Recreational Skippers Ticket
Who has to have one?
By April 2008, every skipper of a registrable recreational vessel powered by a motor greater than 4.5kwp (6 hp) (RST vessel) will be required to hold a Recreational Skipper’s Ticket.
A person aged between 14 and 16 cannot be in charge of an RST vessel unless they hold an RST. Age restrictions also apply to this age group – vessels may be operated only during daylight hours and at a maximum speed of 8 knots.
If you’re between 14 and 25 you must obtain an RST before April 2007.
Over 25s will have until April 2008 before they are required to hold an RST.
| To operate a vessel with a motor 4.5 kwp (6 hp) or less, a Recreational Skipper’s Ticket is not required. | |
| Age Group | Requirement |
| Under 10 | May not operate any vessel unaccompanied |
| Over 10 | May operate a powered recreational vessel if the motor is 4.5 kwp (6 hp) or less. |
| Under 16 | May operate a vessel only during daylight hours and at a speed less than 8 knots. |
| To operate an RST vessel a Recreational Skipper’s Ticket is required. | |
| Age Group | Requirement |
| 14 – 25 | Must obtain an RST by 1 April 2007 |
| Under 16 | May only operate a vessel during daylight hours and at a speed less than 8 knots |
| Over 25 | Must obtain an RST by 1 April 2008. |
How do I get one?
To obtain an RST you must have your skills assessed by an RST authorised assessor. Depending on your prior skill or qualifications you may need to demonstrate your competency in the theory and practical sections or just the theory section. Whether or not to attend a training course is your choice.
-
The Assessment
The assessments will test your skills and knowledge in the following areas:
Theoretical Section
The theory assessment will take about 60 minutes and consists of 30 multiple-choice questions. You will need to get at least 24 correct before progressing to the practical assessment.
The multiple-choice paper will assess your knowledge and understanding of:
- rules and regulations;
- international collision rules;
- buoyage and other navigation aids;
- navigation lights;
- maintenance of vessel, motor and equipment;
- safety equipment required to be carried;
- trip planning, and responsibilities to passengers; and
- distress signals, and response to distress and other emergencies.
Practical Section
The assessment effectively requires you to demonstrate a well-conducted boating trip, including preparation and vessel manoeuvring. Specific tasks you will be assessed on include:
- throughout the assessment, operating within the rules and regulations;
- checking the condition of a vessel’s anchoring gear and berthing lines and hardware;
- conducting a safety briefing for all on board;
- starting the motor safely;
- logging a voyage plan;
- safely departing a berth;
- conducting a simulated man overboard operation;
- steering a steady course with the aid of a transit;
- performing a controlled stop;
- returning to a berth and securing the vessel; and
- logging off.
The practical assessment will take about 60 minutes and requires you to skipper a vessel through the above tasks. You can get a copy of the workbook which has everything you will need by clicking on the link below.
-
Boatservices Australia are RST authorised assessors and will begin training within the next month in groups and individually if required. Please register your interest or direct your enquiries to rst@boatservicesaustralia.com.au
-
For exemptions and other information regarding recognition of prior learning click on the link below for the DPI info
