What to expect from a BoatSafe course
BoatSafe minimum course duration
The minimum course duration for training and assessment for a recreational marine driver licence is six hours for a maximum group of four students. The course includes theory and practical elements covering the following units of competency:
- Prepare a recreational vessel for operation.
- Apply international and state regulations relevant to the operation of a recreational vessel.
- Assess weather conditions and forecasts.
- Operate mechanical and electrical appliances of a recreational vessel.
- Manoeuvre a recreational vessel.
- Apply safety management processes on a recreational vessel.
Further information about the units of competency is detailed in the BoatSafe Competency Standard (PDF, 140 KB).
BoatSafe training providers can increase class size by allocating additional time and equipment to ensure quality outcomes in training and assessment. Where the course is delivered and assessed under the six-hour minimum requirement, the training provider must direct students to complete the BoatSafe workbook before taking the course. The training provider keeps the completed activities in the workbook as part of the evidence of assessment.
Recognition of prior learning
Assessment under recognition of prior learning is available only to those who have prior experience in vessel operations or have completed an equivalent qualification or course of study. The BoatSafe training provider will determine if students' prior learning qualifies them for assessment either in part or full against the BoatSafe requirements.
Flexible training delivery
Remote learning and other types of flexible training are only available where:
- students reside in a location that is not serviced by an approved BoatSafe training provider
- students' work arrangements (for example shift work) prevent them from presenting for recognition of prior learning or attending a BoatSafe course at the training facility.
Remote learning and flexible training must be supported by a competency-based assessment that:
- is completed by a qualified training provider endorsed by a BoatSafe training organisation consistent with information provided to Maritime Safety Queensland
- provides for the practical application of skills and knowledge necessary to demonstrate the student's ability to satisfy the performance criteria of the competency units.
Practical assessment must take place while the vessel is operating.
Feedback
Maritime Safety Queensland is keen to ensure the quality and standard of training and assessment delivered under BoatSafe. If your BoatSafe experience did not meet the expectations as outlined above, we would like to hear from you. Send your feedback by email to msqmail@msq.qld.gov.au or post to Safety Standards Branch, Maritime Safety Queensland, GPO Box 2595, Brisbane Queensland 4001.
