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.

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.

Setting Off

Start your engine, allowing it to warm up before you set off. Untie any mooring ropes from the jetty or wharf, leaving them ied to the boat, coiled and ready for future use. Make sure all ropes are inside the boat and not trailing in the water where they can be caught in the propeller.

Check that the area is clear of traffic before moving away, taking note of any speed limits or ‘no wash’ signs that may be in the area. Be careful not to create excessive wash when passing anglers (people fishing), passive craft or moored boats to avoid rocking them about.
Keep to the right side of the channel (see the section on Navigation Markers for more information).

Slowing Down and Stopping

Boats don’t have brakes, so give yourself plenty of time to stop. In a powerboat ease off the throttle and move into neutral, using short bursts in reverse gear to slow down and come to a final halt. Remember, some craft are more difficult to handle a vessel when in reverse. You may need an occasional forward boost to gain better control.

Steering

When steering a boat with a wheel, get to know the feel of the wheel and the rudder position before you set off.

Using a tiller is simple, though different to a wheel, providing you remember that pushing to the right will make the boat head left and vice versa. Be patient and plan ahead – the boat will take a few seconds to respond.

Tying Up

To keep your boat secure you need to tie up with rope for both the bow and stern. Many mooring sites have bollards or rings to tie up to – choose ones a short distance beyond the bow or/ stern of your boat. Run your ropes about 45o from your boat, loop them back onto the boat and tie securely, but not too tightly. Be aware of the rise and fall of the tide.

Make sure you know how to use your ropes properly. Keep them coiled, free of knots and ready for use.

Mooring

Slow down almost to a stop and carry out all your manoeuvres as slowly as possible. Move your boat very slowly, pointing the bow towards the mooring buoy, then use reverse to stop the boat just before the front hits the buoy. Put the engine into neutral.

Anchoring

When anchoring, lower the anchor to the bottom and let the vessel go astern until sufficient line is let out – this normally means three times as much line as the depth of water. If the weather deteriorates, increase the ratio to 5:1 or more.

You should have a length of chain between the anchor and the anchor line to cushion the vessel’s motion and help the flukes to dig in. The chain also stops the anchor line chaffing on the bottom. The bigger the vessel, the more chain you require.
In choosing your anchoring position, you should take into account local tides, possible wind changes and swing room required to keep your vessel away from any other vessels or hazards nearby. These factors are particularly important at crowded anchorages, or if you plan to stay overnight or leave your vessel unattended for even a brief period. If the water is fairly shallow, you may have to periodically adjust the amount of line you have out to allow for changes in depth caused by tides.
Avoid anchoring in sensitive habitats such as seagrass. Areas of seagrass are usually visible as dark patches on the sea bed. Damage from an individual anchor can potentially set off progressive seagrass loss over a wide area.
Historic shipwrecks are also easily damaged by anchors and anchoring in their vicinity should not be attempted during strong currents.
If you break down, you should attempt to remain in the one location by anchoring, or if conditions make this difficult, setting a sea anchor or drogue.

Boating on Inland Waters

Boating on inland waterways including rivers, creeks and dams demands special care. Many of these areas present issues not encountered in coastal waters including submerged trees, shallow sand bars and other snags which may be encountered.

Inland waterways are often murky and constantly changing so it is important to keep a lookout for objects that can impede your navigation. If you have one, use a depth finder to tell you the depth of the water. If you don’t have a depth finder, play it safe and reduce speed.

Familiarise yourself with the area and use maps and charts wherever you can – they will give you a good idea of areas to stay away from. Talk to local operators as they can often provide you with information that you won’t find on a chart, such as how the current runs after rain and water depth following drought.

It is also important to keep a good lookout for objects ahead or above you such as overhead powerlines, low level bridges and anything else that may impede your progress and compromise your safety.

Strong currents in major rivers and creeks can flow at fast rates and affect the manoeuvrability of vessels. Never underestimate the power of even a moderate current, which can exert a strong force that may trap vessels such as canoes against rocks. Extra caution is especially required following heavy rain or flooding.

Be careful in dams subject to water releases. These releases mean the areas near spillways can be extremely dangerous due to turbulence as the water flows through spillway gates. Boats can easily become caught in the turbulence and trapped against the gates or even forced through them. Stay well clear of such areas.

Also remember that during release periods, the foreshore can become soft, trapping vehicles during attempts to launch and retrieve boats.

The surface of the water in shallow dams and storage areas can become rough in windy conditions. If you are out when weather conditions change, store any unnecessary gear (removing any conductors of electricity if lightning is present) and make sure that everyone is wearing a lifejacket. If land is near, head for it.

If you are forced to ride out the storm, keep the bow into the waves, wind and/or current. If the motor fails, an anchor from the bow will allow the boat to ride up and over most oncoming waves as anchoring from the stern can cause water to rise over the transom, flooding or even capsizing the boat.

If you are going to go boating in remote locations have a good reporting plan in place. Always tell someone where you will be, where you will be launching from, how many people are with you and when you intend to return.

In some areas good phone or radio coverage is not always possible, making assistance difficult if any problems occur. And remember not to overload your vessel. While these rivers and dams may look peaceful, always consider the low water temperature and remote location could prove risky should trouble occur.
Alpine Lakes (Eucumbene, Jindabyne, Tumut, Blowering and Burrinjuck)

Alpine lakes present there own unique boating challenges. As with other inland waters many hazards are not marked and as water levels fluctuate more hazards may develop just under the surface.

The most common vessel operated in these areas is the small open runabout which is reasonably inexpensive to buy, easy to tow and use as a fishing platform. The majority of these vessels however, are designed for calm water conditions only.
Alpine Weather

There is no specific boating forecast provided by the Bureau of Meteorology for alpine lakes. Any person boating in those areas needs to review the available general weather conditions and forecasts and determine how they may affect the waterway they propose to operate on. It must be remembered that weather conditions in high altitudes can change dramatically within a matter of minutes and proper trip preparation is essential.

Wind and Waves

The surface of the water in shallow dams and storage areas can become extremely rough in windy conditions. Waves are generally short and steep, and can be as high as those encountered in coastal areas.

The following recommendations apply in these situations:

• 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.

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.

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.

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.

• 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.

A surf kite and board is classified as a “vessel” and therefore comes under NSW marine legislation.

A Code of Conduct for kite surfing has been developed by NSW Maritime in conjunction with the Australian Kite Surfing Association (AKSA).

Requirements:

Distance off

• 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.

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.