| The Skipper is legally responsible
for the safety of the boat and all the people on board.
The Skipper is also responsible for complying with all the
relevant rules and regulations. Remember:
Even though no licence is required to operate a pleasure
boat in New Zealand, ignorance of any Maritime Rules or Bylaws
is not accepted as an excuse. Failure to comply can lead to
fines or prosecution.
You should also encourage your crew and passengers to take
part in the operation of the boat to increase their knowledge
and enjoyment.
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If
you are the Skipper you must...
- ensure you have aboard the necessary equipment
for the trip you intend to make;
- make sure everyone on board knows what
safety equipment is carried, where it is stowed and how
it works;
- have on board a life jacket or buoyancy
aid that meets NZ Standard 5823:2001 or has otherwise been
accepted by the Maritime NZ, in the right size and type, for every
person on the boat;
- it is a legal requirement that life jackets
are worn when crossing river bars, during emergencies, in
rough water or at times of heightened risk, such as after
drinking alcohol. Children and all non-swimmers should always
wear their life jacket when on board unless inside an enclosed
area such as a cabin;
- always operate your boat, so as not to
endanger people or property;
- never overload your boat with either people
or equipment;
- make sure everything on board is properly
stowed and secured;
- ensure everyone is sitting safely and holding
on when in choppy seas or when travelling at
speed;
- always maintain your boat, its motor, electrics
and equipment and check everything before you go out;
- get a marine weather forecast before you
head out, listen for regular updates while you are out
and remember to check the tides. If in doubt don't go out;
- always carry 2 means for communicating
distress and, in boats under 6 metres, make sure one means
is waterproof;
- make a trip report on your VHF radio and
stay in contact with Maritime Radio or the local Coastguard
or marine radio service;
- have a chart of the area you are going
boating in and make sure you are aware of hazards such as
rocks, tide-rips, cables, prohibited areas and shipping
channels;
- for maritime rules that apply to boating
visit www.maritimenz.govt.nz.
Don't go overboard with the booze.
Alcohol will effect your co-ordination and
judgement, and significantly reduce your chance of survival
if you end up in the water. Take food and non-alcoholic drinks
on board for you and your passengers.
If you have an accident on the water you are
legally required to report it to the Maritime NZ and the local Harbourmaster within 48 hours.
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