The regulations, published under the National Water Act, are expected to apply to hundreds of state-owned dams (estimated around 320 nationally managed waterworks) — meaning the impact could be widespread for boaters, anglers, and water sport enthusiasts.

While the intention is said to improve safety, environmental protection, and management of these water resources, the proposals have already sparked strong reactions from the boating community, with some calling them excessive and difficult to implement.

What’s Changing?

Restricted access to dams
Access to many dams may require formal approval from a managing authority, landowner, or leaseholder — a major shift from the more open access many users are used to.

Possible paid access or licensing
There are growing concerns that users may need to pay for access or obtain licences to boat or swim at public dams, raising questions about affordability and fairness.

More red tape for everyday use
Activities like events, filming, or even organised recreational use could require multiple approvals and agreements, adding layers of admin for clubs and businesses.

“The draft regulations provide that taking pictures at a dam is an ‘illegal activity’. Photographers may not ‘access’ the land next to the water surface, without concluding five agreements with (the) Department of Water and Sanistation,” said Dr Igor Scheurkogel MP and the DA’s NCOP Spokesperson on Water and Sanitation.

Stricter boating compliance
All vessels must meet national safety requirements, and access can be denied if documentation or equipment is not in order.

“The owner of a travelling vessel to a waterworks must report to a wash bay at a waterworks. Should there be no wash bay, the Competent Authority, lessee or landowner will ensure that the vessel and trailer are clean with no visible plant material on the vessel or trailer prior to launching,” it stated in the Government Gazette.

Environmental & fishing controls
New rules aim to protect biodiversity, including limits on fishing methods, stricter waste management, and bans on introducing species without approval.

No spearfishing or crossbow fishing will be allowed.

Night-Time & noise restrictions
Night boating will largely require approval, and strict noise curfews could change the social and recreational atmosphere at many dams.

Excessive noise generating activities include loud music, engine revving and unruly behaviour.

People will only be allowed to sleep overnight on the water if they are in officially designated overnight areas and on boats that have been specifically approved through a commercial agreement with the authorities. In simple terms, you can’t just anchor anywhere and stay the night — it must be a permitted area and an approved vessel. Boats also cannot be used as permanent homes or long-term places to live on the water.

In addition, any boat with a toilet or sanitation system must safely store waste in a holding tank and dispose of it properly on land using approved sewer systems. Boat owners will also need to keep detailed records of how and when waste is removed and disposed of, and these records must be kept for up to four years. The authorities can request to inspect these records at any time.

Why these regulations are causing concern

Critics argue the regulations could limit public access, introduce unnecessary bureaucracy, and impact tourism and small businesses that rely on dam-based activities.

“If these regulations came into effect, every single business next to dams regardless whether or not on the shoreline, like Alida Botha that owns Fish Busters, a fishing tackle store in Deneysville will have to sign a Private Public Partnership because she is ‘generating’ money from the Vaal Dam,” Scheurkogel said.

Anyone who fails to comply with these rules will be seen as committing an offence under the Act and, if found guilty, could face a fine or even jail time.

Click here to read or download the proposed regulations published in the Government Gazette.

When investing in a boat engine, one of the most common questions boaters ask is: “How long will it last?” The lifespan of a Suzuki outboard motor depends on several factors, including how often it is used, how well it is maintained, and the conditions in which it operates. However, with proper use, regular service and care, a quality outboard can provide many years and often thousands of hours of reliable performance on the water.

Average lifespan of a Suzuki outboard

On average, a well-maintained Suzuki outboard motor can last between 1 500 and 3 000+ operating hours before requiring major repairs or overhaul. For many recreational boaters who use their boats on weekends or during holidays, this can translate to 10 – 20 years of dependable use.

Commercial operators who use their engines daily may reach those hours faster, but even in demanding conditions, Suzuki outboards are designed for durability and long-term reliability.

What affects the lifespan of an outboard motor?

Several factors play a role in how long your outboard motor will last:

1. Regular maintenance
Routine servicing is a very important factor in extending engine life. This includes oil changes, replacing filters, checking spark plugs, and inspecting key components. Following the recommended service schedule helps keep the engine running smoothly and prevents minor issues from becoming costly problems.

2. Operating conditions
Engines used in saltwater environments may experience more wear due to corrosion if not properly flushed and cleaned after each use. Regular rinsing with fresh water helps protect the engine’s internal components.

3. How the engine is used
Consistently running an engine at maximum throttle or carrying heavy loads can increase wear over time. Operating within recommended RPM ranges and avoiding unnecessary strain can significantly extend engine life.

4. Storage and care
Proper storage especially during the off season is essential. Keeping the engine clean, protected from the elements, and stored correctly helps prevent corrosion and mechanical issues.

Built for longevity

One of the reasons many boaters choose Suzuki outboards is their reputation for durability. Suzuki Marine engines are engineered with advanced technologies designed to improve efficiency, reduce wear, and deliver smooth, reliable power over the long term.

Features such as corrosion resistant materials, efficient fuel systems, and precision engineering all contribute to extending the lifespan of the engine while maintaining consistent performance.

How to maximize the life of your outboard

To ensure your outboard lasts as long as possible, follow a few simple best practices:

• • Service your engine regularly according to the manufacturer’s schedule.
  • Flush the engine with fresh water after saltwater use.
  • Use quality fuel and oil recommended for your motor.
  • Store the engine properly during periods of non-use.
  • Inspect the propeller and cooling system regularly for damage or blockages.

A long-term investment

A Suzuki outboard motor is built to provide years of reliable performance, making it a smart long-term investment for boat owners. With proper care, many Suzuki outboards continue running efficiently well beyond their expected lifespan, allowing boaters to enjoy countless hours of adventure, fishing, and exploration on the water.

Whether you’re a weekend angler or a dedicated explorer, maintaining your outboard properly ensures it remains a dependable companion for many seasons to come.

Contact us to book your next service with Nauti-Tech Suzuki.

Many skippers overlook it. Some forget to clip it on. Others think it’s unnecessary on calm days. The truth? The kill switch is one of the most important safety features on any vessel fitted with an outboard motor.

What is a boat kill switch?

A kill switch is a safety mechanism connected to your boat’s ignition system. It usually consists of:

• A red coiled lanyard

• A clip that attaches to the skipper

• A switch connected to the engine

If the skipper is thrown from the helm — whether due to a sudden wave, sharp turn, collision, or unexpected movement — the lanyard pulls free and immediately shuts off the engine.

No skipper. No throttle. No runaway boat.

Why this switch is so important

1️⃣ Prevents Runaway Boats

If a boat continues moving at speed without anyone at the controls, it can circle back unpredictably or travel uncontrolled across the water. This poses serious danger to passengers, nearby vessels, swimmers, and the skipper in the water.

2️⃣ Reduces Risk of Propeller Injuries

An active propeller is one of the biggest hazards on a boat. Shutting the engine down instantly dramatically lowers the risk of severe injuries.

3️⃣ Protects Passengers

In smaller vessels — especially boats powered by outboard motors — a sudden jolt can easily unseat the skipper. The kill switch ensures passengers aren’t left in a moving boat without control.

4️⃣ It’s a Legal Requirement in Many Areas

In several countries and jurisdictions, using an engine cut-off switch while underway is mandatory. Even where it’s not legally enforced, it’s considered best practice in boating safety guidelines worldwide.

READ: Holidaymaker seriously injured by runaway boat in Stilbaai

When should you use a kill switch?

The answer is simple: Every time you operate your boat.

Whether you’re:

• Fishing offshore

• Towing a skier

• Cruising inland waters

• Testing your outboard motor

Clip it on. Calm water doesn’t eliminate risk — unexpected movement can happen in seconds.

Best practices for kill switch safety

• Always attach the lanyard to your wrist, life jacket, or secure clothing point.

• Test that it functions correctly during routine maintenance.

• Replace worn or damaged lanyards.

• Ensure passengers know what the device is and how it works.

Boat safety starts with responsibility

At Nauti-Tech Suzuki, we’re passionate about performance, reliability, and proper boat maintenance — but safety always comes first. A powerful outboard motor is only as safe as the skipper operating it.

The kill switch may be small, but it plays a massive role in safe boating practices, outboard motor safety, and preventing serious accidents on the water.

Clip it on. Every trip. No exceptions.

Whether your ideal day involves chasing fish offshore, cruising with family, or exploring the coastline, now is the perfect time to start planning your boating season.

Every great boating season starts with a plan

The most enjoyable boating experiences rarely happen by accident. A little early planning can make the difference between a smooth, stress-free season and one interrupted by unexpected issues.

Consider what you’d like your time on the water to look like this year:

• Long fishing trips

• Relaxed family cruises

• Offshore adventures

• Watersports and leisure days

Your boating goals play a major role in how your boat — and more importantly, your engine — should perform.

Match your Suzuki outboard to your boating style

Not all boating experiences demand the same performance. Choosing the right outboard setup can dramatically improve efficiency, reliability, and overall enjoyment.

For anglers and offshore enthusiasts

If your season involves covering distance, battling conditions, and long hours at sea, reliability and fuel efficiency are critical.

Suzuki outboards are known for:

• Exceptional fuel economy

• Smooth, quiet operation

• Proven offshore reliability

• Low running costs

For family cruising and leisure boating

Comfort, ease of handling, and quiet performance often take priority.

A well-matched Suzuki outboard offers:

• Effortless power delivery

• Reduced vibration and noise

• Easy manoeuvrability

• Confidence on the water

The right engine setup isn’t just about speed — it’s about matching performance to lifestyle.

Why early upgrades and repowers make sense

Many boat owners wait until performance issues become obvious. By then, downtime, delays, and peak-season workshop demand often complicate matters.

Upgrading or repowering early in the year allows you to:

• Avoid seasonal workshop congestion

• Maximise time on the water

• Improve fuel efficiency

• Increase reliability and safety

• Enhance resale value

Repowering with a Suzuki outboard can transform the boating experience, delivering noticeable improvements in performance, economy, and peace of mind.

Plan smarter, not later

Early-season planning also opens the door to practical financial benefits.

Depending on your needs, options may include:

• Trade-ins on existing motors

• Flexible finance solutions

• Tailored upgrade advice

Exploring these options early removes pressure and allows for better decision-making.

Set your season up for success

Your boating season should be defined by memorable days on the water — not unexpected mechanical problems.

At Nauti-Tech Suzuki, we help boat owners:

• Assess engine performance

• Plan upgrades and repowers

• Maintain Suzuki outboards

• Optimise boat setups

Speak to our team about servicing, upgrades, or repowering your boat for the season ahead.

Because the best boating seasons are the ones you plan for.

If you own a boat, you’ll know there’s nothing like getting out on the water, hitting the throttle, and letting the wind blow your hair back. Exhilarating stuff.

And, with a couple of public holidays and long weekends coming up, we know you’re going to find every opportunity to hit the open water.

But it might not be all calm water. Like with any motorised or mechanical vehicle (especially one subjected to the elements), some issues will surface from time to time. But fear not, we’re going to break down some of the common boat problems possibly causing your breakdown.

What are some common boat problems you might face?

How long is a piece of string?

This question comes to mind when wanting to make a list of common boat problems.

There are many places on a boat that can ruin your day on the water, sometimes even before you launch.

Want to keep ahead of any common boat problems before they surface? Check out our boat service schedule.

A good boat is a sum of all its parts.

When everything on your boat is working well, the chances of issues cropping up are less.

So if we took the long list above, and segmented it, you’re looking at issues with the hull, electrical problems, engine troubles, and wear and tear on your rigging. 

Hull Issues

From water leaks to propeller damage, hull problems can compromise your boat’s integrity and seaworthiness.

Electrical Problems

Faulty switches, failing pumps, and faulty connections can lead to electrical malfunctions, leaving you stranded on the water.

Engine Troubles

Whether it’s running out of gas or dealing with sputtering engine failure, engine issues can quickly turn a pleasant voyage into a frustrating ordeal.

Wear and Tear on Rigging

Excessive vibration, worn-out spark plugs, and damaged stringers can all contribute to wear and tear on your boat’s rigging, affecting its performance and safety.

Prevention is often better than cure. So by keeping an eye on your boat and its components, you could most likely resolve something before it turns into a problem.

Read our 11 Crucial Checks to Get at Your Next Boat Service.

Find a great boat repair shop near you to fix common boat problems

By simply having conversations with others in the boating community, their word-of-mouth recommendations could put you in touch with a great shop. Online reviews on Google and social media are also good indicators of great service (or not).

Check out our helpful guide to navigating boat repairs.

And if you’re in Gqeberha (Port Elizabeth) we’d love to show you our workshop.

How to book a service or boat repairs with Nauti-Tech Suzuki

It’s very simple to book a service with us. You can do so in any of the following ways:

• Phone 041 585 1481 (PE)
• Email hello@nautitechsuzuki.com 
• WhatsApp +27 61 512 7498
• Contact us via the website
• Or drop by at 5 Produce Street in South End, PE.

Time for a new outboard motor? Learn more about Suzuki’s Offset Driveshaft.

ALL NEW BOATS

Plus: Deep sea, ski-boat, river or cabin cruisers: See all our custom-built new boats. And discover everything we’ve repowered, refitted, refurbed and all new launches + their motors, all under our collective of boats.

THE PURSUIT OF AWESOME

Legend also has it that most boats run better under Suzuki power. Discover it for yourself among these Suzuki outboards.

BE THE FIRST TO KNOW

To ensure you always get first dibs on the latest deals and be the first to know about news, events and special offers by joining the Nauti-Tech Suzuki Facebook community and signing up for our newsletter.

—
Need to refurbish, refit and revive your boat? Take a peek inside our award-winning Suzuki Marine workshop.

Whether you’re a seasoned sailor or a nautical newbie, boat repairs are part and parcel of life on the water. Follow our guide, and you’ll be well on your way to getting back on the water.

What are some common issues to repair on a boat?

Common issues include hull damage, electrical problems, engine troubles, and rigging wear. 

Regular servicing can help catch these issues before they escalate and ruin your day on the water. Check out our boat service schedule.

How to find a good boat repair shop near you

Nothing better than word-of-mouth recommendations from others in the boating community. Online reviews on Google and social media are also good indicators of great service (or not).

Don’t hesitate to ask the shop questions about their expertise and experience. Good repair shops are transparent, communicative, and willing to provide references.

We’d love to show you our workshop.

How can you tell if a boat repair shop is any good?

Start by having a conversation with them. Ask about their experience, find out about any certifications they have, and how much experience they have with dealing with your specific type of boat.

Also, observe their attention to detail and commitment to quality workmanship. A reputable repair shop will gladly showcase their skills and stand behind their work.

Oftentimes, they’ll also be passionate about boating and will have many great experiences to share.

Also: Upgrade your vessel with our state-of-the-art range of boating tech.

How much do boat repairs cost?

How long is a piece of rope?  

Boat repair costs vary widely depending on the type of repairs needed and the extent of the damage to repair. You also need to factor in things like parts, the labour (hourly) to carry out the repairs, and consumables like oil etc. It’s always a good idea to get multiple quotes but remember, quality often comes with a price and cheap doesn’t always ensure cheerful.

Talk to our team of professional, friendly Nauti-Tech Suzuki technicians. We’re always ready to give advice and answer your questions.

How to book a service or boat repairs with Nauti-Tech Suzuki

It’s very simple to book a service with us. You can do so in any of the following ways:

• Phone 041 585 1481 (PE)
• Email hello@nautitechsuzuki.com 
• WhatsApp +27 61 512 7498
• Contact us via the website
• Or drop by at 5 Produce Street in South End, PE.

ALL NEW BOATS

Plus: Deep sea, ski-boat, river or cabin cruisers: See all our custom-built new boats. And discover everything we’ve repowered, refitted, refurbed and all new launches + their motors, all under our collective of boats.

THE PURSUIT OF AWESOME

Legend also has it that most boats run better under Suzuki power. Discover it for yourself among these Suzuki outboards.

BE THE FIRST TO KNOW

To ensure you always get first dibs on the latest deals and be the first to know about news, events and special offers by joining the Nauti-Tech Suzuki Facebook community and signing up for our newsletter.

—
Need to refurbish, refit and revive your boat? Take a peek inside our award-winning Suzuki Marine workshop.

Powerful. Reliable. And Super fuel-efficient. Suzuki has once again been announced as the number one best-selling outboard in South Africa in 2023.

In fact, for the last four years running,  Suzuki has topped outboard sales in SA.

BEST-SELLING OUTBOARDS BRAND ’20, ’21, ’22 and ’23: SUZUKI

This year again, more people bought Suzuki 4-stroke outboards in South Africa than any other brand. Almost every second outboard sold in the country was a Suzuki outboard, let’s find out why…

NO 1 BEST-SELLING OUTBOARD: SUZUKI DF100

One of the lightest outboards in its class, able to reduce vibration and provide more stable steering performance, while ensuring you burn fuel cleanly – not to mention its size, which makes it ideal for both smaller and larger applications if you double-up – the No 1 best-selling outboard of 2021 is the Suzuki DF100.

See the Best-Selling Suzuki DF100 In Action

Here’s a look at the performance of the new Suzuki DF100 BTL on Rick Lobb’s new Indigo 450…

Suzuki DF100 Reviews

Here’s the professional opinion of the Suzuki DF100 from global outboard journalist Maurizio Bulleri of the Boat Show…

NO 2 BEST-SELLING OUTBOARD: SUZUKI DF140

Higher compression ratio. More torque. And much easier maintenance. Just a few months after the new BG drive-by-wire version launched as one of the hottest new Suzuki outboards, it is crowned as one of the top 2 best-selling outboards of the year. Discover the Suzuki DF140. 

Learn more about Suzuki’s Offset Driveshaft in theDF140.

See the Best-Selling Suzuki DF140 In Action

Here’s what happened when we fitted a brand-new Suzuki DF140 to Grant May’s 17ft BayMaster…

And, if you’re wondering what happens if you double up on them, here’s a look at the power and performance Rainer Von Schuetz gets from his new twin Suzuki DF140s…

Suzuki DF140 Reviews

Here’s another PRO review from the Boat Show on the Suzuki DF140 drive-by-wire BG…

THE BEST OUTBOARD MOTOR FOR SALTWATER, FRESH – BIG OR SMALL

Does that make Suzuki the best outboard of all? Well, we can’t say that. Because your choice of outboard depends on a lot of things – your preferences, your pocket, your performance needs and how fuel-efficient you need to be.

But we can tell you that Suzuki doesn’t only sell the most outboards in SA, it’s also often a little cheaper (or at least very well priced), and is known to give a remarkable performance with amazing fuel efficiency, thanks to patented tech like Suzuki Lean Burn.

Plus, of course, Suzuki is the most awarded outboard maker in the world – see all of Suzuki’s top award-winning outboard motors.

And, Suzukis come in every size and setup you could ever want – check out all these impressive Suzuki outboards.

PLUS: DISCOVER WHY EVERYONE LOVES SUZUKI

Better engineering. More power. Less fuel. And more boating pleasure. Here are 11 reasons from one of the most recognised outboard specialists and #BoatPros on why choose a Suzuki for your boat.

AND SEE THE LATEST NEW SUZUKI OUTBOARDS

From the latest racy RED SS Series DF200 ASTL to the awesome new drive-by-wire Suzuki DF140BG, these are all the new Suzuki outboard motors to discover.

See the entire collection of awesome video fishing tips.

ALL NEW BOATS

Plus: Deep sea, ski-boat, river or cabin cruisers: See all our custom-built new boats. And discover everything we’ve repowered, refitted, refurbed and all new launches + their motors, all under our collective of boats.

THE PURSUIT OF AWESOME

Legend also has it that most boats run better under Suzuki power. Discover it for yourself among these Suzuki outboards.

—

BE THE FIRST TO KNOW

To ensure you always get first dibs on the latest deals and be the first to know about news, events and special offers by joining the Nauti-Tech Suzuki Facebook community and signing up for our newsletter.

—
Need to refurbish, refit and revive your boat? Take a peek inside our award-winning Suzuki Marine workshop.

A brand-new shop, the same awesome service and now even closer to the harbour. Yes, it’s official, from 1 August 2022, Nauti-Tech Suzuki is now at our new address of 5 produce Street in South End, PE.

Here’s how to find us, a map to help you along and a few good reasons to come and check out the new shop today.

Our New Address in PE

As most people in PE and the industry will know, we suffered a tragic and catastrophic fire at our previous premises in Brickmakerskloof Road earlier this year. And we’ve been working from a small makeshift space for the past few months.

And, unfortunately, the fire had caused structural damage to the building we occupied, meaning repairs would take very long. So we sourced a brand-new space at a new address that’s quite close to the harbour entrance. And it’s a beauty, we’d love for you to come pop in and see…

Find us at

5 Produce Produce Street, South End, Port Elizabeth

Map to New Nauti-Tech Suzuki Shop

To make it even easier to find, here’s a Google Map – just click it, hit directions and it’ll guide you straight to our new address.

What Services Do We Offer Again?

As you know, we are the official Suzuki Marine dealer for Port Elizabeth. So, yes, this is where you get your new Suzuki outboards for sale, service, repairs etc. But we also have a full boat workshop where we do maintenance, services, repairs, refurbishments, boat repowers and fitment for all boats and outboards, including jet skis and any boating tech you need.

Also learn how to keep the ultimate boat service schedule.

Plus: find out exactly what’s done during a boat service.

What’s more, we also offer a wide range of the best in new boats for sale, including top brands such as CarryCat Ski-Boats, Atomic Sport Fishers, Flamingo Cabin Cruisers, Bandit Utility Boats and even the super-sleek Nauti-Tech Party Barge.

Plus: We have a whole lot of super high-quality pre-owned outboards and boats for sale – all tested and vetted by our technicians. See what’s available among our second hand boats.

How to Contact Us

Have a question? Need advice? Or just want to talk?

Phone us at 041 585 1481.

Or, just pop in at our new address at 5 Produce Street. South End, Port Elizabeth and come check out the new store.

See you soon!

ALL NEW BOATS

Deep sea, ski-boat, river or cabin cruisers: See all our custom-built new boats. And discover everything we’ve repowered, refitted, refurbed and all new launches + their motors, all under our collective of boats.

THE PURSUIT OF AWESOME

Legend also has it that most boats run better under Suzuki power. Discover it for yourself among these Suzuki outboards.

—

BE THE FIRST TO KNOW

To ensure you always get first dibs on the latest deals and be the first to know about news, events and special offers by joining the Nauti-Tech Suzuki Facebook community and signing up for our newsletter.

—
Need to refurbish, refit and revive your boat? Take a peek inside our award-winning Suzuki Marine workshop.

51 trillion tonnes of plastic. You and your mates hitting the water. And you’re saving the world too! You can mark today on your calendar because this is the first time in history you can tell people you’re going fishing to save the planet. This thanks to Suzuki inventing the world’s first microplastic collection device for Suzuki outboards.

And, yes! It literally means that your motor will be cleaning up those microscopic bits of plastic that are killing our oceans every time you go out fishing.

Here’s what you need to know:

https://www.facebook.com/146372395432172/videos/660144694683883/

THE WORLD’S FIRST MICROPLASTIC COLLECTION DEVICE FOR OUTBOARDS

Suzuki has developed a new device that fits into your Suzuki outboard that actually filters out and collects micro-plastics in the water as you boat. 

Now, there’s a lot of plastic in our oceans, and Suzuki has always been about using technology to give you the performance you want while still being good for the environment – read about Suzuki Lean Burn and fuel-saving tech for your boat – but this is the first time any outboard manufacturer has come up with such a unique, elegant and simple way to make a difference every time you hit the water.

HOW SUZUKI’S NEW MICRIOPLASTIC COLLECTOR WORKS

It may not look like much. A few bits of black piping with a filter inside. But this device connects to your motor’s water cooling system, and just filters out microscopic bits of plastic that would otherwise have ended up ingested by fish, marine mammals and seabirds – and often land up right on your own dinner plate at home!

https://www.facebook.com/313104275428437/videos/332535524481779/

The microplastic collection device is easily attached your outboard’s return hose. And it won’t impact your performance at all, since it only filters the water after it’s been through the motor’s cooling cycle – so it’s water your outboard would have just pumped back into the ocean anyway.

The difference is that now you’re pumping clean, plastic-free water back into the ocean. Don’t let anyone ever try to keep you at home again – you’ll literally be saving the planet every minute you’re out on your boat!

HANG ON: WHY IS FILTERING MICRIOLASTIC SO IMPORTANT? 

According to experts at the Two Oceans Aquarium in Cape Town, right now there are about 51 trillion pieces of plastic in our oceans – that’s 500 times as many stars there are in our Milky Way galaxy! And that’s because we humans dump about 8 million tonnes of plastic into the oceans every year.

In fact, about 80% of all the pollution in the ocean is plastic. Some experts estimate the combined weight of all the plastic in the ocean could exceed that of all ocean fish pretty soon. And that’s bad news for anglers – actually everyone!

And the most dangerous of these toxic menaces is microplastic – microscopic bits of plastic that end up ingested and killing ocean life.

Look, we just have to find more ways to get the plastic out of the ocean and keep it out. That’s why Suzuki has been running its Clean Oceans Project for the past 10 years – which is exactly what the new microplastic collection device is commemorating.

JUST FOR FUN: HOW LONG WOULD IT TAKE TO CLEAN UP OUR OCEANS?

You can actually work it out. Since the new Suzuki microplastic collection device filters your outboard’s water for cooling, we can estimate that at low RPMs it filters about 4000 litres per minute, the same as your average garden hose – because that’s what we use to flush an outboard.

But, there’s an awful lot of water in the ocean.

To filter just the first 10 kilometres along South Africa’s 2800km stretch of coastline up to a depth of just 1 metre, you’d have to give every man, woman and child in South Africa (57 odd millions of us) each a Suzuki-powered boat. And it would still take 11 years!

But if you gave everyone a CarryCat with two motors, we could do it in maybe 6 years or so.

So what are you waiting for?

ABOUT THE NEW SUZUKI MICROPALSTIC COLLECTION DEVICE

This new device will be available as an optional extra on all Suzuki outboards from 2021 onwards. And it will also become a standard feature on all new outboards in the future.

For more information, chat with us.

ABOUT OUR SUZUKI CLEAN OCEAN PROJECT

As we said, the new device was created to coincide with 10 years of Suzuki Clean Ocean Project. Since 2010, Suzuki has organised over 8000 people from 26 countries to clean up our water sources – not just the ocean, but lakes, rivers, dams and ponds too.

And it’s not stopping there. The cleanups will continue, plus: From now on, Suzuki is starting to replace all of its plastic parts packaging with paper – it’s much better for the environment. Doing so will help Suzuki use at least 2.3 tonnes less plastic use every year. Another reason to get your Suzuki genuine parts and boating tech from our workshop.

Think about it, you’ll be helping save the planet just by booking your next service with us.

SAVE THE WORLD: GET A SUZUKI

Now also the only outboard that gives you the ultimate excuse to go fishing: “But I’m saving the planet!” Suzuki outboards.

NEW ATOMIC BOATS

Just arrived: New mono-hull boats with latest in design tech. Check out the new Atomic 22 Sport Fisher.

ALL NEW BOATS

Plus: Deep sea, ski-boat, river or cabin cruisers: See all our custom-built new boats. And discover everything we’ve repowered, refitted, refurbed and all new launches + their motors, all under our collective of boats.

—

BE THE FIRST TO KNOW

Ensure you always get first dibs on the latest deals and be the first to know about fishing news, events and special offers by joining the Nauti-Tech Suzuki Facebook community and signing up for our newsletter.

—
Need to refurbish, refit or revive your boat? Take a peek inside our award-winning boat workshop.

What’s the right way to flush an outboard motor? Suzuki, Yamaha, Mercury – yes, you do need to flush an outboard you use on salt water with fresh water from time to time. Although today’s technology is quite good, most manufacturers still recommend you flush your outboard after every trip on the ocean or estuary.

One of the top commercial marine and private boating experts in sub-Sharan Africa shows us the clever way to do it.

WATCH: HOW TO FLUSH AN OUTBOARD MOTOR

https://www.facebook.com/SuzukiMarineSA/videos/350556102741203

In this video, Gary Bluett of Odyssea Marine in Zimbabwe, a renowned #BoatPro in both the private and especially the commercial marine sector in the area, demonstrates why and how you need to flush an outboard – in just 6 minutes.

We’ve captured some of Gary’s most important points here:

THE FAST WAY TO FLUSH AN OUTBOARD

WHY DO YOU NEED TO FLUSH YOUR OUTBOARD MOTOR?

Gary reminds us that even if you’re not using your boat in the ocean, there’s still lots of salt and sediment inside our rivers, lakes and estuaries. And, especially if you’ve been around shallow fresh or saltwater, you need to flush your outboard.

HOW OFTEN DO YOU NEED TO FLUSH AN OUTBOARD? 

Although the anti-corrosion technology has greatly improved in recent years – see the video on why choose a Suzuki outboard – Gary reminds us that the salt and sediment in the water can build up and block the outlet ports in your outboard. That’s why most manufacturers still say you should flush your outboard after every use.

STEP BY STEP: 6-MINUTE OUTBOARD FLUSH

Gary shows how it’s done using Suzuki’s reverse-flush system as an example – all manufacturers have a largely similar system for flushing, although not all are quite as fast and advanced as the Suzuki outboards. But the basic steps are the same:

1. Switch off the outboard motor – never flush with the motor running.
2. Remove the plug from the port – with the Suzuki, it’s an easy-to-reach side port with a plug that just pulls out fast.
3. Insert the flush fitting – it’s a fitting that allows you to connect a hosepipe to the port in your outboard.
4. Open the water and let it flush for 5–6 minutes – remember to do this while the motor is off.
5. Remove the hosepipe and the flush fitting – replace your plug and you’re good to go!

ABOUT GARY BLUETT

Gary is well known in both the commercial marine and private boating sectors, supplying parts, products and services throughout Southern Africa. His Odyssea Marine is an official Suzuki Marine dealership in Zimbabwe, although he’s a well-known face from South Africa to further into Africa too.

Phone Gary via Odyssea on +263 77 240 1371 or email him at gary@trumach.com.

ABOUT THIS #GETBOATING SERIES

Our boating series comes courtesy of Suzuki Marine South Africa’s #SuziFlix project, and the SA network of Suzuki dealers we call #BoatPros. You can be part of the vibe by following Suzuki Marine SA on Facebook and YouTube.

WATCH: From the meaning of boating to accessories online and where to get your boating license, to reasons to start boating, 34+ boating dams and lakes in SA and more. Here’s what you should know about boating.

Also, see how to find our shop at our new address.

THE PURSUIT OF AWESOME

Legend also has it that most boats run better under Suzuki power. Discover it for yourself among these Suzuki outboards.

ALL NEW BOATS

Plus: Deep sea, ski-boat, river or cabin cruisers: See all our custom-built new boats. And discover everything we’ve repowered, refitted, refurbed and all new launches + their motors, all under our collective of boats.

—

BE THE FIRST TO KNOW

Ensure you always get first dibs on the latest deals and be the first to know about fishing news, events and special offers by joining the Nauti-Tech Suzuki Facebook community and signing up for our newsletter.

Did you know we are the new dealer for Garmin Marine in Port Elizabeth.

—
Need to refurbish, refit or revive your boat? Take a peek inside our award-winning boat workshop.