Whether you are new to boating or already have some experience, we recommend you undertake safe boating education or training. A course, such as those offered by Coastguard Boating Education, will ensure that you have that essential boating knowledge to ensure your safety, as well as compliance with all maritime rules and associated legislation
While your boat does not need to be surveyed or inspected and you do not need any “official” qualification or licence to operate a pleasure boat (other than a radio operator qualification if you own a marine VHF radio), ignorance of the rules is not accepted as an excuse.
There are many training and education opportunities available to recreational boaties, including courses that can be studied by correspondence. You should aim for a combination of theory and practical training if possible.
Coastguard Boating Education
Coastguard Boating Education
Coastguard Boating Education offers a wide range of theoretical and on-water practical courses nationwide, from beginner to advanced, to suit all types of boating.
These include:
- Day skipper – an introductory course for all members of the family or crew, including those new to boating. Applies to a wide range of vessels, including yachts, launches, powerboats, jetskis, sea kayaks and waka.
- Boatmaster – a comprehensive course for boaties with some existing knowledge and experience.
- Marine VHF radio.
- Online module on Personal Watercraft Safety.
- Online module on Kayaking Safety.
Learn to Sail
Learn to Sail is a national programme developed by Yachting New Zealand. The programme covers the basic skills and is offered in both a dinghy sailing option and a keelboat sailing option. While the programme is taught mainly at yacht clubs it is increasingly being offered by commercial sailing schools.