Coastguard NZ Day Skipper study plan

Define the skipper's legal responsibilities and the collision-prevention rules that apply in daylight coastal waters, listing at least 10 rules from memory with their practical meaning.

Identify the parts of a trailerable or small keelboat and label a blank diagram with 20 named components.

Explain the meaning and correct use of the cardinal and lateral buoyage systems used in New Zealand waters.

Demonstrate how to read a local chart legend, including depths, drying heights, symbols, and chart datum, by answering 15 self-written questions correctly.

Interpret tide tables for two local standard ports and calculate high and low water times and heights for a secondary port using the differences given.

Compute a simple tidal height at an intermediate time using the rule-of-twelfths method and check it against a plotted tide curve.

Describe the causes of tides, springs and neaps, and the effect of wind and atmospheric pressure on actual water level.

Convert between magnetic and true bearings using the local variation and explain when deviation matters.

Plan a short daylight passage of 8-12 nautical miles, listing waypoints, hazards, and alternate anchorages.

Measure distance and plot a course on a paper chart using dividers and parallel rules, achieving accuracy within 2 degrees and 0.2 nm.

Calculate speed, distance, and time for at least five scenarios and use them to estimate an ETA for a planned passage.

Apply a simple running fix and a transit to confirm position, and explain the limitations of each in daylight coastal pilotage.

Identify the main lights, shapes, and daymarks used to mark channels, hazards, and special areas on a chart and on the water.

Draft a pre-departure checklist covering weather, fuel, crew briefing, and float plan filing.

State the correct procedure for a distress alert on VHF channel 16, including MAYDAY, MAYDAY RELAY, and the information a rescue coordination centre needs.

Distinguish urgency (PAN PAN) from safety (SÉCURITÉ) calls and give one realistic example of each.

Describe the correct use of DSC, including MMSI registration, individual calls, and the distress button, and list the common operating mistakes to avoid.

Explain marine VHF channel allocations used by recreational craft in New Zealand, including channel 16, working channels, and local harbour channels.

Outline radio licensing, operator certificate requirements, and the limits on power and channels for recreational VHF use.

Perform at least three simulated radio calls aloud, including a distress call with position, nature of distress, and number of persons on board, without prompting.

Explain how to obtain and interpret a marine weather forecast, including wind warnings, swell, and the difference between forecast and observed conditions.

Describe the actions to take when a person falls overboard in daylight, including communication, manoeuvre, and recovery, and the radio call if assistance is needed.

Explain how to use an EPIRB and a personal locator beacon, including registration and when to activate them.

Apply decision-making to a deteriorating-weather scenario and justify turning back or seeking shelter.

Demonstrate pre-launch checks on a trailer or mooring, including hull, engine, fuel, safety gear, and weather, and state the reason for each check.

Perform slow-speed manoeuvres in open water, including holding a heading, turning in a confined space, and stopping within a boat length.

Demonstrate a controlled approach to a buoy or dock and a departure, using spring lines or a crew brief as appropriate.

Explain and practise the correct fitting and use of lifejackets, kill switch, and safety equipment for all persons on board.

Describe the effects of wind, tide, and propeller wash on low-speed handling and predict the drift in a given scenario.

Perform a person-overboard recovery under power in daylight, including the shout, marker, approach, and recovery, within a set time.

Demonstrate anchoring, including choosing a spot, setting the anchor, checking the scope, and confirming the anchor is holding.

Practise a Mayday call on the water using a handheld or fixed VHF, following the script learned in week 5.

Complete a short daylight passage as skipper or active crew, applying the passage plan from week 2 and recording actual times and positions.

Identify and correct at least three safety or seamanship errors observed during the session.

Complete a full-length timed mock exam covering all four domains and score at least 80% overall, with no domain below 70%.

Review every missed mock question and write a corrected explanation for each in your own words.

Rehearse the radio calls and on-water safety drills one final time until they are fluent and correctly sequenced.

Confirm exam-day logistics, including required identification, certificate prerequisites, and practical assessment arrangements.

Build a personal weak-point sheet and revise it for at least two hours before the exam.