The Boating Now program of works will include the upgrading of, or replacement of, boat ramps or wharves at Lemon Tree Passage, Seaham, Salamander, Karuah, Tomago and Taylors Beach.

Unfortunately, the much maligned, and most popular, Little Beach boat ramp at Nelson Bay, will only receive a coastal process study to guide concept designs.

The improvements, a joint project between Port Stephens Council and Transport for NSW, will be headlined by $1.3 million works at Henderson Park, which will include the construction of a boat ramp, new pontoons and improvements to the tidal pool.

Brendan Callander, the council's community and recreation co-ordinator, said the Seaham boat ramp upgrade and replacement of decking and baffle boards on the Salamander and Karuah wharves were part of the 2015-16 budget.

"Taylors Beach wharf is scheduled to be replaced, and Karuah Boat Ramp upgraded, in 2016-17, while Tomago boat ramp will get its upgrade in 2017-18," he said.

Mr Callander said that construction work would be scheduled to ensure minimal disruption but boaters were asked to be patient.

"Use of the boat ramps during construction will be constrained.

"Any days requiring full closure will be signposted to ensure minimal disruption to users."