Recreational Boat Theory

Learn the basics of boating; from preparing your vessel to learning the Maritime 'rules of the road'

We are proud to have been sharing our boating adventures with visitors to the Wanaka region for over 50 years. Following this experience and our core value around safety, we have decided to share our knowledge from years on the water to make your boating experience not only safe now; but something you can continue to do for years with your friends and family. While there are no actual boat licences in New Zealand there are some pretty hefty fines and consequences for failing to know Maritime Laws and not following them.

Recreational Boat Theory

This course is designed for recreational boaties and crew, including those new to boating. It covers general knowledge required to operate a pleasure craft in favourable weather/water, at an introductory level.

  • Covers the introduction of a vessel, its parts, safety equipment and basic handling techniques.

  • Learn how to prepare for a day on the water and what you need to do prior to going out.

  • Look into your obligations as a skipper including Maritime Rules to make sure you're safe out on the water.

  • Learn how to deal with emergencies and how to protect on marine environment.

Course Overview

  • 1

    The Vessel

    • Introduction to Boating

    • Parts of a Vessel

    • Recommended Equipment

    • PFDs

    • Anchors

    • Signalling Equipment

    • Secondary Propulsion and Bailer

    • Fire Extinguisher

    • Boat Handling Basics

    • The Vessel Quiz
  • 2

    Before you head out

    • Check the conditions

    • Share your Plans

    • Charts

    • Compass

    • Weather

    • Vessel Checks

    • Outboard Engines Overview Checklist

    • Inboard Engine Overview Checklist

    • Vessel Maintenance

    • Maintenance Checklist Example

    • Fueling Your Boat

    • Before you head out quiz
  • 3

    Know the Maritime Rules

    • Skipper Obligations

    • Rules for Encountering Other Vessels

    • Buoys and Beacons

    • Navigation Lights and Sounds

    • Stick to a Safe Speed

    • Life Jackets

    • Know you Bylaws

    • Collision Prevention Quiz
  • 4

    On the water

    • About the Environment

    • Guidelines for doing your Part

    • Oil Spills

    • Emergencies

    • Making a MAYDAY call

    • Reporting Accidents etc

    • Using knots

    • On the water quiz
  • 5

    Exam

    • Part 1 Exam

    • Part 2 Exam

Finished your Theory Training?

Finished your theory training and received your certificate of competency. Continue your full recreational program with our practical training and assessments.

Book Practical Training and Assessments