Changes are coming for domestic commercial sailing vessels. From 30 June 2025, Exemption 18 (Sail) and Exemption 33 (Sailing vessel with motor propulsion) will expire.
If you currently operate under these exemptions, you will need to hold a National Law certificate of competency to continue working on a commercial sailing vessel.
What you need to do
If you want to command and operate the engines of a sailing vessel, you will need a Sailing Master Coastal or Sailing Master Offshore certificate. To qualify, you must obtain the following:
Commercially endorsed RYA Yachtmaster Certificate
You must hold one of the following:
- Coastal (for Sailing Master Coastal)
- Offshore or Ocean (for Sailing Master Offshore) Find more details on commercial endorsements at www.rya.org.uk.
Marine radio licence (Issued by the Office of Maritime Communication)
You must hold one of the following:
- Short range (for Sailing Master Coastal)
- Long range (for Sailing Master Offshore)
Valid medical fitness certificate
Current first aid certificate
Additional qualification
You must hold one of the following:
- Coxswain Grade 1 NC certificate of competency
- Marine Engine Driver Grade 3 certificate of competency
- MAR Maritime Training Package MARC037 Operate inboard and outboard motors or an equivalent MAR package course
- RYA Diesel Engine course and Australian Sailing Powerboat Handling course
- RYA Diesel Engine course and RYA Level 2 Powerboat course
If you are only performing the engineer role on a sailing vessel, you must hold a marine engine driver or a sailing certificate of competency.
Stay compliant – act now
Prepare for the changes and ensure your qualifications are up to date. Get all the details at www.amsa.gov.au (search Sailing Master Coastal or Sailing Master Offshore)
