NSW Boat Licence Knowledge Test flashcards

35 cards. Read the term and the definition here. The deck at the top of this page is optional.

Skipper responsibility

The person in command of a vessel is responsible for the safety of everyone on board and for compliance with NSW boating rules, regardless of who owns the vessel.

Starboard side rule

In channels and rivers, keep to the right (starboard) side where practicable so that passing traffic is predictable and head-on situations are reduced.

Wash and wake control

A vessel's wake must not unreasonably affect other vessels, swimmers, shorelines or moored boats; reduce speed in anchorages and posted no-wash zones.

Loading a vessel

Distribute passengers and gear evenly and keep weight low so the vessel floats level and remains stable, especially during turns and in choppy water.

Pre-departure checks

Before leaving, check weather forecasts, fuel, battery charge, bungs or plugs, and confirm all required safety equipment is on board and serviceable.

Sound signal: one blast

One short blast indicates the vessel is altering course to starboard (right), used to signal intentions to other vessels in sight.

Sound signal: two blasts

Two short blasts indicate the vessel is altering course to port (left), signalling its intended direction to nearby vessels.

Sound signal: three blasts

Three short blasts indicate the vessel is operating astern propulsion, warning others that it is moving backwards or slowing to reverse.

Anchor light requirement

A vessel at anchor at night must display an all-round white light visible from all directions so other vessels can see and avoid it.

PWC operating rules

Personal watercraft must be operated at a safe speed, kept clear of swimmers, and must observe distance and no-wake restrictions near shore and other vessels.

Give-way vessel

The give-way vessel must keep out of the way of the other vessel, taking early and substantial action to avoid collision.

Stand-on vessel

The stand-on vessel should hold its course and speed, but may take action if the give-way vessel does not act and collision risk develops.

Head-on meeting

When two power-driven vessels meet head-on, both alter course to starboard and pass port-to-port to avoid collision.

Crossing rule

When two power-driven vessels cross, the vessel with the other on its starboard (right) side is the give-way vessel and must keep clear.

Power versus sail

A power-driven vessel normally gives way to a sailing vessel under way, unless the power vessel is overtaking or is constrained by its work.

Overtaking vessel rule

The overtaking vessel, approaching from more than 22.5 degrees abaft the beam, must always keep clear of the vessel being overtaken, regardless of propulsion.

Two sailing vessels

When two sailing vessels meet, the one on port tack gives way; if both are on the same tack, the windward vessel gives way to the leeward vessel.

Narrow channel rule

In a narrow channel, keep as close to the outer limit on your starboard side as is safe and avoid crossing if it impedes a larger vessel.

Risk of collision

If the bearing to another vessel stays roughly constant while the range decreases, a risk of collision exists and action must be taken early.

Restricted visibility

In fog or poor visibility, proceed at a safe speed, sound appropriate fog signals and post a proper lookout; radar alone does not replace a lookout.

Lifejacket wearing

Lifejackets must be serviceable and correctly fitted, and must be worn by all on board in times of heightened risk such as night, bar crossings or bad weather.

Safety equipment schedule

Required safety equipment depends on vessel type and operating area (enclosed, partially smooth or open waters); check the applicable schedule before each trip.

Fire extinguisher use

Extinguishers must be mounted, accessible, in date and matched to the fire risk; aim at the base of the fire and move upwind.

Man overboard response

Immediately reduce speed, keep the person in sight, throw flotation, manoeuvre back carefully and recover without putting others at risk.

Capsize or swamp

Account for all persons, stay with the vessel if it is safe to do so, and use distress signals or a marine radio to call for help.

MAYDAY call

MAYDAY signals grave and imminent danger and is transmitted on VHF Channel 16 or 27 MHz Channel 88 to request immediate assistance.

PAN PAN and SECURITE

PAN PAN signals urgency without immediate danger; SECURITE announces safety information such as hazards or navigational warnings to all vessels.

EPIRB and PLB

Emergency beacons must be registered with authorities and carried where required; test only as permitted and replace batteries before expiry.

Fire on board

Stop the vessel if safe, shut off fuel and electrical sources, aim the extinguisher at the base of the fire, and abandon only if it cannot be controlled.

Vessel registration threshold

In NSW, a vessel with an engine of 4 kW (about 5 hp) or more generally requires registration, and numbers must be displayed correctly on the hull.

Boat driving licence

Operating a registered recreational vessel with an engine of 4 kW or more requires the appropriate NSW boat driving licence; PWC use needs a PWC endorsement.

Alcohol and drug rules

Alcohol and drug limits apply on the water; skippers must not operate a vessel while affected, and random testing can occur.

Speed limits

Posted speed limits (such as 4 knots near shore, moorings and swimmers) apply in specified areas, and skippers must also maintain a safe speed for conditions.

Marine pollution rules

Discharging oil, garbage or sewage into NSW waters is prohibited in contravention of the regulations; use pump-out facilities where provided.

Reporting marine incidents

Marine incidents involving injury, death, collision or serious damage must be reported to the relevant authority as required by NSW law.