The Torquay Boat Ramp at Fisherman’s Beach gives you direct access to the Bass Strait, but it’s definitely not for the inexperienced or those who don't want a challenge. It’s a single-lane concrete ramp, and while it’s in decent shape, it’s better suited for experienced boaters. The ocean conditions can be unpredictable, and depending on the tide and the weather, launching or retrieving your boat can be a real pain at times.

One of the biggest issues here is the sand. The sand builds up around the ramp, which needs regular clearing, but unfortunately, that doesn’t always happen when it should.

In the summer, the soft sand can easily bog down rear-wheel or front-wheel drive vehicles, so unless you’ve got a 4x4 or AWD, you might find yourself stuck. And since the ramp is often not even in the water, especially at low tide, it’s not exactly user-friendly. If the swell’s up, you’ll need at least three people to safely launch or bring the boat back in. It’s doable, but it’s definitely not the most convenient spot around.

When the tide’s high and the wind’s coming from the southeast, things can get hairy pretty quickly. Swells roll in unpredictably and navigating out or back in becomes a tricky task.

The ramp’s location is beautiful, no doubt, but the exposure to wind and ocean swell makes it tough to use. It’s actually known as one of the most difficult ramps in the Geelong area.

Another concern is safety, especially with the number of people that flock to the beach. There’s often a mix of beachgoers and boaters trying to share the same space, and it can get crowded and chaotic fast. Locals have raised concerns about pedestrian safety and have called for better management of the area to avoid potential accidents.

On the upside, there’s plenty of parking available, including spots for cars with trailers. You’ll also find a handy fish cleaning station right next to the ramp, which is great if you’ve had a good day out on the water. There are public toilets nearby and even a few dining options within walking distance, so you won’t go hungry while you're there.

In the end, the Torquay Boat Ramp has its perks, especially for locals who know how to handle its quirks. It’s got a great view and decent facilities, but the combination of sand, swell, and wind means it’s not exactly beginner friendly. If you’re planning to use it, go in prepared, check the conditions, and maybe bring a couple of mates to lend a hand.

Feature	Description
Number of ramp lanes	1
Fish cleaning facilities	Yes
Carpark spaces	Ample parking available including car and trailer
Amenities	Toilets, picnic area
Ramp rating	- Fair