Acting Executive Director Andrew Mogg said Transport for NSW's boating handbook is the primary source of safe boating information on the waterways and has been updated to make boating rules and regulations clearer for boaters.

"The handbook is not just for skippers. Passengers also have obligations when out on the water," Mr Mogg said.

Printed and online versions will be available.

The online handbook features clickable contents on topics, including:

"We recorded a 9 per cent increase in new boat licences issued in 2020 compared to 2019, as well as a 9 per cent increase in the number of new vessels registered," he said.

"All boaters are reminded to always wear a lifejacket - don't risk your life. In NSW, seven out of ten people who drown while boating are not wearing a lifejacket."

The online boating handbook can be downloaded from

https://www.rms.nsw.gov.au/maritime/safety-rules/resources/handbook.html

Printed copies of the handbook will be available from February 15 from Service NSW outlets as well as from authorised training providers.