Recreational Skipper’s Ticket Workbook PDF 2024

Recreational Skipper’s Ticket Workbook Eighth Edition - November 2024 www.transport.wa.gov.au/imarine Department of Transport Where to get assessed? An RST Interim Certificate being issued Assessment Locati...

Recreational Skipper’s Ticket Workbook Eighth Edition - November 2024 www.transport.wa.gov.au/imarine Department of Transport Where to get assessed? An RST Interim Certificate being issued Assessment Locations The Department of Transport (DoT) has established a network of Authorised Providers who conduct Recreational Skipper’s Ticket assessment throughout the State. A list of Authorised Providers and the regions they service can be found on DoT’s website: www.transport.wa.gov.au/imarine/rst Contact an Authorised Provider in your area to obtain details on assessment locations, times and prices. DoT does not regulate the assessment fee, prices vary, so shop around for the deal that best suits your needs. For more information visit our website: www.transport.wa.gov.au/imarine or phone the RST information line on 13 11 56  Recreational Skipper’s Ticket Workbook You’re the skipper, you’re responsible To skipper a recreational vessel in Western Australia you’ll need to demonstrate a minimum set of core competencies. Developed by the Department of Transport (DoT), the agency responsible for marine safety in Western Australia, the Recreational Skipper’s Ticket (RST) will ensure that people in charge of recreational vessels have the minimum skills and knowledge to protect themselves and their passengers, and to share the waterways safely with others. This workbook contains all the information that you will need to know in order to obtain an RST: the enrolment and assessment processes; the theoretical components (with sample questions to test your knowledge); and the practical component skills you will need to demonstrate. We hope that you find this workbook both useful and informative and trust that the RST process will encourage you to continue your pursuit of boating knowledge. The greater the depth of your knowledge, the more confident and competent skipper you will be. To keep abreast of the latest marine safety information we recommend you register to receive our Boating Community Newsletter by subscribing at www.transport.wa.gov.au/imarine/boating-communities- newsletter.asp and join us on Facebook at facebook.com/MarineSafetyWA I wish you a safe and enjoyable time on the water! Yours sincerely Chris J Mather Executive Director Maritime 1 Department of Transport The RST practical assessment 2  Recreational Skipper’s Ticket Workbook Workbook Chapters 1. The Recreational Skipper’s Ticket 5 7. Safety Equipment 49 2. Rules and Regulations 11 8. Safe Operations 73 3. Collision Avoidance 27 9. Emergencies 83 4. Navigation Lights 31 10. Practical Assessment 91 5. IALA Buoyage 37 11. Appendices 115 6. Maintenance 43 3 Department of Transport Contents The Recreational Skipper’s Ticket 5 Who has to have one? 5 What must I provide for the assessor? 7 What are the age limits? 5 Where can I be assessed? 9 RST requirements 5 Must I attend a training course? 9 How do I get one? 6 Lost or damaged RST 9 Letter of consent 6 Will it be recognised in other states? 9 Skills recognition 6 Interstate or overseas ticket valid for three months 9 Who does the assessing? 7 The RST Interim Certificate 4  Recreational Skipper’s Ticket Workbook The Recreational Skipper’s Ticket The Recreational Skipper’s Ticket (RST) is a qualification based on a set of competencies that have been adopted by all government marine safety authorities in Australia to contribute to and to promote: safe use of waterways; and awareness of boating safety. The assessment of these competencies is in two sections: theory and practical. Depending on your prior qualifications, you may be exempt from the assessment. A list of recognised qualifications is available on our website: www.transport.wa.gov.au/imarine/rst-skills-recognition-and-equivalents.asp Who has to have one? What are the age limits? The person in charge of a recreational vessel People of 14 years and older may hold an RST. propelled by a motor greater than 6 hp (4.5 kW) must RST holders aged from 14 years but under 16 years hold an RST. of age are restricted to operating during daylight hours and at a speed not exceeding 8 knots. RST requirements Functions that can be performed by the following age groups? RST Function At least 10 At least 14 required Under 10 At least 16 At least 17 At least 18 but under 14 but under 16 Be the holder of an RST ✓ ✗ ✗ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ Boats with a motor of 6 hp or less Skipper a boat with a motor 6 hp or less ✗ ✗ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ Drive a boat towing a water skier ✗ ✗ ✗ ✗ ✗ ✓ ✓ Drive a boat when engaged in towing operations ✗ ✗ ✗ ✗ ✗ ✓ ✓ Boats with a motor over 6 hp Skipper a boat with a motor greater than 6 hp ✓ ✗ ✗ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ Skipper a boat at a speed greater than 8 knots ✓ ✗ ✗ ✗ ✓ ✓ ✓ Skipper a boat between sunset and sunrise ✓ ✗ ✗ ✗ ✓ ✓ ✓ Skipper a boat when engaged in towing operations ✓ ✗ ✗ ✗ ✗ ✓ ✓ Drive a boat towing a water skier (an RST holder must ✗ ✗ ✗ ✗ ✗ ✓ ✓ be on board supervising) Drive a boat while not holding an RST (an RST holder ✗ ✗ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ must be on board supervising) Supervise a person driving a boat (who doesn’t hold ✓ ✗ ✗ ✗ ✗ ✗ ✓ an RST) Definition: Skipper: The person responsible for the safe operation of the vessel and the safety of all on board. Drive: To be at the helm and physically operate the controls of the vessel. 5 Department of Transport How do I get one? Specific tasks you will be assessed on include: To obtain an RST you must have your knowledge and operating the vessel within the marine safety rules skills assessed by an RST authorised assessor. The and regulations throughout the assessment; assessments will cover the following areas: checking the condition of a vessel’s berthing and Theoretical mooring equipment and securing the vessel; A 40 question multiple-choice paper (using questions conducting a safety briefing for all on board; of a similar standard to the samples in this workbook) preparing and starting the motor safely; will assess your knowledge and understanding of: logging a voyage plan; Rules and regulations safely departing a berth; Collision avoidance safely retrieving a simulated man overboard; Navigation lights determining your position by using navigational IALA buoyage marks, transits and other landmarks; Maintenance performing a controlled stop; Safety equipment returning to a berth and securing the vessel; and Safe operations logging off. Emergencies. Applicants who obtain a result of at least 56 out of You will need to get at least 34 questions correct the 62 criteria (six wrong or less) will be deemed before progressing to the practical assessment. competent. Answering between 30 and 33 questions correctly is An applicant will only be able to undertake one not sufficient: however, you may attempt a different practical assessment per day. If an applicant fails set of questions on the same day. If you answer an assessment, they will need to book another less than 30 questions correctly you will need to sit assessment on another day. the assessment on another day. A maximum of two Once you have successfully completed the theoretical attempts are allowed in one day. assessment and demonstrated the practical tasks A range of quizzes to help you prepare for the to DoT’s standards your assessor will issue you a assessment are available on our website: Receipt of Completion certificate. This entitles you to www.transport.wa.gov.au/imarine/rst-practice-quizzes.asp immediately skipper a recreational vessel with a motor over 6 hp (4.5 kW). Practical Once your records are approved and processed by The practical assessment will take about 30 minutes DoT an RST card will be sent to your home address. and requires you to demonstrate a well-conducted boating trip, including preparation and vessel Letter of consent manoeuvring. If you’re under 18, you must have a letter of consent signed by your parent or legal guardian prior to commencing the RST assessment. A proforma letter can be found on page 119. Skills recognition If you hold a current recreational or commercial qualification that is listed on DoT’s website: www. transport.wa.gov.au/imarine/rst-skills-recognition-and-equivalents. asp then you may apply for an RST through the Skills Recognition scheme. This will require submitting your qualification to an authorised provider for verification. A list of authorised providers can be found on DoT’s website: www.transport.wa.gov.au/imarine/how-to-get-an-rst.asp Assessment will take approximately 30 minutes 6  Recreational Skipper’s Ticket Workbook Who does the assessing? Medical fitness declaration You will need to book in for assessment through A serious medical condition could conceivably affect an RST authorised provider. DoT maintains a list of your ability to safely operate a recreational vessel. A RST authorised providers that can be viewed on our self-declared medical statement is required before website: www.transport.wa.gov.au/imarine/how-to-get-an-rst.asp obtaining the RST. You must advise DoT if you suffer from any physical What must I provide for the assessor? or mental condition that could affect your ability to Before assessment can take place, you must safely operate a vessel. This could include: complete an RST application form and provide the epilepsy, fits, giddiness, fainting, seizures; assessor with certain declarations (eyesight and medical) and proof of identity (POI). heart disease; high/low blood pressure; Eyesight declaration To hold an RST you must have a minimum corrected arthritis; vision standard of at least 6/12, in at least one eye. type 1 diabetes; or A valid Australian driver’s licence or learner’s permit any other physical or mental disability that could will be accepted as proof of adequate eyesight to be affect your ability to safely operate a vessel. in charge of a recreational vessel. If you suffer from any of the above listed conditions and If you don’t hold a recognised Australian motor you believe that it could affect your ability to operate driver’s licence or learner’s permit you will need a vessel safely, you must have a medical practitioner to have a medical practitioner, qualified nurse or complete an RST Declaration of Medical Fitness optometrist complete an RST Eyesight Declaration form on your behalf. The form is available from your form. The form is available from your authorised authorised provider or can be downloaded from our provider or can be downloaded from our website: website: www.transport.wa.gov.au/imarine/how-to-get-an-rst.asp www.transport.wa.gov.au/imarine/how-to-get-an-rst.asp A Medical and/or Eyesight declaration may be required 7 Department of Transport Proof of identity requirements Acceptable forms of primary identification: As part of the enrolment process, proof of identity overseas passport (not expired more than two (POI) needs to be established. Applicants must show years); POI to verify their name and signature. Australian citizenship or naturalisation document A valid photographic Australian driver’s licence or or immigration papers issued by the Department learner’s permit will satisfy the POI requirements. of Immigration and Multicultural and Indigenous People without a driver’s licence will need to provide Affairs, and local government and ethnic affairs POI documents. documents issued by a passport office; POI documents Western Australian Firearm Licence; To satisfy these POI requirements, you must provide birth certificate, or an extract of the birth certificate either: (must be a certified copy from the issuing body); one full POI document; or consular photo identity card issued by the one primary plus one secondary POI document. Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade; You must provide the original documents or certified Certificate of Aboriginality issued by an copies. organisation (for example, Land Council) At least one document must show your signature. recognised by the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Commission; Acceptable full POI documents – no other proof photographic licence issued by an Australian driver required licensing authority (which can have expired within You can prove your identity with any one of the the last two years); following current full POI documents: security licence (which can have expired within the photographic driver’s licence or learner’s permit last two years); or issued within Australia; evidence of resident status issued by the Australian passport (not expired more than two Department of Immigration. years); Acceptable forms of secondary identification: document of identity issued by the passport office; current entitlement card issued by a Australian Defence Force photographic identity Commonwealth government department (for card; example, a Medicare card); Federal or Western Australian police officer current card or account card from a bank, building photographic identity card; society or credit union; Police Warrant Card; passbook or account statement from a bank, Western Australian Photo Card issued by DoT; building society or credit union (not more than 12 Marine Certificate of Competency carrying a months old); photograph of the holder; or telephone, gas or electricity account (not more Western Australian photograph (security) licence than 12 months old); issued by or cleared with the Western Australian water or local rate notice or land valuation notice Police Service. (not more than two years old); If you have changed your name, you must provide electoral card or other evidence of enrolment (not documentary evidence that clearly shows the link more than two years old); between your birth name and your current name. armed services discharge papers (not more than If you cannot provide full POI documents you must two years old); provide one primary AND one secondary POI document. certificate or statement of accomplishment or enrolment from a recognised educational institution; or letter (not more than 12 months old) from the principal of a recognised educational institution. 8  Recreational Skipper’s Ticket Workbook Where can I be assessed? An application form for change of name and address and an RST replacement card is available on DoT’s A network of RST authorised providers and their website: www.transport.wa.gov.au/imarine/change-details-or- assessors has been established providing good replace-card.asp coverage throughout the State. A list of providers can be found on DoT’s website: Will it be recognised in other states? www.transport.wa.gov.au/imarine/how-to-get-an-rst.asp All states require that vessel drivers prove themselves How much will it cost? to a common set of standards, so each state’s The RST authorised assessor will charge a fee for qualification will be recognised in other states the assessment. This fee is not regulated by DoT so it same way a car driver’s licence is. When visiting other would be wise to shop around for the best deal. An states always check with the local marine authority to assessment fee may be required for each attempt. ensure you meet all of their requirements. All RST applications, including Skills Recognition are Interstate or overseas ticket valid for charged a recording fee by DoT which is paid to the three months assessor. If you hold an approved interstate or foreign skipper’s Must I attend a training course? ticket, recognised by DoT and listed on DoT’s website: www.transport.wa.gov.au/imarine/rst-skills-recognition-and- No, completing a training course is not compulsory. You can study on your own by using the RST equivalents.asp and you enter Western Australia, as a Workbook and practice your skills with the help of a visitor or with the intention of permanently residing supervising skipper. in the State, it will be taken that you hold a RST until three months have elapsed since you entered the A supervising skipper can be a parent, relative or State. friend, however they must hold a RST and be at least 18 years of age. After that period you must apply for an RST, under the Skills Recognition scheme, if you wish to continue Lost or damaged RST operating an RST vessel in Western Australia. Lost or damaged RST cards can be replaced by submitting an Application for a Replacement Card form and if applicable paying the application fee. Authorised Assessors are located throughout the State 9 Department of Transport Rules and Regulations 11 Responsibilities and duty of care 11 Marine animals and habitat 14 Enforcement officers 11 Sewage 14 RST change of address or name 11 Pollution and the environment 15 Identifying the skipper 11 Vessel registration 16 Marine infringements and penalties 11 Diving regulations 17 Marine safety signs 11 Water skiing 19 Mooring areas 11 Personal water craft 23 Nuisance or damage 12 Self-test questions (answers on page 118) 25 General speed limit restrictions 12 Obstruction of navigation aids, channels and leads 12 Accident or incident reporting 12 Assisting people in distress 12 Aquatic events 12 Alcohol and drugs 13 Safety on board 13 Right of way at jetties 13 Fremantle bridges 14 A mooring control area 10  Recreational Skipper’s Ticket Workbook Rules and Regulations WA’s waters keep getting busier, and a great range of activities share the limited space. To ensure the safety of all boaters, there are rules and regulations. At the end of this section, skippers will have a good knowledge of the specific rules and regulations that apply within the navigable waters of Western Australia. Responsibilities and duty of care Mooring areas It does not matter whether you are the master of a There are many sheltered places in Western Australia large ship or skipper of your own trailer boat – you where vessel owners can moor their vessel however, are responsible for the safety of your vessel, crew and you need to seek authorisation from DoT before you passengers; you must not endanger any other vessel; can lay a mooring in any navigable water. and you must be ready to assist others who need Moorings within Mooring Control Areas, (for example, help. Rottnest Island and the Swan and Canning rivers) must be installed and maintained to a specified standard. Enforcement officers You must have approval from DoT or the local authority In WA, DoT, Fisheries, Water Police and other to use a mooring within a Mooring Control Area. government agencies administer the marine acts and regulations that apply to recreational vessels and Only one vessel at a time is permitted on a mooring, boaters. They regularly check vessels for registration and the vessel must be no larger than the mooring was and safety gear, as well as monitoring the behaviour designed or approved for. of water users. For more information about moorings visit our website:www.transport.wa.gov.au/imarine/moorings-and-pens.asp RST change of address or name The holder of an RST must notify DoT within 21 days of a change of name or address. The form can be downloaded from DoT’s website: www.transport.wa.gov. au/imarine/change-details-or-replace-card.asp Identifying the skipper You must carry your RST and produce it for inspection when requested to by a WA Marine Officer, a member of the Police or other authorised officers. Marine infringements and penalties There are a variety of penalties that can be imposed on a skipper who commits a marine offence. This may include fines, imprisonment and the suspension or cancellation of their RST. Marine safety signs It is the responsibility of the skipper to know the rules for the area they are operating in. Information on gazetted (special use areas) can be found on marine safety signage, charts and boating guides. At the launching ramps near ski areas there are also signs explaining the rules for that particular area, such as hours of operation, direction of the ski circuit, etc. Areas subject to gazetted speed limits often have signs depicting the maximum speed limit for the area. Make yourself familiar with these requirements. Moorings on the Swan River 11 Department of Transport Nuisance or damage Accident or incident reporting You are not allowed to travel at a speed or in a way When an accident results in serious injury or death, that causes a nuisance or damage to people or other or the vessel has been damaged enough to make it vessels, or causes damage or erosion to the shore or unseaworthy or unsafe, the owner or skipper must property. report full particulars of the incident to DoT within 72 hours. General speed limit restrictions You can pick up a Marine Incident Report form from Without the approval of DoT you may not drive a DoT’s offices, download it from our website: motor boat at over 8 knots: www.transport.wa.gov.au/imarine/what-to-do-in-an-emergency.asp or phone 13 11 56 for one to be sent to you. through an arch of a bridge (unless water skiing is specifically permitted for a bridge); Assisting people in distress in or through a mooring area; All skippers have a legal obligation to assist people in in any water having a depth of less than 3 metres; distress unless: within 15 metres of a vessel underway; and they are unable to – perhaps the call for assistance within 50 metres of: was from too far away; (i) a moored vessel; assistance is not required – marine rescue has (ii) a person in the water; taken over; or (iii) a jetty or wharf; or the circumstances make it too dangerous. (iv) a river bank or low water mark. If an accident occurs nearby, you must assist where possible, provided it does not seriously endanger you Obstruction of navigation aids, channels or your passengers. and leads Crab nets, cray pots, fishing nets, marker buoys – or Aquatic events any other buoyed objects – are not allowed in any An aquatic event is any form of on-water race or channel, fairway or passage without the permission of display which may affect the normal navigation of DoT. Anchoring or mooring is also prohibited in these vessels on a waterway. You will need to apply for areas unless you are in distress. approval from DoT for most aquatic events. The You must not secure a vessel to a beacon or other application process allows the event to be assessed navigation aid. to ensure that all waterway users and legislative requirements are taken into consideration. Information on aquatic events is available at: www.transport.wa.gov.au/ imarine/aquatic-events.asp Tying to navigation aids is prohibited 12  Recreational Skipper’s Ticket Workbook Alcohol and drugs Right of way at jetties Whether you are going fishing, skiing, diving or Approaching from different directions just cruising, when you mix alcohol and drugs with When two motor boats approach the same boating the consequences can be fatal. public jetty from different directions under such On the water, the effects of alcohol and drugs are circumstances that if they proceed on their courses magnified and negatively impact the judgement and a dangerous situation is likely to arise, the motor boat skills of the skipper and passengers. heading down river (B) shall give way to the motor boat heading up river (A). WA marine laws prescribe limits for blood alcohol content (BAC) and illicit drug presence. Skippers navigating a vessel are subject to the same alcohol and drug limits and penalties as those in place for WA Down River drivers. The BAC limit is 0.05 and graduated penalties for being above this limit will align with road laws in A B WA, including 0.05, 0.08 and 0.15. The illicit drugs captured by these laws will align to the Road Traffic Act 1974 and the Road Traffic (Drug Driving) Regulations 2007 and include: Cannabis; B shall give way to A Methamphetamine; and Approaching from the same direction MDMA. When two motor boats approach the same public jetty DoT marine inspectors and WA Police have the in the same direction under circumstances that if they authority to test skippers suspected of being under proceed on their course a dangerous situation is likely the influence of alcohol or drugs even if the vessel to arise, the motor boat on the outer course (B) shall is not operational and secured, either at a jetty, to a give way to the motor boat on the inner course (A). mooring or on anchor. There is mandatory alcohol and drug testing after boating incidents which result in serious injury or B death and if the skipper can’t be identified, all those on board the vessel at the time of the incident could be tested. A Failure to comply with a requirement associated with an alcohol or drug test can result in significant penalties above and beyond those that would have applied for an alcohol or drug offence. Safety on board B shall give way to A Once a vessel is underway, everybody on board the vessel must keep all parts of their body within the Leaving at the same time limits of the hull. When two or more boats are scheduled to leave the same or adjoining jetties or berths at the same time, the vessel first under way shall have the right of way and the other vessel or vessels shall remain stationary until the vessel first under way is well clear. Keep all parts of the body within the limits of the hull 13 Department of Transport Fremantle bridges Sewage Access to the ocean for many thousands of The discharge of sewage from vessels, especially metropolitan boaters is through the Fremantle at popular destinations, reduces water quality, bridges, the narrowest part of the river and the point creates a human health risk and is universally loathed where the tidal streams flow most strongly. aesthetically. Ferries, charter boats, yachts, motor boats and As the number of large recreational vessels and dinghies merge and have to share the available water. commercial vessels in Western Australian waters Ferries, with their steering less effective at low speed, increases, it is becoming more and more important need plenty of room. Most people realise this and to control the discharge of sewage into the marine stay well clear, but many do not realise the special environment. problems of yachts. Marine pollution due to sewage and sullage is All but the smallest yachts have to lower their masts regulated at the international, national and state levels. to pass under the two downstream bridges, and this makes them vulnerable in two ways. With the How does it enter the marine environment? compensating weight of the mast now at deck level, Treated and untreated sewage can be discharged the keel has a stronger effect and makes the vessel’s from vessels under normal operating conditions. rolling motion more violent. If you can, avoid passing Accidental discharges could also come from vessels a yacht near the bridges, stay well clear and reduce and land-based sources. your wake. Sewage treatment plants may also make controlled Marine animals and habitat discharges into the water. Anchoring What impact does it have? An act of vandalism you may never realise you Sewage can have varying effects on the marine are committing is damage to the seabed when environment, depending on habitat types and anchoring. Reefs and sea grass beds are very locations. Some may be able to absorb more important to sea life, and you should avoid anchoring sewage, but others could be significantly impacted. on them. You can almost always find a patch of sand among them that your anchor will not hurt. If you have Large quantities of nutrient-rich sewage may no choice but to anchor on reef, use a specialised encourage algal blooms, which deplete the oxygen reef anchor. supply, killing larger marine life. Note: There may be anchoring prohibited rules in Sewage could also introduce bacteria that cause parts of marine parks. disease for humans who come into contact with it, or who eat seafood from an affected area. Disturbance of wildlife You should not try to get close to sea lions, whales, What you can do dolphins and whale sharks – they can become You can reduce the amount of sewage being released distressed, especially if they have babies with them. into the water by: using shore facilities when in harbour, rather than Noise, wake and wash your vessel’s toilet; or Another form of pollution is the nuisance you can cause simply by operating your vessel thoughtlessly. installing an approved sewage treatment system Wake and wash can cause damage to vessels in your vessel if possible (please contact the on moorings and in pens, and injury to people on Department of Health for more information). board them. Keep your speed low enough to cause Strategy negligible wash when passing near these areas – and also in the vicinity of wildlife. To limit the impact of sewage on our environment, the State Government has adopted a regulatory plan that Just like many near-shore residents, wildlife can also establishes three sewage discharge zones based on be upset by noise. For the sake of both people and the degree of risk to public health or the environment: wildlife limit the noise you have control over – music www.transport.wa.gov.au/imarine/marine-pollution.asp for instance – and ensure that your exhaust noise has not increased with the age of your motor. 14  Recreational Skipper’s Ticket Workbook Pollution and the environment Western Australia’s coastal environment is among Consider fitting high efficiency by-pass oil filters. the most spectacular in the world. With over 13,500 These decrease the frequency of oil changes. kilometres of salt marshes and temperate ocean, it If you have engine oil leaks, consider placing oil has a rich biodiversity of marine life that cannot be absorbent or water repellent material in the bilge. found anywhere else in the world, including several This is not expensive. species of corals, mangroves and sea grasses. The protection of the marine environment is the Refuelling responsibility of everyone. We must be conscious of Refuelling is the most common time for spillage of the pollution threats to our waterways and oceans fuel into the environment. The same procedure that and the serious effects that may result. guards against risk of fire during and after refuelling (detailed in the Emergency section, page 87) will also State and Commonwealth laws, based on help prevent pollution. international conventions, cover all kinds of marine pollution including rubbish, oil, plastics and sewage. In particular guard against overfilling by: Pollution is taken so seriously that the penalties can knowing how much fuel you need to take (allowing be up to $200,000 for an individual and $1,000,000 space in the tank for expansion) for companies. not leaving the filling nozzle unattended; and Rubbish listening for the sound of fuel blowing back from The pollution regulations relating to boating state that the tank breathers – you may need to slow the there is no dumping of: filling rate. Oil or noxious substances or plastic anywhere. Plastics include synthetic ropes and synthetic Reporting spills and illegal dumping fishing lines and nets. Under Western Australian law, the polluter must report spills of oil or noxious substances to DoT – and Floating rubbish within 25 nautical miles from the there are penalties for failing to do so. nearest land. The information needed is: Garbage including food wastes, paper products, when and where the incident occurred; rags, glass or metals within 12 nautical miles from the nearest land, or 3 nautical miles if the garbage name and registration number of the offending has been passed through an approved grinder. vessel; What you should do type and extent of pollution; and You need to plan. Small boats have to arrange to any other relevant information. store garbage, waste or oily bilge water and noxious For further information or to report an incident phone: substances on board until they can be discharged Oil Spill Response Coordination Unit (08) 9480 9924. responsibly when back in port. Larger vessels may operate far enough offshore to dispose of garbage and waste at sea, but no vessel can release waste oils, oily bilge or noxious substances anywhere at sea or in the inland waters of Western Australia. Report Marine Bilges Check your bilges and keep them clean and dry. If an automatic bilge pump puts an oil and bilge Oil Spills! water mix in the water it will land you in trouble. 24 hr Reporting Number (08) 9480 9924 Inspect fuel lines and seals regularly and ensure that oil leaks are dealt with quickly. Fit a drip tray under the engines with drainage to a holding tank for disposal ashore. 15 Department of Transport Vessel registration Placement of registration label The registration label sticker must be fixed on the port Vessels that must be registered side of the vessel, adjacent to the registration number. Vessels that are or may be propelled by mechanical power, this includes electric motors and boats which Placement of registration numbers are ordinarily propelled by sail, must be registered with Numbers must be fixed as follows: DoT and will be subject to an annual registration fee. Motor boats – Midships on both sides of the hull Registration fees contribute towards launching ramps, where they are clearly visible – not under the flare of jetties, navigation aids, safety patrols and boating the bow – 150mm high x 25mm wide. safety education. Vessels currently registered in another state receive a three month period of grace after entering Western Australia. Vessels entering from the Northern Territory have 30 days. After this period of grace the vessel must be registered with DoT in this State. Exemptions from registration The following recreational vessels, that are not fitted or cannot be fitted with mechanical power, do not have to be registered: Placement of motor boat registration numbers yachts; Yachts – On the side of the hull immediately forward of the transom – 50mm high x 12mm wide. canoes, surf skis and other craft without motors; and tenders (see below). Tenders A tender vessel does not have to be registered provided it: is no more than 3.1 metres in length; has a motor no bigger than 5 hp (3.73 kW); and is used only as a lifeboat or for ship to shore Placement of yacht registration numbers transport from a parent vessel – it cannot be used in isolation from the parent vessel. Tenders – Must have its parent vessel’s registration A tender must also carry the mandatory safety number displayed on each side of the vessel forward of the transom – 50mm high x 12mm wide. equipment as per their area of operation. Change of ownership details The owner of a registered vessel must notify DoT within 15 days of any changes to the registered details of the vessel or the address of the owner. The seller must notify DoT within seven days of selling the vessel. The buyer must notify DoT within 15 days of buying the vessel. Placement of tender registration numbers Registration label A registration label will be forwarded on payment of PWC – On both sides of the hull where they are the annual registration fee. The registration label is clearly visible – 100mm high x 25mm wide. colour coded and contains the month and year of expiry. 16  Recreational Skipper’s Ticket Workbook Diving regulations It’s recommended divers always listen out for other craft before surfacing, and surface as near to their Regulations are in place to ensure the safety of divers. vessel as possible. As the State’s marine authority the DoT recommends While it is not law it is highly recommended that divers and skippers be extra cautious and adopt snorkellers display a dive flag particularly when a number of recommended practices to further snorkelling offshore or in areas of high boating traffic. enhance safety and preserve lives on the water. Diving lights Diving flag By night the diver’s vessel, as well as appropriate A vessel with divers operating from it must carry the lights such as an anchor light, must show three all- appropriate day or night signals. round lights in a vertical line: the top and bottom lights The daytime signal for divers is the International red and the middle light white. Code Flag “A”. This is a swallowed tailed flag having People engaged in night diving without a vessel must two vertical halves; the inner being white and the display a yellow or orange flashing light that can be outer blue. It must be at least 750 millimetres long seen from a minimum distance of 200 metres. and 600 millimetres wide. Divers operating without a vessel, for example from a jetty, must also display the Vessels to keep clear International Code Flag “A” of the same minimum size. All vessels must keep at least 50 metres clear of You can choose to show this flag from a buoy, in vessels, buoys or areas showing diving signals. which case the minimum size must be 300 millimetres in length and 200 millimetres in width. Where it is not possible to keep 50 metres clear or when in the vicinity of a diving signal, all vessels must A dive flag must be clearly visible to all vessels proceed at safe speed and with due caution until well operating in the vicinity. clear and keep a good look-out for persons in the As a dive flag is only a visual indication to other water. vessels and will not automatically prevent other craft If you have no valid reason to be within 50 metres of a from venturing into a dive area. dive signal then don’t be. Please use common sense and courtesy. Code flag “A” indicates there are divers in the area 17 Department of Transport Unattended vessels Before diving: The practice of divers leaving vessels unattended can Check the weather as conditions on the surface be very dangerous. DoT strongly recommends that a can deteriorate rapidly during the dive. responsible person stays on board at all times to raise the alarm if the diver is overdue or to attend to the Inform a friend of your dive site and your vessel should it start to drift. estimated time of return. Establish entry and exit points and techniques. In an emergency A 24 hour, 7 days a week service operated from the Choose a course to follow, taking currents and Water Police Coordination Centre in North Fremantle other factors into consideration. monitors marine radio channels 27MHz channel 88 Consult dive tables, agree on a maximum time and (27MHz will be phased out over a five year period), depth limit. VHF channels 16 or phone 000. Establish and review communication procedures Fiona Stanley Hospital at Murdoch Drive, Murdoch, and revise hand signals. coordinates the treatment of all cases of civilian diving accidents. Call (08) 6152 2222 and immediately state Agree on an air pressure for returning to the that the call is about a diving related accident. surface, usually 50 bar. Decide what to do if separated. Discuss what to do in an emergency. Dive flag must be visible for 360 0 18  Recreational Skipper’s Ticket Workbook Water skiing Before commencing skiing, it is recommended that skippers brief each participant on their roles Water skiing involves being towed over water, at a and responsibilities, hand signals and the various speed of 8 knots or more, by a vessel, supported procedures associated with water skiing, such as by a ski, or skis, an aquaplane, other apparatus or recovering and reboarding of a downed skier. feet. This includes being towed on a wakeboard, Care should also be taken to brief participants on the kneeboard or inflatable device. location and use of safety equipment on-board the Water skiing is a high risk activity and as the skipper of vessel and measures to avoid propeller strike. a vessel towing a water skier, it’s your responsibility to When underway: ensure the safety of your crew and the skier at all times. To reduce the risks associated with water skiing it is follow the required direction of travel and remain important that skippers familiarise themselves with: inside the ski area; the rules and regulations; be alert and maintain a good lookout for other vessels, objects and downed skiers; and the layout and boundaries of the ski area; be courteous of other users and keep clear of the direction of ski; slower moving vessels, paddle craft and sail craft. the hours of operation; With a bit of planning, courtesy and attention to the location of the take-off and landing areas; and safety, all users of water ski areas will be able to enjoy their day out. any shallow water areas or other hazards. This information is available in local boating guides and charts available from DoT or on signage at boat ramps. It requires at least three people to go skiing, the driver, the observer and the skier 19 Department of Transport The ski boat crew Congestion To go skiing there must be a minimum of two in the If you think that the ski area is too congested to ski ski boat, the skipper and at least one observer. The safely, consider an alternative gazetted area or defer observer faces towards the skier at all times and your skiing activities until it becomes less congested. communicates to the skipper while the skipper faces forward to maintain a proper lookout and concentrates Hand signals on the vessel’s course within the ski area. Hand signals should be used to communicate the The skipper intentions of the skier and of the driver to each other To be the driver of a vessel, with a motor over 6 hp and to other water users. (4.5 kW), engaged in water skiing you: Waiting to take-off with a skier must hold an RST, or be supervised by an RST Driver’s signal holder who is at least 18 years of age; and When waiting for a safe must be at least 17 years of age. opportunity to take-off with a skier, the skipper should signal The skipper is responsible for abiding by the rules to vessels dropping off a skier and regulations and for the safety of the: that they do not intend to move vessel; until it’s clear. This is indicated by holding both hands in the air crew; and showing that they are not on the skiers. boat’s controls. The observer Skier down To be the observer you: Observer’s signal must be at least 14 years of age; The observer only should hold one arm straight up in the air to have the prime responsibility of observing the indicate to other vessels that the towed skiers and reporting all matters affecting skier has fallen off and is in the them to the skipper; water. alert the skipper about other vessels approaching Vessels seeing this signal should from behind; and keep a good lookout for the skier in the water. should be familiar with the standard hand signals. Skier down and is OK The skier Skier’s signal Skiers can be any age; however, it is recommended A fallen skier who has sustained they wear an approved Level 50 or 50s lifejacket while no injuries should indicate that skiing. they are OK by raising both arms Areas for water skiing into the air. You can only water ski in a gazetted ski area and only If the observer does not see this during the permitted times. Ski areas are marked by signal, they should inform the signs on the foreshore and at each public boat ramp skipper to return to the skier as adjacent to the ski area. Ski area boundaries may quickly and safely as possible. also be marked in the water by buoys. The signs also Dropping off a skier provide information on the direction (clockwise or Driver’s signal anti-clockwise) you must follow, times when skiing is permitted, and where the take-off and landing areas When returning a skier to the are located. Consult these signs before skiing. shore the driver should indicate this by the raising and lowering DoT produces regional boating guides and charts for of a hand above the head. most of the popular boating destinations throughout the State. These guides provide useful local information including water ski and speed restricted boating areas. The guides are available from DoT offices or visit www.transport.wa.gov.au/imarine/boating- guides-and-activities.asp 20  Recreational Skipper’s Ticket Workbook Rules and regulations Ski line to be retrieved All the rules and regulations that apply to motor boats After landing a water skier, skippers should continue to also apply to vessels that are towing skiers. The at least 60 metres from the point of dropping the skier, prevention of collision rules still apply in ski areas, this stop and have the ski line retrieved. If coming to shore, means a ski boat has no priority over a vessel that is the skipper must reduce boat speed to less than 8 passing through the area. knots and not interfere with, or obstruct, any other Skipper needs to be seated vessel towing a water skier. The skipper should not sit on the gunwale (side) or Ski ropes on the back of the driving seat while driving a speed A skipper must not permit a ski rope to trail within 30 boat. metres of the shore of any area set aside for water Distance behind a skier skiing, unless the rope handles are held by a skier. You must not drive any closer than 50 metres directly Towing trick skiers behind a skier or any other vessel. Trick water skiing is being towed over the water by a Distance from shore vessel, without being continuously supported on the surface. Skippers must not drive a speed boat towing Stay at least 50 metres (or as gazetted) from shore a skier engaged in trick skiing within 100 metres of except when landing or taking off in a gazetted take- any landing or take-off area. off and landing area. Slalom skiing or ski-jumping Towing skiers near landing or take-off areas Navigable waters should not be used for the purpose You must not drive a motor boat towing water skiers of: within 30 metres of the shore or any landing or take- off area, except for when you are landing or taking off. a slalom course or ski-jump unless there is prior approval in writing from DoT; Right of way when landing a water skier a slalom course or ski-jump unless a safety The skipper of a vessel about to take-off a skier must give way to a ski boat approaching to land a skier. zone surrounding the slalom course or ski-jump is defined by red marker buoys, each having a Approaching shore where a skier has landed diameter of 200 millimetres and fitted with a 300 A skipper landing a skier must not approach within 25 millimetre high orange triangular pennant; metres of the shore where the skier has landed. slalom skiing unless the person is wearing a Level Water skis to be retrieved 50 or 50s lifejacket; and Immediately after losing or intentionally discarding a slalom skiing or ski-jumping unless the person is ski, the skier should ensure it is retrieved. permitted to use the slalom course or ski-jump by approval from DoT. Skiing is only permitted in gazetted ski areas 21 Department of Transport A lifejacket must be worn while operating a PWC 22  Recreational Skipper’s Ticket Workbook Personal water craft Personal water craft (PWC) – often called jet skis – are craft propelled by an inboard motor powering a water jet pump. The operator sits, stands or kneels on the vessel. PWCs and similar craft are motor boats as far as the rules are concerned. This means there are rules for the age of skippers, safety equipment, areas where they can operate and the distance offshore they can travel. Safety equipment Operating beyond 400 metres from the shore in unprotected waters Operating within protected waters or up to 400 metres from the shore in unprotected waters Required Required - RST; - RST; - lifejackets (one to be worn and suitable for each person on board, minimum level 50s); - lifejackets (one to be worn and suitable for each person on board, minimum level 50s (see - in date GPS enabled EPIRB or PLB; lifejackets page 51)). - in date flares or electronic visual distress signal Recommended (EVDS (see visual distress signals on page 54)). - GPS enabled EPIRB or PLB (see EPIRB and Recommended PLBs on page 57); - a marine radio (until you travel beyond 4 nautical - in date flares or EVDS; and miles from shore in unprotected waters when it becomes a requirement for a HF or VHF - a marine radio. marine radio to be carried (see radios page 60)). 23 Department of Transport PWC registration PWC prohibited areas PWCs, as with all vessels fitted with a motor, must be PWCs are prohibited in the Swan River upstream of registered with the DoT and are subject to an annual the Windan Bridge, upstream of Salter Point in the registration fee. Canning River and in all Swan River Marine Parks. Placement of registration numbers and label. PWCs are permitted in all Swan and Canning Riverpark water ski areas except for the Belmont ski Numbers must be fixed as follows: area. on both sides of the hull where they are clearly PWCs are permitted to operate in most of the large visible (Note – not under the flare of the bow – offshore water ski areas such as Warnbro, Cockburn 100mm high x 25mm wide); and Sound and Geographe Bay. the numbers should be black numerals on a white For more information pick up a Local Boating Guide background; and check the signage at launching ramps. The registration label sticker must be fixed on the port side of the vessel, adjacent to the registration number. Registration numbers Registration label AB123 1 Department of Transport Boat Registration Issued 2015 WESTERN AUSTRALIA Expires 2016 Freestyling, wake and wave jumping Freestyling is operating a PWC in a way that the skipper of another vessel would be unable to predict its course or speed in order to avoid a collision, this includes doughnuts, 180 degree turns, hops and jumps etc. Wave and wake jumping is driving a PWC over a wave or swell with the aim of becoming airborne. The wave or the swell may be formed naturally or by the passage of a vessel. Freestyling and wake jumping is prohibited: within any speed restricted area; within 30 metres of another PWC; and within 50 metres of another vessel or person in the water. Tow-in surfing Freestyling is prohibited on the Swan and Canning Tow-in surfing, is a technique by which a person Riverpark except in the gazetted freestyle area operating a PWC tows a surfer onto a breaking wave. downstream of the Narrows Bridge. PWC skippers need to familiarise themselves with the regulations to conduct tow-in surfing in Western Australia to ensure they abide by the law. For further information regarding tow-in surfing, please contact your nearest DoT office or visit our website: www.transport.wa.gov.au/imarine/tow-in-surfing.asp 24  Recreational Skipper’s Ticket Workbook Rules and Regulations self-test questions (answers on page 118) Q1. When operating a motor boat near a person Q6. What does this flag (pictured) indicate? in the water you must: A. Not exceed 4 knots within 100 metres. B. Not exceed 6 knots within 100 metres. C. Not exceed 8 knots within 50 metres. D. Not exceed 10 knots within 50 metres. A. Dangerous cargo being carried on board Q2. What is the maximum speed limit within 15 a vessel – keep well away. metres of a vessel underway? B. Diver below – keep 50 metres clear or A. 4 knots. travel at the slowest possible speed and B. 7 knots. keep a good lookout for people in the water. C. 8 knots. C. Shallow water – proceed with caution in D. 10 knots. the vicinity. Q3. What is the maximum speed limit within a D. Vessel aground keep clear. mooring area or boat haven? Q7. A Recreational Skipper’s Ticket entitles you A. 4 knots. to drive: B. 7 knots. A. Vessels under 8 metres in length only. C. 8 knots. B. All recreational vessels. D. 10 knots. C. All commercial vessels. Q4. What types of boating accidents must be D. All recreational and commercial vessels. reported? Q8. What is the maximum speed limit within 50 A. All accidents. metres of a jetty, wharf or the shore? B. All accidents involving motor boats or A. 8 knots. water skiers. B. 6 knots. C. Accidents resulting in serious injury or death, or if the vessel has C. 10 knots. been damaged enough to make it D. No speed limit applies. unseaworthy or unsafe. Q9. A holder of an RST under the age of 16 is D. Accidents involving loss of life, personal restricted to operating a vessel: injury or property damage over $1000. A. That is less than 4 metres in length. Q5. What vessels are required to be registered? B. With a motor under 6 hp. A. Vessels fitted with an engine of 5 hp or more. C. During daylight hours and at a speed of less than 8 knots. B. Other than a tender, all recreational vessels that are fitted with, or can be D. All of the above. fitted with an engine. C. All recreational vessels over 3.1 metres fitted with an engine. D. None of the above. 25 Department of Transport Collision Avoidance 27 International regulations for preventing collisions at sea 27 Operating rules 28 Responsibility 27 General right of way 29 Lookout 27 Overtaking 29 Safe speed 27 Power to power 29 Assessing risk of collision 27 Restricted visibility 27 Sound signals 27 The rules of the road 28 Every skipper has a responsibility to avoid collisions 26  Recreational Skipper’s Ticket Workbook Collision Avoidance At the end of this section, skippers should have a working knowledge of the International Prevention of Collision at Sea Regulations, a thorough knowledge of the International Association of Lighthouse Authorities (IALA) system of buoyage and a good understanding of navigation lights. International regulations for preventing Assessing risk of collision collisions at sea Constantly assess all the vessels in the vicinity to see The regulations which apply on all waters in this State, if they are likely to come close. A useful technique is to also apply all over the world. These are the traffic laws see whether your line of sight (the bearing) to another of the sea, and every ship or vessel afloat has to obey vessel does not move ahead or drop back. If it is them. steady, you are on, or nearly on, a collision course. There is a lot of detail in the collision rules; the Any action you now take under the rules must be following summary covers the main principles. obvious to the other vessel, and result in passing well clear. Responsibility Restricted visibility Every skipper has a responsibility to avoid collisions. Even if the rules require another vessel to keep out of Situations such as fog or heavy rain can affect your way and it doesn’t, then you must be ready to visibility. Under conditions of restricted visibility you take action yourself to avoid collision. should: ensure you keep good lookout; Lookout turn your navigation lights on; Perhaps the most important rule of all is to keep a good lookout. The skipper is responsible to keep a proceed at a safe speed that suits the prevailing lookout with eyes and with all available means, at all circumstances and conditions; and times. be prepared to stop or manoeuvre to avoid Equipment such as radars, sounders and plotters collision. should be used if available especially in poor visibility and at night. Sound signals Sound signals are sometimes used by ships and Safe speed ferries to indicate an action they are about to take. The lookout rule links with the requirement that calls One short blast: I am altering course to starboard. for skippers to travel at a safe speed. A safe speed is a speed that allows for enough time to manoeuvre the Two short blasts: I am altering course to port. vessel in order to avoid a collision. Visibility, volume of Three short blasts: My engines are going astern. traffic, background lighting and the water depth are some of the factors that should be considered when Five short blasts: (officially) I am unsure of your determining a safe speed. intentions; (practically) you are not following the rules – get out of the way. 27 Department of Transport The rules of the road You must keep a good lookout at all times and be ready to give way to other vessels. If you must give way, do it in good time and make a move which will be obvious to the other vessels. The golden rule is “look to the right, give way to the right, turn to the right and stay to the right”. Operating rules Port Starboard If a motor boat approaches within If any vessel approaches within this this sector maintain your course and sector, give way. speed with caution. Note: This rule may not always apply if one or Note: Be prepared to make an alteration in both boats are sailboats. course or speed to avoid collision if the other vessel fails to do so. St a rb Por t o a rd 112.5 0 112.5 0 135 0 Stern Stern If any vessel approaches this sector, maintain your course and speed with caution. Note: Be prepared to make an alteration in course or speed to avoid collision if the other vessel fails to do so. Some Authorised Providers can supply a vessel if you don’t have one 28  Recreational Skipper’s Ticket Workbook General right of way Power to power In general, motor boats have to keep out of the way Crossing of sailing vessels and vessels that are hampered by If the other vessel is on your right (starboard) side it such tasks as dredging, cable laying and so on. has right of way and you must keep clear: you must Power gives way to sail. either turn right, slow down to let the other vessel pass ahead of you – or do both. Sailing boat If the other vessel is on your left (port) side you have right of way and should hold your course and speed, however, if you think the other vessel is leaving it too late, you have to take action yourself. The “right rule” still applies: if you alter course, alter to the right Motor boat (starboard). Or you can slow down, or do both. A gives way to B. Overtaking B This rule overrides all the other give-way rules. The B overtaking vessel (including sailing boats) must keep out of the way of the vessel being overtaken. A You can pass on either side of the vessel, but keep A well clear – the other skipper may not have seen you. If you are being overtaken, hold your course and speed until the other vessel is past and well clear. Meeting head on A keeps clear of B. Both vessels must alter course to the right (starboard). If the other vessel turns the wrong way, you should turn even more right, slow down, or stop A B your vessel. Both vessels alter course to starboard. A B 29  Department of Transport Navigation Lights 31 Extra care at night 31 Lights required for Night vision 31 motor boats underway 32 Lights must not be obscured 31 Lights required for sailing boats underway 33 Types of lights 31 Optional lights 34 Placement of lights 31 Vessels at anchor 34 Range of visibility of lights 32 Navigation lights are required from sunset to sunrise 30  Recreational Skipper’s Ticket Workbook Navigation Lights Navigating at night requires special care and attention. Vessels that operate from sunset to sunrise, whether at anchor or underway, must carry and exhibit the correct lights. A vessel is underway when not anchored, moored to the shore or aground. Navigation lights must also be displayed during daylight hours in periods of restricted visibility. All vessels must comply with the regulations concerning lighting. Before using a vessel ensure that the navigation lights are in working order. Extra care at night Types of lights Many navigation aids are unlit, and there are many It is crucial the lights on your vessel be placed other potential hazards, so keep your speed down. and displayed appropriate to the size and class of Some areas may have special speed limits after dark; your vessel. These lights tell other vessel operators for example, the open speed limit areas of the Swan what your vessel is doing – whether it is at anchor, and Canning rivers are reduced to 10 knots between under sail or motoring. This guide will assist you in sunset and sunrise. understanding the correct use of navigation lights on your vessel. Night vision Rhodopsin (the molecule found in the rods in our Placement of lights eyes that allows for night vision) is extremely sensitive Sidelights to light. Rhodopsin will immediately bleach when The port (red) and starboard (green) lights shine for exposed to a bright white light and night vision will be 112.50 either side of the centre line (bow to stern) of lost. It takes time for night vision to recover, about 10 the vessel. minutes for 10 per cent recovery, 30–45 minutes for r Steaming Light 80 per cent recovery and the rest may take hours. ad o –2 the 25 o as Many people use red light to help preserve night M Star o b oa vision. Placing red filters over cabin lights will allow 2.5 rd 11 you to operate at greater light intensity level than Sid – ht elig Port Sidelig under a dimmed white light without disrupting your night vision. ht – 112.5 Lights must not be obscured o Check that your vessel’s structure does not obscure the navigation lights. The masthead light on many Ste o rn L ight – 135 trailer boats is on an extending pole at the stern, and it does not lift high enough to be visible over the cabin Masthead and stern lights top or windscreen. This is dangerous as it may cause The white masthead light shines forward in an arc confusion to other vessels and is unacceptable. of 2250. The white stern light shines aft and covers an arc of 1350. The combination of these lights creates a 3600 arc of white light. In a vessel of less than 12 metres, these two separate lights can be combined into a single all-round white light. The masthead, stern or all-round white light must be fitted (if practical) on the centre line of the vessel. Anchor lights An anchor light must be placed where it can best be seen, white in colour and have an arc of visibility of 3600. If practical, the anchor light should be placed on the centre line of the vessel. Navigation lights must not be obscured. 31 Department of Transport Range of visibility of lights Lights required for motor boats underway Minimum visibility for length of vessel Vessel length in metres = m Vessels under 7 metres and less than 7 knots Distance in nautical miles = n mile Motor boats of less than 7 metres in length, with a maximum speed of 7 knots or less shall exhibit a Vessel length visible all-round white light and, if possible, separate or combined sidelights. 12 m up to 50 m and < 12 m 50 m over Light Minimum range of visibility Masthead lights 2 n mile 5 n mile* 6 n mile figure i Sidelight 1 n mile 2 n mile 3 n mile Bow Starboard Sternlight 2 n mile 2 n mile 3 n mile Towing light 2 n mile 2 n mile 3 n mile Stern Port All-round lights (white, red, yellow, 2 n mile 2 n mile 3 n mile green) Vessels under 12 metres * Where the length of a vessel is 12 metres or more, Motor boats of less than 12 metres in length shall but less than 20 metres, the masthead light visibility is exhibit: 3 nautical miles. separate or combined sidelights and an all-round white light; or separate or combined sidelights, a masthead light and a stern light (figure iii). Masthead or an white all-round light shall be carried at least one metre above the sidelights. figure ii Bow Starboard Stern Port Navigation lights must not be obscured 32  Recreational Skipper’s Ticket Workbook Vessels 12 metres to 20 metres Lights required for Motor boats of more than 12 metres but less than sailing boats underway 20 metres in length shall exhibit: Sailing boats while underway (being motor driven) a masthead light, separate sidelights and stern shall exhibit navigation lights applicable to motor light; or boats. a masthead light, combined sidelights and stern Sailing boats under 7 metres light. Sailing boats of less than 7 metres in length or boats being rowed shall exhibit the lights required for sailing boats over 7 metres in length (figure v, vi). If not, they shall have ready for use an electric torch or lighted lantern showing a white light, which shall be exhibited in sufficient time to prevent a collision. figure iii Bow Starboard Stern Port figure iv The masthead light shall be carried at least Bow Stern Starboard Port 2.5 metres above the gunwale. Combined sidelights shall be carried at least one metre below the masthead light. Check your navigation lights are working before sunset