Emergency Words

All calls are repeated three times.

MAYDAY

A mayday call denotes an emergency involving imminent danger to a vessel and the people on board. If you hear a mayday call you should not transmit, but continue to monitor the radio. If a shore station such as the local Coastguard or Coastal Patrol fails to respond to the call you should attempt to relay the message and render any assistance. An example of a mayday message could be:

“Mayday, Mayday, Mayday this is Phantom, this is Phantom, this is Phantom, a 5m red half cabin, I am three miles off Red Head, we have been swamped by a wave and we are sinking. There are four people overboard. Over.”

PAN PAN

Pan Pan is an urgency message that indicates a vessel is in trouble but not in immediate danger, for example:

“Pan Pan, Pan Pan, Pan Pan, this is Phantom, this is Phantom, this is Phantom, a 5m red half cabin, I am three miles off Red Head, we have been disabled by a wave and require a tow. There are four people onboard. Over.”

SECURITE

Securite messages generally prefix navigational safety messages such as weather reports or navigation hazard updates, for example:

“Securite Securite Securite all ships, all ships, all ships, this is Coast Radio Sydney, Coast Radio Sydney for a renewal of a strong wind warning please switch to channel VHF 67. Out.”

Search and Rescue

Before a search can be initiated, someone must know that you are either in trouble or overdue. So tell someone where you are going and when you expect to return.

It is strongly recommended that you log in and log out with a volunteer rescue body.

There are a number of ways that a search and rescue agency can be alerted, including radio distress calls, distress flares, overdue reports and activation of an EPIRB.

AusSAR, a division of the Australian Maritime Safety Authority (AMSA), is Australia’s national search and rescue authority and runs the Rescue Co-ordination Centre (RCC Australia) in Canberra. RCC Australia can be contacted 24 hours a day on 1800 641 792.

Fire

Fuel fires aboard small vessels spread rapidly and generate intense heat. Few people are able to successfully combat them. The answer to the problem lies in preventing fires rather than fighting them.

Petrol/Other Fuel

A number of fires or explosions occur immediately after vessels have been refuelled. By using common sense and taking proper precautions, boating fires can be prevented as follows:

LP Gas

Liquified Petroleum Gas (LPG) is noncorrosive and clean-burning. It can cause suffocation if inhaled in sufficient volume.

When buying or selling a boat fittedwith LPG burning appliances you should ensure that the gas cylinders have been inspected and that the equipment and hoses are in safe working order. LPG has the same characteristics as water and will flow downwards and gather in the bilge. Gas storage bottles should be located in a well-ventilated space.

You should:

In the event of a gas leak stop all motors, close all cylinder valves, turn off all appliances and ventilate the vessel. Do not operate any electrical switches until the air is clear.

Leakages can lead to suffocation or explosion. To assist in early detection of leaks a strong odour has been added to LPG, but you should consider installing a gas detector.

Persons Overboard

If someone falls overboard from a small open runabout, make sure that everyone onboard keeps the person in sight while you manoeuvre to pick them up. Once the person is alongside, stop the engine and make sure that the weight in the vessel is redistributed before attempting to bring them inboard. Consider bringing them over the stern if the vessel is unstable.

In bigger craft and when operating offshore throw over a lifejacket or marker immediately. If you lose sight of them this will act as a starting point for a search.

Keep the person in sight at all times; tell passengers to act as lookouts.

Quickly establish your position either by reference to shore marks or by a GPS position. An accurate position will be essential if the search requires outside assistance.

Surviving Hypothermia

Hypothermia is the effect of heat loss from the body.

Hypothermia occurs when a person’s body temperature is lowered to less than 35°C and affects your brain, heart and other internal organs. While your body begins to cool as soon as you enter the water the full effect of hypothermia can take around 30 minutes. Some of the effects of hypothermia are a reduction of blood flow to the hands, feet and surface of the body, intense shivering in the early stages as the body tries to maintain its core temperature and no shivering the later stages.

To reduce the risk of hypothermia wear warm, preferably woollen, clothing under wet weather gear.

Various techniques have been developed to prolong survival time, including:

The key to avoiding cold water immersion and hypothermia is to stay out of the water. Keep the vessel’s deck and other areas free of slipping and tripping hazards. If you do fall in remember, don’t inhale water, don’t panic, keep as much of your body out of the water and wear a lifejacket – it can be the difference between in a survival situation.

Treating Hypothermia

Hypothermia can be mistaken for drowsiness. There are, however, some signs and symptoms which will allow you to make an immediate evaluation:

To treat hypothermia you must act quickly but gently. Never give the patient an unwrapped hot-water bottle or give them alcohol. The best method of treatment is to allow the patient to warm naturally where possible and you should:

Click here for the safety awareness message on hypothermia.

Carbon Monoxide Poisoning

Carbon monoxide is a colourless and odourless gas produced when carbon based fuel, such as gasoline, diesel, propane, charcoal, or oil burns. High concentrations of carbon monoxide can be fatal within minutes.

Symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning include irritated eyes, headaches, nausea and dizziness. As these symptoms are similar to seasickness and intoxication those affected may not receive the medical attention they need.

Boaters need to be aware of the sources inside and outside the vessel that produce carbon monoxide such as engines, generators and fuel burning cooking equipment.

Owners of vessels fitted with a rear vented exhaust system should remind passengers and swimmers that the rear deck and swim platform areas should be avoided when engines are running due to the levels of carbon monoxide.

One dangerous practice involves people, usually children, hanging on to the stern of a boat and being dragged through the water.

It is called “teak surfing” because many craft have a teak swim platform at the back. It is dangerous because it can put the person being towed close, to and directly in the path, of the engine exhaust. To further compound the danger, people doing this often do not wear a lifejacket.

NSW Maritime strongly recommends that people do not engage in “teak surfing”.

Following is a list of things to do if you suspect a person has been affected by carbon monoxide. Remember to proceed with caution. The victim may be in an area that has high exposure to carbon monoxide, placing you and others in danger.

Click here for the safety awareness message on carbon monoxide poisoning.

Reporting Vessel Incidents

Requirement

If a boating accident occurs in any port or navigable water in NSW, the master of the vessel must:

Vessel Incident Report Forms

Vessel incident report forms are available from any NSW Maritime operations centre, the Police, the Royal Volunteer Coastal Patrol and Australian Volunteer Coast Guard.

Note: A penalty exists for not reporting an accident to NSW Maritime.

Ambulance Service

When emergency situations occur on our waterways there is often confusion about which authority should be called, resulting in life threatening delays of medical responses.

If an accident occurs, use your radio to contact your volunteer coastal shore base stating your exact location and the nature of the emergency. The Ambulance Service of NSW is able to co-ordinate the response of land based ambulances, helicopters with paramedics and doctors on board.

All of these responses are equipped to deal with a marine emergency from scuba divers with the bends to heart attack victims.

PWC

Let’s all exercise POWER WITH RESPONSIBILITY and help preserve the great sporting opportunities and enjoyment of personal watercraft.
Recognise too, that your Yamaha WaveRunner is actually a boat. Please learn and follow all the rules of the sea and waterways, take professional instruction where possible, and obey local rules and regulations, which may differ greatly from area to area.

Images on these web pages may show vehicles being driven by professionals, and no recommendation or guidance in respect of safe operation or style of use is intended or implied by the publication of these images. Read all instruction materials carefully before setting out and always wear recommended protective clothing, life preserver or lifejacket when boating. NEVER DRINK AND RIDE.

Adhere to License and Registration Requirements
In all states PWC must be registered, and in most states, licensing of drivers is compulsory.

Wear Appropriate Safety Equipment
Safety equipment such as Personal Flotation Device (PFD) vests are critical in safe PWC operation. PFD1 and PFD2 vests which are compulsory in open waters feature excellent buoyancy and high-visibility, in case you should get separated from your PWC. Always wear your ignition cut-out safety line.

Distances and Speed
Be aware of your speed in relation to other craft, other water users and the shore. Stringent rules exist governing the proximity of PWC to swimming areas, surf zones and other objects. Remember, PWC do not have brakes, so it’s important to be aware of how long it takes to stop your craft.

Obey Rules of the ‘Road’
Understand and adhere to the rules which govern head-on approach, overtaking and right-of-way. Keep a sharp look out and take any safe action needed to avoid a collision.

Know the area
Do not assume the water is naturally clear of obstructions. Rocks, sand bars and other submerged objects can cause seriously material or personal damage.
Check marine charts and stay in marked channels.

Ride smart and sober
Be aware of others in your area at all times: Other craft and water users may enter your area of operation at any time - Swimmers may be hidden from view by waves and swell. And remember, alcohol and PWC do not mix under any circumstances.

Watch the weather
Check the weather forecast before starting out, and particularly if you are a significant distance from your launching point be alert for the wave, wind and cloud changes that signal the approach of bad weather.

Behave sensibly and Respect the rights of others
Put yourself in the position of other users and make sure your enjoyment is not detracting from that of someone else. Noise is one of the most common causes for complaint from people who share leisure areas, and therefore it is important not to congregate near residential areas, or others trying to enjoy the outdoors. Still morning air or onshore breezes can increase the effect of your engine noise, so be aware of the comfort of others.

Education
PWC clubs are usually happy to introduce new members to the sport and to assist with instruction and participation in recreational events. Operators are encouraged to join the PWC community.

Language of Boating

 

Terminology	Definition
Abeam	abreast of, or at right angles to, the fore and aft line of the vessel.
Aft	towards the “stern”, or rear of the vessel.
Bar	a shallow area formed by sand, mud, gravel, or shingle, near the mouth of a river or at the approach to a harbour which is often dangerous.
Bombora	a shallow area where waves may break.
Bow	the front of the vessel.
Chart datum	the level below which soundings are given on some charts and maps above which are given the drying heights of features. Datum is also the level above which tidal levels and predictions are given in Tide Tables.
Conditions of heightened risk	in relation to a vessel, means conditions when tides, river flows, visibility, rough seas, adverse weather or an emergency cause a risk to the safety of persons onboard the vessel.
Draft	the minimum depth of water a vessel needs to float in.
Ebb tide	the falling or run-out tide.
Enclosed waters	means any port or inland navigable waters in New South Wales.
Fairway	any navigable channel.
Flood tide	the rising or run-in tide.
Give way	reduce speed, stop, go astern or alter course so as to keep out of another vessel’s path.
Go astern	reverse engines or travel backwards.
Gunwales	pronounced “gunnels”, the top edge of the vessel’s sides.
Heave to	steering into the wind and sea making minimum headway.
Knots (speed)	one knot is a speed of one nautical mile per hour, or 1.852 km/hr.
Leads (transits)	marks used in channels and at bar entrances which when in line indicate the centre of the navigable channel.
Lee shore	the shore onto which the wind blows.
Leeward	downwind side.
Open waters	means navigable waters which are not enclosed waters.
Open vessel	means a vessel that has no part of, or not more than one-quater of, the area between its gunwales permanently covered so as to hinder water from entering the vessel.
MHWS	Mean High Water Springs is an average value of high tides used on some signs. Makes no allowance for unusual tide conditions.
Port	includes: (a) any harbour or haven, whether natural or artificial, or any estuary, channel, river, creek or roadstead, and (b) any navigable water in which vessels may lie for shelter or for the shipment or unshipment of goods or passengers.
Port side	the left hand side of a vessel when you are looking forward from the stern and the side on which a red sidelight is displayed.
PWC	a personal watercraft is a vessel designed to be operated by a person standing, sitting astride or kneeling on. It uses waterjet propulsion and has an engine in a watertight compartment.
Sailing Vessel	a sailing vessel is only classed as a sailing vessel when it is propelled only by sails; a vessel under sails but being propelled by engines is classed as a power driven vessel.
Sidelight	lights to be shown at night when underway, showing an unbroken light over an arc of 112.5 degrees from right ahead to 22.5 degrees abaft the beam.
Spring tide	a tide or relatively large range occurring near the times of New or Full Moon.
Stand on	to continue on the same course and speed.
Starboard side	the right hand side of the vessel when you are looking forward from the stern, and the side on which a green sidelight is displayed.
Stern	the back or rear of the vessel.
Underway	not at anchor or made fast to the shore or ground. If you are drifting you are underway.
Windward	the direction from which the wind blows (upwind).

Boat Handling

• always get a wind/weather report before boating
• keep a constant lookout for signs of:
  • changing weather
  • white caps/disturbance on the water
  • cloud development.

Water Traffic Rules

Speed

All vessels must travel at a safe speed at all times.

A safe speed cannot be expressed as a maximum or minimum number of knots because it varies with circumstances and conditions. The master (driver) must continually assess the safety of the vessel’s speed.

 

A safe speed is one at which the vessel can be stopped in time to avoid any danger which arises suddenly. In judging a safe speed the master must consider a number of issues including:

 

Visibility – drive slowly in rain, fog, mist, smoke or glare. At night, special caution is required because many potential hazards may not be lit or may not be easily seen. Background shore lighting may confuse you.

 

Other vessels – slow down on busy waterways and when near moored or anchored vessels, working vessels showing special signals and large vessels which have difficulties in manoeuvring.

 

Navigation hazards – slow down in shallow areas, or in unfamiliar waterways. Water depth can vary and change frequently. Not all hazards may be marked or lit, and signs, buoys, marks or lights may have shifted or been vandalised.

 

Wind, waves and currents – may adversely affect the manoeuvrability of a vessel.

 

Manoeuvrability of the vessel – Stopping and turning ability depends on the speed travelled, wind and current and the boat’s design (such as hull shape, engine and propeller type and number.)

If your vessel does not have a speedometer, you must be able to determine if you are exceeding a local speed limit. For example, if your boat is planing in a restricted speed zone it is likely that you are exceeding the speed limit, so slow down.

Avoiding Collisions

All masters (drivers) must be aware of the International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea. A summary of these rules is given in this section.

Lookout

A good lookout must be kept by sight and hearing. The master must be fully aware of the boating environment, especially in bad weather, restricted visibility or darkness. Don’t forget to look all around – even behind you.

 

Don’t confuse the lookout duties of the master with those of the observer when the boat is towing a person on skis, tubes, etc.

 

The master is responsible at all times for keeping a lookout for dangers.

 

Giving Way

 

The master must continuously assess the risk of collision with other vessels and power vessels must give way to:

A vessel drifting is deemed to be underway and has no special right of way. It is required to comply with the International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea.

 

Note: In a collision, all masters involved can be held responsible even if the give-way vessel does not give way, because all masters are required to exercise caution and take avoiding action if the other vessel does not.

 

Always keep a safe distance off other vessels so the vessel can be stopped or manoeuvred to avoid any sudden danger. The faster the speed, the greater the safe distance must be. When altering course make your intentions clear to others as early as possible.

 

Sound Signals

 

Special sound signals exist for vessels to indicate their manoeuvring intentions when they are in sight of one another.
1 short blast … I am altering course to starboard (the right).
2 short blasts … I am altering course to port (the left).
3 short blasts … I am operating engines astern (stopping/slowing).
5 short blasts … I am unsure of your intentions and I doubt whether you are taking sufficient action to avoid collision.

 

Power Gives Way to Sail

 

A power driven vessel must give way to a sailing vessel unless the sailing vessel is in the process of overtaking it.

 

 

Power Driven Vessels Meeting Head on

 

When two power driven vessels are meeting head on, each must alter course to starboard (to the right) and pass at a safe distance.

 

 

Power Driven Vessels Crossing
 

 

In crossing situations, give way to the right.
 

 

Action to Avoid Collision
 

The give-way vessel must avoid a collision by changing course substantially, by slowing down, or stopping and allowing he vessel which has right of way to pass clear ahead. This must be done as early as possible.
Note: The master of the vessel which has right of way must maintain a lookout, maintain course and speed, and be prepared to take action to avoid a collision if necessary.

 

Vessels Overtaking

 

Any vessel (including a sailing boat) which is overtaking another vessel must keep well clear of the vessel being overtaken. You can overtake another vessel on either side but only when it is safe, and you must stay well clear. In narrow channels you must be particularly careful when overtaking. In all instances, make sure you do not cut in front of the vessel you have overtaken.

 

 

Distance Off (Vessels Other Than PWC)

 

When travelling at a speed of 10 knots or more you must keep well away from people and objects in the water. There are minimum distances you must keep from obstacles. If you cannot keep these distances you must slow down to under 10 knots. The closer you get, the slower you must go.

 

 

You must keep:

There are also special requirements if you are using aerial equipment, such as when para-gliding and kitesurfing. Before using this type of equipment you should contact your local NSW Maritime office for advice.

 

Sailing Vessels and Sailboards

 

When two sailing vessels have wind on different sides, the vessel with wind on the port side gives way.

 

 

When both craft have wind on the same side, the vessel which is to windward shall keep out of the way of the vessel which is to leeward.

 

 

Note: If a collision appears inevitable, the skipper of each vessel must take proper action to avert the collision.

 

Mooring Areas

 

On many waterways in NSW, areas are set aside for the mooring of vessels. These vessels are not required to be lit at night and the masters of other vessels must be aware of the location of such moorings.

 

Contact your local NSW Maritime operations centre for details of mooring areas.

When navigating near, in or through a mooring area:

Dredges

 

Slow down to under 4 knots when passing within 100m of a dredge and keep well clear.

 

 

Diving Activities

 

The diver’s flag must be shown when people are engaged in diving activities from a vessel. It is recommended that this flag be shown when diving/snorkelling from shore. As divers may not always be in close proximity, it is important that as soon as you see a dive flag you slow down, keep well clear and keep a good lookout. If you are within speaking distance of the dive master get their instructions as to a safe direction to travel to avoid any possible encounters. If there is no dive master about then it’s your responsibility to keep a good lookout, at all times, for any divers above and below the surface and then determine a safe distance.

 

If you see a snorkeller in the water, remember to remain a distance of at least 30 metres from them in the water (60 metres if you are towing a water skier or aquaplaner).
 

When you see this signal slow down, keep well clear and keep a lookout.

 

Vehicular Ferries

 

In some areas vehicular ferries drag themselves across channels using wires or chains. Because these wires/chains are often below the water you may not see the danger. You must slow down to 4 knots or less when within 100 metres of a ferry and sound a long blast before passing astern. Preferably wait until it has reached the shore to avoid becoming entangled in the wires.

 

 

Commercial Fishing Vessels

 

Licensed fishing vessels (LFB) display special shapes and lights when their manoeuvrability is restricted by their fishing apparatus. You should keep clear of these vessels when you see such shapes or lights or notice they are working with nets and lines. (Contact your local Fisheries office for more details about the rights of commercial fishing vessels).

 

 

 

Priority Over Sail

 

Some commercial ferries on Sydney Harbour display an orange diamond shape which grants priority of way over sailing vessels. Do not attempt to cross the path of an approaching ferry displaying this signal.

 

 

Jetcats or Rivercats (on Sydney Harbour)

 

These craft carry the normal lights for a power driven vessel underway and, in addition, they exhibit an all-round flashing yellow light when they are travelling at a planing speed.

 

 

Channel Blocked/Closed

 

These signals mean vessels should NOT attempt to navigate in that part of the channel.

 

Big Ships and Small Boats

 

The main safety tips for small boats around shipping and ferry channels are:

Even when hundreds of metres away, your boat may disappear from the ship master’s view from the bridge

Sydney Harbour Control VHF 16/13 (24 hrs). Nav warnings / Met broadcast VHF Ch13 (3 min. past hour). Unless otherwise directed, sailing vessels and motor vessels are not to impede the passage of commercial shipping/naval vessels inside the shipping channels. Navigation (collision) Regulation 1983 apply.

Navigation at Night

The waterways are not like well-defined roads. It is unsafe to navigate a vessel with lights illuminating the water directly ahead because it will deprive you and other vessel operators of night vision. Spotlights can be used to identify specific hazards, but this should only be done when operating at very slow speed and without affecting other waterway users.

 

The most important rules to remember when driving a boat at night are to slow down and keep a good lookout. The speed of travel should be much less than that travelled by day.

 

Remember the following:

Vessel Lights

Navigation lights or an equivalent are required to be shown or be available to be shown by all vessels between sunset and sunrise. Vessels which have navigation lights must also show them between sunrise and sunset when visibility is restricted.

 

The lights of a small power vessel should look like this:

  

Power Driven Vessels

Power driven vessels underway must, as a minumum, exhibit the following lights:

Vessels less than 7m in length & with a maximum speed of 7 knots or less

(a) masthead light forward
(b) sidelights and
(c) sternlight.
or
(a) all-round white light; and
(b) sidelights (only if practicable).

 

Vessels less than 12m in length

(a) masthead light forward
(b) sidelights and
(c) sternlight.
or
(a) all-round white light and
(b) sidelights.

 

Vessels 12m or more in length but less than 50m

(a) masthead light forward
(b) sidelights and
(c) sternlight

 

Vessels 50m or more in length

(a) masthead light forward
(b) second masthead light abaft of and higher than the forward one
(c) sidelights and
(d) sternlight.

 

Anchored Vessels

Vessels less than 7m in length

 

(a) no lights - if not anchored in a narrow channel, fairway or anchorage or where other vessels normally navigate.

 

Vessels less than 50m in length

(a) all-round white light

 

Vessels 50m or more in length

(a) in fore part - all-round white light or one ball and
(b) at or near stern and at lower level than light in (a) – all-round white light.

Drifting Vessels

Vessels which are drifting are still ‘underway’ and must show the same navigation lights as if they were still making way. For example, if a power vessel is drifting it must show its white light and side lights.

Sailing & Rowing Vessels

Sailing vessels less than 7m long and rowing vessels must as a minimum have a torch or lantern showing a white light, ready to display in time to prevent collision. It is however, strongly recommended that rowing sculls show an all-round white light between sunset and sunrise.

Sailing Vessels (7m or more)

When underway a sailing vessel of 7m or more must show:

The lights of a sailing vessel should look like this.

Note: this is different from a power vessel.

Sailing Vessels Propelled by Engines

If a sailing vessel is using an engine to propel it even with sails up, the regulations consider it to be a power driven vessel. In this case, a sailing vessel MUST display the same lights as a power driven vessel.

Personal watercraft

Personal watercraft (PWC) is the term used to describe trade names such as Jet Skis, Waverunners and Sea Doos. Regardless of the type of PWC it is important to remember PWC are just another form of powerboat, and are generally subject to similar regulations and laws. However, there are also some special rules that apply to the use of these craft. PWC are much more manoeuvrable than traditional power boats, have different handling characteristics and when used carelessly they can present a danger and nuisance to both the operator and to other people using our waterways.

PWC Drivers Licence

To obtain a PWC Licence, or to upgrade an existing General Licence, you must make an appointment to attend a NSW Maritime office, or attend a Boating Safety Course and successfully answer additional licence test questions (fee applies).

Note: Heavy penalties apply to PWC owners if their craft is ridden by an unlicensed person.

Registration

All PWC MUST be registered if used on NSW waterways.

Registration numbers, not less than 100mm high, must be displayed on both sides of the craft (not on the central control arm).

 

Registration numbers must stand out against any decals and striping on the PWC and be clearly visible when the vessel is being operated.

 

The registration label must be attached on the port side where it is visible.

Ride Smart Behaviour Stickers

PWC operators are required to display a “behaviour sticker” on their craft. This sticker summarises the key safety issues required to be followed while on the water.

The sticker must be affixed to the PWC near the controls where it can be easily seen.

PWC Operating Restrictions

PWC may be prohibited or have restrictions placed on their speed and/or driving pattern as follows:

(1) PWC Exclusion Zones

The operation of PWC is prohibited in certain areas such as:

• Sydney Harbour, including the waters of all tidal bays, river and their tributaries (includes Parramatta River, Middle Harbour and Lane Cove River)
• Darook Park at Port Hacking
• La Perouse at Botany Bay.

(2) PWC Restriction Zones

This zone encompasses the bays, rivers and other waterways within the Sydney basin area which lies between Port Hacking, Wamberal and the Blue Mountains but does not include water off the coast.

 

PWC are not permitted to be used for ‘irregular driving’ within 200m of the shoreline of the above. Examples of ‘irregular driving’ are:

• driving in a circle or other pattern
• weaving or diverting
• surfing down or jumping over or across any swell, wave or wash.

This means that PWC are required to be operated generally in a straight line within 200m of the shoreline.

(3) All Other Navigable Waters

In all navigable waters, other than (1) and (2), and including all of the NSW coast, ‘irregular driving’ is not permitted within 200m of the shoreline where one or more dwellings are visible within 200m of that shore.

 

Note: Irregular driving does not apply when a PWC is towing a water skier or aquaplaner. However, as soon as towing activity is finished the no irregular driving rule comes into effect.

After Sunset

Riding a PWC between sunset and sunrise is prohibited regardless of whether navigation lights are fitted.

Keep Your Distance

When driving a PWC at 10 knots or more, you must keep 60 metres away from:

• a person in the water; and
• small, non-powered vessels such as surf skis, canoes, vessels 4 metres or less in length without mechanical propulsion.A PWC being operated at 10 knots or more must be kept 30 metres from:

• any power driven vessel (including other PWC);
• any river bank or shore and structures such as jetties or moorings; and
• non-powered vessels over 4 metres in length.
• Riders and passengers should also beware the ‘jet stream’ from the engine. At close range this jet stream can be harmful to a person.

Distances to be kept when Towing

When towing a water skier or aquaplaner the same rules apply as to other vessels.

 

Tow-in Surfing

Tow-in surfing is a technique where a surfer is towed onto a breaking wave by a person riding a PWC. The following conditions apply to tow-in surfing.

Only PWC may be used for tow-in surfing. No observer is required on the PWC provided there is a compliance with all these conditions at all times.

Heavy penalties apply for non compliance.

 

NOTE: PWC may not be ridden on Sydney Harbour even though signs may not be in evidence. Penalties exist for breaches of PWC exclusion zones.

 

What is a Designated Surf Zone/Swimming Area?

 

A designated surf zone is defined as the area extending 500 metres out from shore between surf patrol flags or signs. A swimming area is defined as the area extending 60 metres out from shore between signs for swimmers.

 

A PWC must not be operated in these zones or within 60 metres either side of the flags or signs marking such zones. The only time you can enter a surf or swimming zone whilst operating a PWC is when you use your PWC to rescue a person from danger.

 

Local councils can erect signs, designating PWC free zones. These new exclusion zones would be posted on the NSW maritime website when operational.

 

 

Safety Equipment

 

The driver and passengers must wear a suitable lifejacket.

On enclosed waters an approved lifejacket of type 1, 2 or 3 is required. On offshore waters an approved lifejacket type 1 or 2 is compulsory.

 

Noise Annoys

 

One of the most common complaints received about PWC is noise.

Many PWC operators tend to congregate near residential or popular recreational areas and drive around repeatedly in the same area. This can aggravate other people and disturb wildlife and result in on-the-spot fines, or heavier penalties. Be considerate, particularly:

Continuous driving of a PWC close to residential, picnic or recreation areas should be avoided.

Towing People

The Ski/Towing Boat

• Must have current registration
• must have a minimum crew of two
• the master (driver) and an observer (also applies to PWC when towing)
• must have a capacity sticker
• must carry appropriate safety equipment
• cannot be remotely controlled.

The Driver

• must hold a General Licence if the vessel will be operated at 10 knots or more, or PWC Licence when operating a PWC at any speed
• is responsible for the safety of the boat and towed people and for maintaining the minimum distances off applicable to the boat and the skier(s).

The Observer

• must be 16 years of age or older, or the holder of a Young Adult Licence
• must not suffer hearing, sight, or other disabilities which could affect the performance of observation duties
• has the prime responsibility of observing the towed people and reporting all matters affecting them to the master
• tells the driver about other vessels approaching from behind
• should be familiar with the standard hand signals.

 

The Towed Person

• No more than 3 skiers can be towed at once
• Must maintain the minimum distances off, and when returning to shore must do so safely

Distances Off

When towing keep both the vessel and the towed person at least:

• 30 metres from vessels not towing skiers, the shore, jetties, moorings, pump inlets, bridges
• 60 metres from persons in the water (fallen skiers and aquaplaners, swimmers)

If towing aerial equipment (e.g. paraflying) keep both the vessel, towed person and equipment at least:

• 300 metres from any bridge, cable, wire, pipeline or structure

Note: This regulation also applies to two or more vessels towing people travelling one behind the other.

No Towing Areas

In some areas skiing and wakeboarding etc may be prohibited and signs may be displayed. In other areas skiing may not be possible because of the location of hazards or a safe distances off cannot be maintained.

Towing Prohibited

Towing is prohibited between sunset and sunrise.

Kite Surfing

• Kite surfers and their equipment, including kite and lines, must maintain a minimum distance of 30m from any persons or objects in the water at all times
• Stay out of a designated surf zone. A designated surf zone is defined as the area extending 500 metres out from shore between surf patrol flags or signs
• Stay out of a swimming area, which is defined as the area extending 60 metres out from shore between signs for swimmers.

Navigation Markers

A system of buoys, poles and lights is used to assist safe navigation. Each type of mark has a unique combination of colour, shape, topmark and light. You must be able to identify these marks and pass them safely on the correct side.

Lateral Marks

Port and starboard marks are referred to as lateral marks.

Port Hand Markers

Are red and have a can shaped topmark or buoy. If lit, a port hand mark shows a flashing red light.

May be any of the shapes shown above.

Starboard Hand Markers

Are green and have a cone shaped buoy or topmark. If lit, a starboard hand mark shows a flashing green light.

May be any of the shapes shown above.

When both port and starboard mark are placed near each other, you travel between the two.

Single Lateral Marks

Often lateral marks are not placed in pairs, so you will need to decide on the safe side to pass.

 

The safe side to pass a lateral navigation marker is determined by your direction of travel to or from the sea.

Note:
Heading upstream means in a direction away from the sea
Heading downstream means in a direction towards the sea.

Channels & Rivers

Extreme caution should be exercised when driving a boat because not all shallow areas and navigation hazards may be marked. This is important on rivers and estuaries where shallow areas may shift. Be careful at bends. Keep a good lookout for boats coming the opposite way. Do not cut corners.

In channels or narrow stretches of water the following rules apply:

Leads

Leads are often used to guide vessels into a port or through sections of a waterway. By moving your vessel to a position so that both leads are lined up, the course should be a safe one.

 

At night, major leads are lit. Move your vessel to ensure that the lights are vertically above each other. All leads are shown on maps and charts, so it is essential to consult your chart for relevant leads and other navigation aids before entering unfamiliar waters.

 

The leads at major ports are usually highly visible blue triangular lights mounted on bright orange or red triangular boards.

 

Cardinal Marks

Cardinal marks are used to indicate that deeper water lies in a compass direction away from a danger such as a reef, shallow areas etc. They are painted in combinations of yellow and black as shown.

Speed Signs

In some areas, speed restriction signs are used for safety reasons. Two types of speed signs are used in NSW.

No Wash Signs

“Wash” is the wave effect created by a vessel moving through the water. No Wash signs are placed in some areas where the wash from a vessel is likely to cause damage to the foreshore or vessels, or injury or annoyance to people. Travel at a speed which creates minimal wash when you see this sign and when near moored or anchored vessels. Look behind you to check that you are not creating wash and note the effect of your wash on other boats and the shore. Adjust your speed if necessary.Regardless of signs, you should not navigate your vessel in such a way as to produce excessive wash that endangers other vessels or causesnuisance, as this is an offence.

Note: Travelling at the speed shown on a speed restriction sign does not guarantee you are not creating wash.

Other Buoys and Signs

Isolated Danger

Indicates specific dangers with generally safe waters all around (eg a wreck). You can pass them on any side but do not pass too close. If lit, it shows a white light flashing in groups of two.

Special Marks

Indicates special features or areas such as:

They can be utilised as lateral marks by using can or conical shaped buoys. If so they must be passed as lateral marks:can (eg Port Hand going upstream) conical (Starboard Hand). These marks, if lit, show a yellow light at night which may flash in any rhythm.

Safe Water Marks

These are not common in NSW, however they may be used to mark the division of large shipping channels. They show a white light at night and can be passed on any side.

Aquamark Minibuoys

Used in some areas as alternatives to conventional buoyage. They often have advisory messages on them.

Submarine Cables

Anchoring is prohibited within 200 metres of submarine cables. If an anchor becomes snagged near one of these signs, it should not be retrieved – cut the anchor line.

Overhead Power Lines

As clearance heights can vary according to water levels, it is most important that masters know the height of their masts and understand the height level given on any sign.

The clearance of the power lines is usually given as the clearance above MHWS (Mean High Water Springs or the average of very high tides). It is important to know that this clearance height may reduce during king tides or floods.

 

Extra caution is required when launching/retrieving vessels with a mast on shore. Always keep a lookout for overhead power lines.

Choosing the Right Type of Boat

Boats are designed and built for different purposes. There are different hull shapes to suit different water conditions and loads. Before you use or obtain a boat, do some research and talk to other boat operators, manufacturers and retailers and consider the following questions:

What Will the Boat be Used For?

Fishing? Cruising? Water-skiing? Sailing? The design, construction, stability, flotation and maintenance will all be factors in the safety and performance of your vessel.

Where do you Plan to go Boating?

Boats designed for use on inland or sheltered waters are not usually suited for use in open waters or along the coast where waves are larger.

What Size Boat do you Need?

The right size boat will depend on the number of people you intend to carry, the amount of equipment, provisions and goods you intend to load into it, as well as the type of water conditions you expect to experience.

What Engine Power does the Boat Need?

Boats have both minimum power needs and maximum power limitations. Don’t overpower a boat to gain more speed – a bigger engine may be unsafe by unbalancing the boat and lowering the freeboard.

Is the Boat Fitted with Built-in Buoyancy?

Boats fitted with internal buoyancy such as foam, will remain afloat when capsized or swamped. This improves the chances of rescue and survival in the event of disaster, particularly in isolated areas or offshore.

Buying a Second Hand Boat

Buying a second-hand boat can be a good way of getting into boating. While the price of a second-hand boat should reflect its conditions and specifications, extra care is required. Unless you are experienced or specially trained it may be a good idea to get a person with appropriate marine knowledge to conduct an assessment before you make any decision to buy a second-hand vessel.

Maintain Your Vessel

It is important to ensure your vessel is in good order by inspecting the key features of the vessel each time before you leave home or the ramp, mooring or wharf. The major causes of breakdown at sea are engine failure, fuel shortage or contamination, mechanical failure and battery failure.

The Vessel Checklist

On entering the vessel and before operating any switches or engines, check for petrol and/or LPG odours; fix any faults before you go out.
Ensure the vessel is well ventilated to prevent carbon monoxide build up from exhaust systems.
Inspect the bilges. If there is more bilge water than usual, find and rectify the fault. Note: when pumping bilges be aware of the environment. Polluting the waterways is an offence.
Check fuel, engine oil and coolant levels. Top up if required. Examine batteries, terminals etc. Do the same for the second engine if carried.
Check the fire extinguisher is in good condition.
Ensure there is sufficient fresh water and food for the length of the voyage with some extra in case of emergency.
Make sure your lights are in working order; it may be a daylight outing, but you could be delayed in returning.
Fuel should be fresh (not last year’s) and you should have enough fuel for the full trip plus reserve.
Self-draining holes should be clear.
Ropes and lines should be in good condition and stored ready for use.
Steering cables and connections must be in good working order.
Inspect the battery.
Check that appropriate anchors are on board and are properly rigged, stowed and ready for use.
Have one appropriate lifejacket for each person on board and accessible.
Children should have suitably-sized lifejackets and look at means of rigging lifelines in open areas so that children have enough handholds.
If you have a radio, make sure it is on and working. The best way to do this is to report the details for your vessel and voyage to a coast radio station or local base station.
Have up-to-date charts showing ports along your route.
Ensure you have a complete first aid kit.
Essential tools and spare parts should be in good condition.
Keep a sharp knife in a handy place; you may need it to cut ropes etc.
Have a rescue quoit or lifebuoy ready for use.
Have a whistle, mirror, marker dye, flares for emergency signalling.
Do not overload your vessel.
Don’t forget the bung!

Recommended Spare Parts

(minimum suggested items)
O = outboard powered vessels
I = inboard powered vessels
Y = yacht

Recommended Tool Kit

(minimum suggested items)

Motor Maintenance

Regular maintenance will ensure some of the following parts won’t let you down.

Water pump: replace regularly especially if you have been operating in the shallows and stirring sand or mud. Water pump impellors also deteriorate if not used for lengthy periods.
Fuel filters and lines: filters become clogged and lines can harden with age and exposure.
Propellers: the bushing of the propeller can fail especially if it has hit sand or rocks. Always carry a spare shear pin.
Spark plugs: plugs can break down unexpectedly. Carry spares.
Gear box oil: snagged fishing line on the drive shaft is a common cause of leaking gear box seals. Water in the gear box will eventually cause it to fail. Regular oil changes will prevent this.
Some of the causes for engine failure are minor, so you should be able to troubleshoot a problem. Take time to learn how to: change the filter and primer bowl; clean and change spark plugs; check for spark; check and replace fuses; change the propeller; clean battery terminals. Don’t be a backyard mechanic – have all major servicing done by a qualified mechanic.

Safety Equipment

Lifejackets

Approved lifejackets, must be carried on board every vessel unless exempt. Lifejackets are the most important piece of safety equipment on any vessel and must be in a good condition and accessible. Penalties will be imposed on the owners and masters of vessels found not carrying them or occupants not wearing them as required. Lifejackets are compulsory to wear when crossing coastal bars. It is strongly recommended that lifejackets are worn at times of heightened risk. It is also recommended that each child aged 12 or under, elderly persons or people with medical conditions wear a lifejacket at all times when in open areas of a vessel where it is possible to fall directly overboard (eg: foredeck and cockpit). There are three types of lifejackets approved for recreational boating:

• A type 1 jacket:

This type offers protection from drowning by maintaining a person in a safe floating position in the water, with buoyancy behind the head. They are compulsory for all people on board vessels in the open sea. (However PWC riders may use a type 2).
There are two types of type 1 – those with fixed buoyancy and those which are inflatable, water or manually activated. An approved type 1 must have an Australian Standards AS 1512 mark. In remote inland waters where search and rescue times may be longer or when water conditions can turn rough it is recommended that a type 1 lifejacket be worn.
• Type 2 or 3 jackets:

These types are also known as buoyancy vests and are suitable for aquatic sports where boating activities are usually observable by others and rescue times are likely to be short. They are not designed to maintain a person in a safe floating position.
Type 3s are NOT recommended for general boating use because the variety of colours that may be used for these jackets may make them less visible in search and rescue operations. An approved type 2 is marked with Australian Standard AS 1499 while a type 3 is marked as AS 2260.

Click here for the safety awareness message on lifejackets.

Other Essential Equipment

Anchors

Choose the right size and type of anchor for your vessel and the nature of the sea bed. For example, an anchor designed for rocky bottoms will not hold on sand or mud. Always anchor by the bow not the stern, and never anchor in a channel or where submarine cables are signposted.

Bilge Pump

The bilge pump should be protected by a strainer to prevent choking of the pump suction.

Bucket

Depending on the size of the vessel, at least one solidly constructed metal or plastic bucket with 2m rope attached must be carried.

As a safety item it is useful for both bailing water out and fighting fires. The bucket can be used as a sea anchor.

Compass and Chart

Any boat operating offshore is required to have a marine compass. Even if your boat is fitted with satellite navigation equipment, a compass will indicate the course back to shore if rain, fog or sea haze obliterates the land from view.

An appropriate chart or map that identifies prominent shore marks and offshore reefs and shoals is also required on all vessels offshore. Charts and maps help to determine your position, which can be of particular importance in an emergency.

EPIRB

An EPIRB or Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacon is a simple and effective alerting and locating device that is complusory for all vessels 8m or more in length operating more than 2 nautical miles from the shore. However, it is recommended that all vessels venturing offshore carry an EPIRB.

Once activated, an EPIRB transmits a distress signal for at least 48 hours that can detected by satellites and overflying aircraft. EPIRB alerts detected off NSW are passed to RCC Australia who then coordinates a search. A distress beacon’s location can generally be calculated by the satellite system to within a range of 5 kilometres for a 406 MHz and 20 kilometres for a 121.5 MHz beacon.
The EPIRB should be accessible but stowed to avoid inadvertent activation. Do not stow it in the bottom of a locker.
Note: The 121.5 MHz signal will not be received after February 2009 and will be replaced by 406 MHz beacons.

Flares

Flares signal that you are in trouble and provide an exact location for searching aircraft or vessels. Only ignite them when rescuers are in view and can spot your flare.

A minimum of two red hand flares (for night or day use) and two orange smoke flares (for day use) are required to be carried on all vessels operating offshore. It is also recommended that vessels operating offshore or in remote areas carry parachute flares.
You should be able to locate and ignite the correct flare in total darkness.
Most flares have a use-by date of three years and they should be replaced before the expiry date. If your old flares appear to be in good condition keep them onboard as a backup. Once they start to look damaged, enquire with the manufacturer about the best means of disposal. Don’t put them in the garbage or take them to the tip.

Note: It is an offence to fire flares except in an emergency.

Fresh Drinking Water

Two litres of fresh drinking water per person must be carried on all vessels operating offshore.

Lifeboat or Liferaft

An inflatable or rigid lifeboat or liferaft is a safety device for larger vessels proceeding to sea and is mandatory for vessels of 12 metres and over, but is recommended for any vessel making coastal voyages.

Lifebuoy

A lifebuoy or rescue quoit is mandatory for all vessels 8 metres or over on enclosed or open waters.

Marine Radios

Marine radios are compulsory for all vessels operating more than 2 nautical miles out to sea, and are recommended for anyone proceeding offshore. They provide a means of advising shore stations of your itinerary, checking boating weather and navigational warnings and making distress calls.

Marine radios using 27 MHz are relatively cheap and available for general use.

A mobile phone does not replace the requirement to carry a marine radio.

Oars and/or Paddle

Oars and/or paddle must be carried on most vessels under 8 metres in length unless a second means of propulsion is fitted. Owners of larger vessels should consider some means of auxiliary power as an effective safety device.

“V” Sheet

The V sheet is a fluorescent orange-red coloured sheet (1.8 x 1.2 metres) with a large black V printed in the middle. V sheets are required to be carried by all vessels operating offshore. They can be spread over the deck of a boat to indicate that you are in trouble or flown as a flag.

Waterproof Torch

A torch is a valuable safety device for signalling and when working on the engine. Spare bulbs and batteries should be carried.

Other Recommended Safety Equipment

First Aid Kit

It makes good sense to carry a complete first aid kit aboard appropriate to the size of the boat.

Tool Kit

Although not part of the safety equipment requirements, every vessel should have a tool kit.

The basic items in a tool kit include a spark plug spanner and spark plugs (for petrol engines), small spanner, pliers, philips head and standard screwdrivers, spare fuel line, electrical wiring, insulation tape and a can of water repellent.

Care of Equipment

Safety equipment is generally durable and long lasting. Keep small storable items like flares, “V” sheet, epirb, torch and other bits and pieces in a sealed waterproof container.
Make sure items like the radio and fire extinguisher are protected from saltwater.

You must look after your lifejackets – don’t use them as cushions or fenders and keep them away from oil and fuel.
Ensure these jackets are accessible in a dry, well ventilated area and let everyone on board know where they are.

Before You Go

Before you head out on the water here are a few simple tips to assist in trouble free boating:

Weather

The NSW Bureau of Meteorology issues forecasts each day at around 5am, 10.30am and 4pm. The Bureau tailors the weather forecasts to six zones: Far-North Coast (Tweed Heads to Wooli), Mid-North Coast (Wooli to Seal Rocks), Hunter (Seal Rocks to Broken Bay), Sydney (Broken Bay to Port Hacking),Illawarra (Port Hacking to Ulladulla) and South Coast (Ulladulla to Gabo Island) plus Sydney Enclosed Waters (Pittwater, Port Jackson and Botany Bay). See the Bureau’s website for a location map.

Warnings for strong winds (winds averaging 25 to 33 knots), gale force winds (34 to 47 knots) and storm force (48 knots or more) are issued when necessary and updated every six hours.
Forecasts and warnings are also broadcast frequently over AM and FM radio stations. Warnings are available by phoning 1300 659 218 (low cost call) and selecting Option 3.
NSW Maritime provides forecasts on phone 13 12 36 (Option 3).
The Bureau also offers a facsimile service which provides all forecasts, weather observations, satellite cloud photographs and synoptic weather charts. A full menu of available items can be obtained by polling Freefax number 1800 061 439.
Once on the water, it is important to monitor regular weather reports, especially if changes are predicted. The movement of fronts is sometimes difficult to forecast and the predicted time of arrival may be revised.

The Bureau of Meteorology broadcasts forecasts and warnings on HF bands, via voice and fax. A number of organisations also broadcast this information on marine band radios (27 MHz, VHF and HF bands) at regular intervals or on request. They include: Sydney Ports, Penta Comstat, Australian Volunteer Coast Guard and the Royal Volunteer Coastal Patrol.
See www.bom.gov.au/marine/ for details.

 

Click here for the safety awareness message on weather.

Overloading

Overloading/Stability

Overloading can contribute to the capsize or swamping of a vessel.
Never load your boat with passengers or cargo beyond its safe carrying capacity. Too many people or gear will cause the boat to become unstable, resulting in capsize or swamping. Always balance the boat to maintain proper trim and use the vessel’s capacity plate or Australian Builders Plate to determine the maximum number of persons you can safely carry in calm weather.

Going Aboard Small Vessels

When moving onto or off small craft remember:

Loading a Boat

Always stow heavy items as low as possible in the boat. Make sure they are secure. Ensure loads are distributed evenly to maintain appropriate freeboard and trim of your vessel.

Preparing Children For Boating

If you take your children boating, teach them emergency procedures. It will improve their confidence and your peace of mind.

1. Make sure that they have well fitting lifejackets. See if they can put them on in the dark or while in the water. Small children including toddlers and babies should be encouraged to wear an appropriate lifejacket at all times.

2. Learn to swim and practice emergency positions like HELP and Huddle.

3. Teach them to stay with a capsized boat or an easily seen floating object, making them easier to be seen by rescuers.

4. Show them around the boat and where all emergency items are located. If they are old enough to understand, show them how to use equipment such as radios, EPIRBs and flares, stressing the importance of not using them unless real trouble exists and the penalties that exist for misuse.

5. Teach them about stability and loading the boat, how to get in and out of dinghies and small boats.

6. Teach them the rules about keeping a good lookout, avoiding collisions and reducing wash.

 

Report Your Trip

COMMUNICATE

• WHERE YOU ARE GOING
• HOW MANY PEOPLE ON BOARD
• WHEN YOU WILL RETURN

Log In

Use your marine radio to log in with a coastal radio base before you leave.

Tell them where you are going, estimated time of return, vessel name and how many people on board. You should also consider leaving their details with a responsible contact person.
Log off on return. Report in if the trip is extended.

Boat Driver Licensing

The speed at which a boat is driven determines whether a person needs to be licensed.

Any person who drives a recreational powered vessel on NSW waters at a speed of 10 knots or more must have a boat driver’s licence.

Ten knots is the speed at which most accelerating boats will start to plane – that is rise up and skim on top of the water instead of ploughing through it.

The exception is anyone who drives a personal watercraft (PWC) at ANY speed must have a PWC Licence.

Types of Licence

General Licence

A licence for people aged 16 years and over to drive any vessel, except a PWC at 10 knots or more.

General Young Adult Licence

A restricted licence for those aged from 12 to under 16 years. A Young Adult Licensee must:
(i) be accompanied by the holder of a General Licence when travelling at 10 knots or more
(ii) never exceed 20 knots
(iii) never travel at 10 knots or more after sunset and before sunrise
(iv) never travel at 10 knots or more when towing an aquaplaner
(v) never tow a water skier or wake boarder
(vi) not drive in any race, display, regatta or exhibition without prior consent from the NSW Maritime and
(vii) never operate a PWC unless the holder of a Young Adult PWC Licence.

Personal Watercraft (PWC) Licence

A special licence is required to ride a PWC regardles of what speed it is driven. To obtain a PWC licence, the test for a General Licence must be passed first. Additional test questions must then be passed. Persons who hold a General Licence can upgrade to a PWC Licence at any time by correctly answering additional questions.

Young Adult PWC Licence

A restricted licence for those aged from 12 to under 16 years who wish to drive a PWC. The same conditions which apply to the General Young Adult Licence apply to this licence. A Young Adult PWC Licence holder must be accompanied by a PWC Licence holder when operating at a speed of 10 knots or more.

Licence Period

A General Licence or PWC Licence is available for either 12 months or three years. You will save money by selecting a three year licence.

A one-year General Licence is issued as a paper licence and a three year licence as both a paper and plastic card. All PWC licences are issued as plastic photo identity cards.

Rescue Organisations

Members of approved rescue organisations, trained and qualified to drive vessels belonging to that organisation, may be exempted from holding a boating licence while on official duties. Examples of acceptable qualifications are the NSW SES Flood Rescue Boat Operators Qualification, and the Surf Life Saving NSW Inflatable Rescue Boat Drivers Certificates. These qualificationsare not valid for recreational use, but can be converted to aGeneral Licence upon application to NSW Maritime. Contact your organisation for details and payment of relevant fees.

Commercial Qualifications

An appropriate certificate of competency is required to take charge of vessels used for commercial purposes. To obtain these qualifications you will need to have records of your boating experience, complete approved training courses and meet minimum medical and eyesight standards. Further details can be obtained by contacting NSW Maritime Infoline on 13 12 36 or by visiting www.maritime.nsw.gov.au

How to Obtain a Licence

Anyone wishing to obtain a boat licence must, from 1 October 2006, first undertake compulsory boating education either by studying an online Boating Safety Course, viewing a DVD/video Boating Safety Course or attending a Boating Safety Course conducted by NSW Maritime or an accredited agency. A nominal fee will apply.

A Boating Safety Course completion certificate is then to be presented to the boat licence test examiner within 12 months of the certificate date prior to attempting the licence test. A licence test fee is payable for each attempt at the licence test.Approved licence testers are: NSW Maritime, Royal Volunteer Coastal Patrol (RVCP), the Australian Volunteer Coast Guard Association (AVCGA), Volunteer Rescue Association (VRA), some regional Roads and Traffic Authority (RTA) offices and Goverment Access Centres (GACs).

A list of participating offices/centres is available on NSW Maritime’s website or by contacting Info Line on 13 12 56. The compulsory seminar and licence test does not apply if a person obtains a certificate of successful completion of an accredited boating course.

NSW Maritime accepts some courses from certain organisations as satisfying the licence test requirements. These organisations conduct courses which not only teach you the requirements for a general licence but often include practical training in boat driving. They include the NSW Maritime licence test in their assessment process and issue a course completion certificate. To apply for a NSW general licence you must present the course completion certificate within six months at a NSW Maritime office and complete the application process.

Approved courses are available from:

• 
  ABC Licence Training Pty Ltd.
• 
  Defence Maritime Services
• 
  Maritime and Safety Training
• 
  NSW Boating College
• 
  Boating Licence Course
• 
  Yachting Australia

• National Powerboat Training Scheme
• National Yacht Cruising Scheme
• National Motor Cruising Scheme
• Contact Yachting Australia or affiliated clubs

• 
  State Emergency Service – flood rescue boat operators qualification
• 
  Surf Life Saving NSW – inflatable rescue boat drivers certificates.

Goverment Access Centres and some regional Roads and Traffic Authority offices also conduct NSW Maritime boat licence tests. It will however be necessary for you to finalise your application at a NSW Maritime office.

When Applying for a Licence:

• an applicant must provide Proof of Identity documentation before sitting the tests. See the section on Proof of Identity in this book
• Young Adult Licence applicants must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian when sitting the test. proof of identity of the parent or guardian is required
• PWC Licence applicants must provide two colour passport acceptable photographs (light background). PWC Licences are plastic photo cards and two new photos will be required each time the licence is renewed
• an applicant will be required to complete an application form, provide information about any medical conditions which may affect their ability to operate a boat, meet eyesight standards and pay the appropriate fees.

Remember

You must carry your licence and produce it for inspection when requested by a NSW Maritime officer, a member of the Police or other authorised officers.

Owners of vessels must be able to identify the person driving their vessel at all times, even if the owner is not onboard at the time.

Licence holders and owners of vessels should promptly notify NSW Maritime of any changes to personal details or address. Licences sent to the wrong address can be cancelled and a re-instatement fee charged.If your licence has not been renewed within two years of its expiry date you will need to pass the licence test again.

Recognition of Licences

Temporary recognition of licences is available to visitors from interstate or overseas.

A NSW licence is not required when:

(i) your usual place of residence is outside NSW, and
(ii) you have not been in NSW continuously during the three months preceding the date on which you are driving the vessel, and
(iii) you hold and carry a valid current licence or permit to drive a vessel of the type you are driving issued under the legislation of another State, Territory or country.

If any of the above conditions cannot be met and you wish to drive a power-driven vessel at 10 knots or more or a PWC regardless of its speed on navigable waters in NSW, you must hold a current NSW General Licence or PWC Licence.

Please note you are required to comply with NSW boating laws while boating in this State. That includes carrying your licence when boating.

Proof of Identity

To ensure the accuracy of records held by NSW Maritime, proof of identity (POI) is necessary when conducting a business transaction.

There are three types of POI documents: Full, Primary and Secondary. Either one full POI document or at least one primary and one secondary POI document is required.

Full POI Documents

Primary POI Documents (Examples)

Secondary POI Documents (Examples)

For other acceptable POI documents and for further information contact the Infoline on 13 12 56.

Other Licences

Aquatic Licence

The State’s waterways are a community resource which is often subject to conflicting demands for access. In order to balance organised activities on the waterways with the rights of other users, NSW Maritime issue aquatic licences, under the Water Traffic Regulations – NSW.

When is an aquatic licence required?

An aquatic licence is required by any person or organisation conducting, promoting or organising an event/activity such as a race, display, regatta, exhibition or any other activity which restricts the availability of navigable waters for normal use by the public.

 

Penalties apply for conducting an event/activity without an aquatic licence.

Activities for which an aquatic licence is required include:

Depending on the circumstances and type of activity, NSW Maritime may grant, if requested, ‘exclusive use’ of a waterway, or section of it, for conduct of the aquatic activity.

 

If exclusive use is permitted, the aquatic event organiser must arrange for an approved notice containing details of the activity, to be placed in newspapers circulating in the district where the event/activity is to be conducted and in metropolitan newspapers of Sydney, Newcastle and Wollongong where the activity is to be held within 120 km of these cities.

 

Depending on the type of aquatic event/activity to be conducted, NSW Maritime will determine whether a full marine notice or small public notice is required to be published.

 

All costs associated with advertising are to be borne by the aquatic event organiser and notices must be placed not more than 14 days prior to commencement of the event/activity.

How is an aquatic licence obtained?

All applicants for an aquatic licence must submit a completed Application for Aquatic Licence, together with required supporting documentation and appropriate fee, a minimum of four (4) weeks prior to commencement of the event/activity.

 

Late applications will incur a late fee or the application may be refused.
When submitting the application the following information must be provided:

• full details of the event/activity including type, date(s), time, location and area of operation;
• a detailed map of the area in which the event/activity is to take place;
• an acknowledgement that a Risk Assessment in relation to the Event has been undertaken by the applicant in which all risks associated with the Event have been listed and strategies to alleviate these risks identified and implemented;
• an operational plan detailing safety procedures, rescue craft, qualified personnel in attendance and communications procedures;
• written authorisation on the organisation’s letterhead for the nominated representative to act on behalf of the applicant;
• proof of identity for both the applicant and nominated representative;
• details of a contact officer if different to nominated representative who can be contacted during the conduct of the event/activity; and
• licence application fee.

In addition, the following supporting documentation must be provided where relevant:

• written consent from the landowner, including Local Council, for use of the foreshore land to be used in connection with the event/activity;
• written authorisation from the Local Council where the noise level is expected to exceed 95 decibels;
• a copy of the Work Cover Risk Assessment for fire-works events; and
• completed NSW Marine Parks Authority Permit Application form where the proposed event/activity is within a Marine Park.

Do conditions apply to an aquatic licence?

All aquatic licences issued are subject to a standard set of conditions and depending on the type of event/activity to be conducted, additional conditions may apply. Also ‘local’ conditions may apply for a particular aquatic licence event/activity.

 

When NSW Maritime approves an application for aquatic licence, the applicant is forwarded an aquatic licence certificate together with a list of all conditions applicable to that licence.

 

An aquatic licence is issued on the basis that all conditions are complied with and penalties apply for non compliance.

What insurance requirements apply to an aquatic licence?

An aquatic licence is issued on the basis that the Licensee expressly and unreservedly indemnifies NSW Maritime from all liability associated with the Event/activity and releases NSW Maritime from any actions, of whatsoever nature, that may be instituted in relation to the Event/activity. Acceptance of the Licence constitutes irrevocable acceptance of this condition.

 

It is a condition of the Licence that the Licensee clearly advises all participants whether or not they are covered by the Licensee’s insurance should they sustain injury or loss/damage to property as a result of participating in the event. All details of the coverage must be provided prior to participation in the Event/activity.

 

It is also a condition of the licence that the Licensee must give a written warning to all participants in relation to risks associated with participating in the Event/activity and a written acknowledgement obtained from all participants. The warning and acknowledgement can be included in the application required to be completed by the participant.

What fees apply to aquatic licences?

Unless exempted, fees apply, and are based on the type and duration of the aquatic event/activity to be conducted. The types of aquatic licence issued are as follows:

• aquatic licence of not more than 3 days
• aquatic licence of more than 3 days but less than 12 months
• aquatic licence of not more than 3 days (exclusive use)

Additional fees may apply for expenses incurred by NSW Maritime in respect of:

• attendance by NSW Maritime officer(s) at the event/activity
• the use of additional safety measures such as the provision of escort vessels

Exemptions to the payment of aquatic licence fees apply to an event/activity conducted by:

• educational institutions where the event/activity is sanctioned by the NSW Department of Education
• volunteer organisations
• registered charitable organisations

For details on fees, proof of identity and further information please contact:

• your local NSW Maritime operations centre, or
• NSW Maritime’s Info Line on 13 12 56 (8.30 am – 4.30pm) 7 days a week

Mooring Licences

A mooring licence is required to moor your vessel in a particular location. A mooring licence gives holders the right to occupy navigable waters and is renewed annually.

A mooring licence is not a lease of the seabed and there is no guarantee of tenure. The only thing that permanently occupies the seabed is the mooring block.

Types of Mooring Licences

There are three types of mooring licence: Private; Commercial and Club. Each of these licences are subject to conditions. For further information on commercial and club moorings please contact Info Line on 13 12 56 or your local NSW Maritime operation centre.

Private Mooring Licence

The issue of a Private Mooring Licence is subject to availability and only available to an individual who is the owner or equal majority shareholder of a vessel with a length of 5.2m or more. There are three tiers of mooring licence fee depending on the location in NSW and the fee scale is dependant of the length of the vessel. In areas where moorings are not available, a priority list will exist. On receipt of your application and payment of the fee your name will be added to the priority list in strict order of application.

Hire and Drive

If you’d like to hire a small boat and operate it yourself you should be aware of the following:

For more information go to Hire and Drive System for NSW

Registration of Vessels

The following vessels must be registered with NSW Maritime when they are on navigable waters in NSW:

Exemptions from this requirement include:

Application for Registration

Application forms for initial registration are available at any NSW Maritime operation centre. When applying for registration, you must provide the following:

An acceptable receipt must include the following details:

• Full name and signature of seller
• Full name and address of buyer
• Date of sale and the words ‘received payment in full’ or similiar and
• HIN/ Boatcode number (if applicable) and a full description of vessel

If the receipt/ bill of sale does not include the essential requirements another receipt or Statutory Declaration must be provided detailing the required information.

Transfer

When selling a vessel the registered controller must complete and forward the Notice of Disposal to NSW Maritime. The registered controller must also sign the reverse side of the registration certificate and give it, together with an acceptable receipt to the buyer for transfer purposes. The buyer has 21 days to complete the transfer otherwise a late fee will be charged.

 

The buyer must also provide proof of identity and a Boatcode (HIN) certificate (if applicable).

Personalised Vessel Registration

Personalised vessel registrations can be applied for at any NSW Maritime operations centre. Subject to availability they may be any combination of up to six alpha/numeric characters (which are not offensive) and must always be followed by the letter “N”. An additional fee applies.

Registration Numbers

Mechanically propelled vessels must show registration numbers on each side of the vessel at least 150mm high and clearly visible while underway. They should be located on the forward section of the vessel’s hull on each side of the vessel.
Sailing vessels must show registration numbers on the transom or on both sides of the hull adjacent to the stern. In the case of multi hull craft, the numbers must be on the outer faces of the external hulls adjacent to the stern. The figures must be at least 100mm high and be visible when the vessel is underway.
Note: For registration purposes, a “sailing vessel” means a vessel which has sails as its primary means of propulsion.
PWC must have registration numbers on each side of the craft in figures of at least 100mm high, where they are clearly visible when the vessel is underway.
Commercial vessels must display a permit number or commercial registration number. The number must be displayed on each side of the hull or on the transom in figures at least 150mm high.
Registration numbers must be clearly visible at a distance of 60m.

Display of Registration NumbersThe numbers should be of contrasting colours to the boat’s hull. Black numbers are standard on a light coloured hull, but on a dark coloured hull you should use white or pale figures.

Capacity Stickers

Capacity stickers must be displayed clearly on all powered vessels (except PWC). These stickers indicate the maximum number of people to be carried on a particular vessel. The sticker must be within one metre of the steering position(s) and clearly visible.
The capacity is normally calculated by the manufacturer and is often shown on a special plate attached to the hull. Alternatively, a sticker issued by NSW Maritime will indicate the appropriate number of passengers. This capacity is the maximum number for good conditions. A reduction in the maximum number must be made in adverse weather conditions or when on open waters. If not, the master may be guilty of negligent navigation.
In determining whether your vessel complies with the capacity limits, the following applies:

• children up to one year of age are not counted (although you still require safety equipment for them)
• each child between the ages of one and twelve equals one half of an adult and
• capacity of a person is assessed at 75kg per person with an additional allowance of 15kg per person for personal gear.

Australian Builders Plate

From 1 July 2006 an Australian Builders Plate is required on most new recreational vessels either built in Australia or imported to Australia. The Australian Builders Plate provides essential safety information for the owner or prospective buyer on matters such as the maximum number of people and load of a boat, buoyancy performance, engine weight and rating.
There are two types of Builders late: one for vessels under 6 metres in length and another for vessels 6 metres or more in length. The key difference is the buoyancy requirement which will only be displayed on the plate for vessels of under 6 metres in length.
The plate will be permanently fixed by the builder, manufacturer or importer prior to purchase and be readily visible to the boat’s operator in the cockpit or near the steering position.
For further information log onto the National Marine Safety Committee website www.nmsc.gov.au.

Registration Label

The registration label, which is issued as part of the annual registration renewal, must be attached to the exterior of a powered vessel on the port side where it is clearly visible. On sailing vessels, it must be placed on the transom or port side of the hull.

Fees

Information regarding current fees is available from Info Line 13 12 56.

Change of address

You must promptly notify NSW Maritime of any changes of address in writing or by telephoning the Info Line.

Recognition of Registration

Temporary exemption from the NSW registration requirements is available to visitors from another State, Territory or overseas. NSW registration is not required as long as the vessel:

(i) is not ordinarily used on navigable waters in NSW and
(ii) has not been in NSW for more than three months and
(iii) is currently registered in another State, Territory or overseas and
(iv) is properly numbered and carries an identification plate required by the law of its home State, Territory or country.
If any of these conditions cannot be met and the vessel is registrable under NSW law, it must carry NSW registration when on navigable waters in this State.
If the home State/ Territory or Overseas vessel does not have registration requirement, the vessel must be registered in NSW, or another State.

Note: Vessels in Australian registry are not exempted from NSW registration.

Boatcode

Boating Offences

Penalty notices

If an offence is committed, authorised officers may issue a penalty infringement notice requiring payment of a penalty within a prescribed period.

Serious offences

Serious or repeat offences under the marine legislation will result in proceedings in a court after the issue of a court attendance notice. Such offences may include dangerous or negligent navigation.

Alcohol and Drug Offences

Breath testing, including random breath testing (RBT), can be conducted on the operator of a vessel while it is underway. RBT does not apply when a vessel is moored, berthed or at anchor. However, remain under the legal limit when out on the water in case you need to move your vessel.

Permissable concentration of alcohol limits are as follows:

The operator of a vessel includes anyone steering or exercising control over the course or direction of a vessel and includes the observer in a ski boat or PWC, as well as the person being towed.

Penalties range from $1100 for a first offence in the low range (0.05-0.08) to a $5500 fine and up to 2 years imprisonment, or both, for a second offence in the high range (0.15 and above).

A court may also choose to cancel or suspend a person’s licence if they are found guilty of driving a boat under the influence.

 

Check out the safety awareness message on alcohol.

Naval Vessels

For safety reasons, persons are prohibited from climbing, attaching themselves to or helping another person to attach themselves to a naval vessel. A ‘moving exclusion zone’ has also been introduced for naval vessels whilst on NSW waters. This zone extends 200m from the bow and 60m either side of a naval vessel whilst it is underway. A ‘distance off’ of 60m from a naval vessel that is moored, anchored or berthed also applies at all times. Penalties apply.

Other Offences

PWC Penalties

There are on-the-spot fines of up to $1500 for the offence of navigating a PWC in an exclusion zone. These fines are distinct from the one applying to the irregular driving prohibition within the 200 metre zone, which will attract a fine of $160.

Other penalties include:

Note: Fines for riding a PWC without a licence are served upon the rider and the owner.

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