for controlling a boat under the influence of alcohol are in line with the tough fines and suspension dealt out to motories in the same circumstances.

The blood alcohol limits are also similar:

• Recreation boat operators (under 18) - no alcohol
• Recreational Boat operators (over 18) - under 0.05
• Commercial Boat Operators - under 0.02

"NSW Police's Marine Area Command has conducted over 4,800 Random Breath Tests along the NSW coastline this year. There does seem to be a perception among a small number of people that it's ok to drive a boat after a few drinks, but it's dangerous, if not more dangerous, than getting behind the wheel of a car while under the influence."

"Summer is a great time for families and friends to get out on the water but with the increase in boat traffic it can also be the most dangerous time. "It's also when boating enthusiasts are more likely to be tempted by a few drinks before getting behind the controls of a boat, which can prove deadly" Mr Watkins said.

Mr Watkins said there were 348 reported incidents involving boats this year, including water skiing accidents, vessel collisions, boat capsizes and people drowning after falling overboad. He said 13 people died, 46 people were seriously injured and a further 89 suffered minor injuries.