Speed Limits, Distance-Off Rules and No-Wash Zones
Speed and distance
Speed limits and distance-off rules protect people, other craft and the shoreline. The general principle is that you must not travel at a speed that creates an unsafe wash or endangers others. In NSW, the default speed limit near people and shorelines is generally 4 knots within 30 metres of a person in the water, a moored or anchored vessel, or the shore. Other limits apply in designated areas such as 4 knots or 6 knots zones, and local signage controls. Always read the signs and notices for the waterway you are using.
No-wash zones
A no-wash zone means you must travel at a speed that produces no wash, which is usually just enough to steer. It is not a licence to travel at the speed limit. Questions often test whether a no-wash zone allows 4 knots; the answer is that you must reduce speed so no wash is created.
Traps
Candidates confuse metres with feet, or knots with km/h. They also assume a distance-off rule does not apply to a PWC because it draws little water. It does. Another trap is assuming a speed limit sign applies only to larger boats.
Worked example
A rider wants to pass close to a swimmer to show off. Within 30 metres of a person in the water the speed must be reduced to 4 knots or less, and the rider should give the swimmer a wide berth.