TORONTO FISHING FIELD GUIDE
Squirt 5.2m: A compact day boat for sand‑island escapes and family fishing on Lake Macquarie
An open 5.2m day boat launched from RMYC Toronto for half- or full-day outings (with overnight hire available), ideal for small-group family fishing and sand‑island trips on Lake Macquarie.
Squirt 5.2m: A compact day boat for sand‑island escapes and family fishing on Lake Macquarie.
Adventure brief
Squirt 5.2m: A compact day boat for sand‑island escapes and family fishing on Lake Macquarie
Awaba Boat Hire’s Squirt is a 5.2m open day boat operated on Lake Macquarie out of Toronto, New South Wales. The vessel is rated for six passengers and is set up for day trips—family fishing or sand‑island excursions—and can also be hired overnight for camping on the lake; dogs are welcome aboard. The boat is powered by a 40 HP Mercury engine and is used for on‑lake exploration at speeds up to 20 knots.
Lake Macquarie, just south of Newcastle in New South Wales, Australia, ranks among the nation’s largest coastal saltwater lakes. Its sprawling 110-square-kilometer surface offers calm waters, hidden sand islands, and quiet coves perfect for anglers and day-trippers alike. At the heart of this vibrant aquatic playground, Awaba Boat Hire presents an inviting opportunity to get on the water with their Squirt 5.2m Fishing Boat.
This open day boat comfortably seats six and is ideal for a family fishing outing or a casual cruise to one of the lake’s pristine sand islands. Its 40 horsepower Mercury engine reaches speeds of up to 20 knots, striking an excellent balance between power and ease of handling, even for novices. For those who want to linger, overnight camping aboard the vessel marks a unique way to soak in the sunrise and embrace the lake’s quieter hours.
What sets Awaba Boat Hire apart is not just the accessibility of their vessel but the relaxed pet-friendly policy, making it a rare find for visitors who want to bring their dogs along. Safety remains front and center, with mandatory life jackets for children under 12 and an insurance-supported speed limit for unlicensed drivers ensuring peace of mind.
Launching from RMYC Toronto, the boat operates within clearly defined limits, offering a worry-free experience focused on the lake’s central channels and protected bays. The area features saltmarshes, mangroves, and native birdlife, including pelicans and sea eagles, enriching each trip with natural spectacle. As a longstanding fixture in local outdoor recreation, Awaba Boat Hire not only provides a vessel but an invitation to engage with one of Australia’s most welcoming and diverse lake environments. Whether it's casting a line or cruising to quiet beach spots, this experience is a gateway to authentic, hands-on adventure on Lake Macquarie.
Route Schematic
Route schematic and typical stops
A typical outing moves from the RMYC Toronto launch point to shallow island beaches and nearby fishing grounds, with the option to remain overnight.
RMYC Toronto (launch)
The Squirt is launched for you from RMYC Toronto as the trip’s embarkation point.
Sand island landing
Short runs across the lake to sand islands for beaching, swimming, picnicking or short walks are a primary use for this vessel.
Family fishing grounds
On‑lake fishing in sheltered spots around Lake Macquarie is a common activity aboard the open day boat.
Overnight anchorage (optional)
If hired overnight, the vessel can be used for camping on the lake, allowing a return to shore the following day.
Operators set strict vessel limits: do not leave Lake Macquarie, do not pass the plying limit in the channel, do not enter creeks, do not pass under bridges, and do not leave the vessel unattended. All children under 12 and anyone who cannot swim must wear a life jacket at all times; if you do not hold a boat licence you must not drive over 10 knots (doing so will void insurance). You are responsible for any fines or infringements.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
Sand‑island landings and shallow‑water exploration
Squirt is suited to Lake Macquarie sand‑island trips—small, short runs across sheltered lake water to beaches and shallow shores where families commonly land and explore.
Family fishing and easy day cruising
Configured as an open day boat, Squirt’s layout and capacity make it a straightforward platform for family fishing and relaxed cruising within the lake boundaries.
Overnight hire for on‑lake camping
The vessel may be hired overnight for camping on Lake Macquarie, allowing small groups to extend a day outing into a lakeside night under the stars.
What the day feels like
What being aboard feels like
The Squirt experience is compact and practical: launch from RMYC Toronto, cross sheltered stretches of Lake Macquarie, beach on sand islands for swims or picnic stops, and drop lines for family fishing before returning to the club or laying up for an overnight if hired. The vessel’s open layout and modest power make it straightforward to operate for short outings around the lake.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this boat suits—and who should consider alternatives.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
Hire is offered by the half day or full day; overnight hires are available for lake camping.
Bring appropriate flotation for children and non‑swimmers—by rule, all children under 12 and anyone who cannot swim must wear a life jacket at all times. Bring personal items for a sand‑island stop or overnight camping if hired.
The vessel launches from RMYC Toronto, carries up to six people, and must remain within Lake Macquarie’s operating limits (do not leave the lake, pass plying limits, enter creeks, or pass under bridges). Unlicensed operators must not exceed 10 knots.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
How many people can the Squirt carry?
The vessel is rated for six passengers (6 PAX).
Are dogs allowed on board?
Yes—dogs are welcome on this boat.
Where does the boat launch from?
The Squirt is launched for you from RMYC Toronto.
Can I hire the boat overnight?
Yes—the vessel can be hired overnight for camping on Lake Macquarie.
Do I need a boat licence to drive the Squirt?
If you do not have a boat licence you must not drive more than 10 knots; exceeding that limit will void insurance.
Are there mandatory safety rules for children or non‑swimmers?
Yes—every child under 12 and anyone who cannot swim must wear a life jacket at all times while on board.
How this guide was prepared
This field guide is synthesized using verified supplier specifications, route descriptions, and destination data. Some booking links may generate affiliate revenue for ADV Guides.
- Verified: 2026-09-14T12:08:30.772Z
Some booking links may generate revenue for ADV Guides or The Adventure Collective.
Availability, pricing, schedules and operating details can change.
Trip details and contextual sources were reviewed by ADV Guides Editorial.