AN ALLEGED drunken boatie was among 14 vessel operators caught flouting the law at Lake Eildon last weekend.

The 38-year-old skipper had several passengers on board a 3.5 metres tinny when he was intercepted by the Water Police Squad about 5pm on Friday January 31.

He went positive on a preliminary breath test and allegedly blew 0.134 during an evidentiary breath test.

The Kilsyth man had his marine licence immediately suspended for six months and was fined $840.

The squad – which regularly patrols the popular waterway throughout summer – conducted more than 60 vessel inspections, licence checks and breath tests during last weekend’s deployment.

Eight further boaties were issued with infringement notices for:

• Operating a boat without a licence

• Failing to carry a lifejacket (x4)

• Towing a skier without an observer (x2)

• Failing to maintain safety gear

Water Police also had jet skis closely in their sights.

Four riders were caught allegedly speeding too close to shore or other vessels, while another was fined $988 for riding unlicensed.

The Water Police Squad will continue to have a highly visible presence at inland waterways this summer.

Several planned operations will take place across Victoria, on top of regular patrols.

“If you’re planning to drink, don’t get behind the wheel," said Water Police Acting Senior Sergeant Dave McHenry.

"We all know how devastating the consequences can be.

“Lifejackets also remain an issue.

"They are mandatory for jet ski riders, children under 12, solo boaties and in small boats up to and including 4.8 metres yet we still see people without them," he said.

“Police will continue to conduct breath tests, vessel inspections and licence checks to ensure everyone is playing their part this summer.”