Skipper responsibility
There’s no shirking your responsibilities if you’re a skipper - it’s as simple as that.
The skipper is legally responsible for the safety of the boat and all the people on board and is also responsible for complying with all the relevant rules and regulations. Every boat, regardless of size, must have a skipper.
If you want a short, sharp explanation of what a skipper's responsibilities entail, then here you go:
- Know the maritime rules
- Ensure lifejackets are carried onboard or worn at all times
- Know your bylaws
- Avoid alcohol
- Stick to safe speeds
On point number one above, Maritime New Zealand warns that ignorance of any maritime rules or regional bylaws is not accepted as an excuse. While no licence is required to operate a pleasure boat in NZ, failure to comply with the rules and bylaws can lead to instant fines or prosecution.
Maritime New Zealand recommends some form of boating education to ensure a solid understanding of the "rules of the road on the water". Coastguard Boating Education's Day Skipper course is now widely recommended as the minimum qualification for anyone taking a boat out, covering everything from checking the weather and understanding navigation to handling emergencies.
Understanding the maritime rules
Exactly what those 'road rules' entail includes keeping a proper lookout, understanding and operating within speed limits, knowing what to do when two boats meet, and protocols around overtaking and giving way. Skippers are also responsible for checking the weather forecast and tide times, carrying the approved forms of communication, and liaising with Maritime Radio or with local Coastguard.
As one would expect, Coastguard NZ has plenty to say about skipper responsibility. Too often, they see the carnage that can result when this is not adequately displayed. Skippers must have the know-how to manage the risks of being on the water. A skipper holds both a legal and moral responsibility for those on board.
The Coastguard website points out that while buoys and beacons act as signposts on the sea, indicating where safe water is, skippers should always consult a local chart to identify potential hazards lurking below the water. If the interpretation of such charts is tricky, there's a specific boating course that will assist.
Scrupulous checking is essential
Skippers must fastidiously check that everything on board is orderly, that equipment is efficient and reachable, that life-saving gear is handy and appropriate, and that weather conditions are suitable for the boat and its course and passengers. There's also a need to inform those on board about the use of onboard equipment (such as safety gear), preferably in a non-alarming way.
In addition to all of the above, Bay of Plenty Regional Council's advice to skippers also includes a few other pointers:
- Never overload your boat with people or equipment
- Make sure everything on board is properly stowed and secured
- Always maintain your boat, its motor, electrics, and equipment
- Check everything before you head out
- Listen for regular updates while you are out on the water
- Report any oil or fuel spills to the 24-hour pollution hotline on 0800 884 883
- Report any maritime incidents/accidents to the harbourmaster and Maritime New Zealand immediately
Important update for international voyages
From 1 July 2024, anyone planning to take their recreational boat overseas must now apply to Maritime New Zealand for an International Voyage Certificate (IVC), rather than seeking a Category 1 certificate from Yachting New Zealand as previously required. This certificate confirms your vessel, safety equipment, and crew are adequate for the intended voyage. It's recommended to start the application process 3-6 months in advance to avoid delays.
Regional bylaws matter
It's worth noting that regional bylaws are being updated across New Zealand. The Bay of Plenty, for instance, has adopted new maritime bylaws (coming into effect mid-2025) that include mandatory lifejacket use for vessels up to six metres and stricter speed limits in high-traffic areas. These changes reflect increasing emphasis on water safety following concerning accident statistics. Check your local regional council website for specific bylaws in your boating area.
Maritime NZ continues to deliver the national "No Excuses" compliance campaign in partnership with 14 regional councils, with harbourmasters actively monitoring for risky and illegal behaviour on the water. The message is clear: know, understand, and follow the rules for the area you're boating in.