A marina with a commercial work boat beside a concrete pier

Coxswain Grade 3 Near Coastal

Commercial Qualification
Practical Assessment

White silhouette of a commercial shipyard crane

Career

White silhouette of a commercial vessel

Boating

White silhouette of a pile mooring with dock ropes on it for a commercial vessel

Testing

Join our scheduled dates:

Minimum group size of 4 or more:

Maritime Assessments You Can Trust

Our training courses are highly rated by hundreds of satisfied customers:

We’re 5-Star Rated!

Sergey Kholodov profile pictureSergey Kholodov
05:25 23 Dec 25
ABC made the process so easy! Passing the 65 questions for boat+PWC licence was like 2x2 after the course. When I came to Service NSW today they were truly surprised that I had all the papers, photos and filled forms ready in one folder. They actually asked me where I did the course, so they could suggest using it to others. Didn't need to do anything - just to spend a nice and well planned day with ABC. Highly recommended!
Harry R profile pictureHarry R
10:42 21 Dec 25
If you are looking to get your boat license the best place to go to is ABC boating course. I did my my boating course yesterday and the instructors listened to you and taught you very well about boating. I set of at 9 in the morning we first learned how to properly anchor and then we did slow turning paterns like turning in a 8 shape while in forward and reverse. After that we did man over board drills were you drive the boat and the instructor throws out a floating thing and calls man overboard then you have to successfully come up beside the thing in the water and the instructor will pick it up. Now we get to the faster stuff you will be driving the boat at about 20 to 25 knots so about 40 to 55 kph. Then the classroom they will sit you down there are 3 section that each go for about an hour with breaks in between. They will teach you everything you need to know for the test. Now the test they will give you a 2 codes and a ipad the first code is for the first attempt and the second is for the second attempt if you need it. during the test there 50 questions broken up in the 2 sections section A and section B in section A there in 30 questions and in B there is 20 in section A you can get 6 wrong and in section B you can get none wrong. if you need help during the test you can ask one of the instructors to give you a hint. Overall had a great time and definitely recommend.
Meraj Khan profile pictureMeraj Khan
06:23 13 Dec 25
Did my PWC licence with ABC boating School, Sydney, at Hawkesbury and overall had a really fab experience. The instructors PAUL and ADAM were friendly, patient and explained things well. There is definitely a lot to take in on the navigation and rules side, but they break it down in a way that makes sense.

Honestly, I think once you’re out on the water, getting experience is the best way to really lock it all in. The practical side helped a lot and I felt comfortable by the end of it. Everything was organised and ran smoothly.

Would recommend ABC Boat School if you’re thinking of getting your licence.

Last but needs to be the first- A BIG shout-out to JUSTIN in the backend office — hands down, a smooth operator. Absolute legend keeping things moving, behind the scenes.

Thanks ADAM for the last-minute tips and the recommendations on good spots for first-timers in NSW — really helpful. 👍
Gerry Byrne profile pictureGerry Byrne
00:03 10 Dec 25
I found the boating course a very positive experience. Throughout my career I have undertaken a lot of training programs and found this one to be of a high standard, providing key learnings particularly around safety.

Ron was a very clear communication, had a friendly and open approach but did not compromise on the standard required from the applicants.

Overall I would highly recommend to any perspective applicant. Apart from that the 2.5 hr practical on s beautiful Sydney morning on the water was a bonus.
Lauryn Mccallum profile pictureLauryn Mccallum
00:35 07 Dec 25
Highly recommended these guys if you’re not sure which way to go to get your boat license! It was such a fun stress free day to do everything in one day without the hassle of needing to fill out a logbook.
They teach you everything you need to know which just makes you feel so much more confident being on the water you’re not left unsure! They really explained everything in detail and the classroom theory was so in depth that by the time you do the test it’s a breeze!
Cannot recommend these guys enough they’re brilliant!⭐️
Elena Gould profile pictureElena Gould
04:55 20 Oct 25
The instructors were not only incredibly informative but also managed to make the entire day fun and engaging. They explained everything clearly, answered all questions with patience, and ensured everyone felt confident before moving on to the next step.
The balance between practical training and theory was spot-on, and their real-world tips were super helpful. You can tell they genuinely care about safety and making sure you leave the course feeling prepared.
Highly recommend this course to anyone looking to get their license. It was professional, enjoyable, and a great day overall!
Jennifer Sharpe profile pictureJennifer Sharpe
07:24 15 Oct 25
My 12 year old son just completed the boat licence course. He had Todd as his instructor for the practical and theory.

He had a great time on the boat and really enjoyed the learning component. He was so good with my son and put me at ease.

He found it really enjoyable, had a great day, learned a lot and ended up most importantly passing the test.

Would highly recommend to anyone interested. The booking process was so easy and communication was fantastic.
David Hayward profile pictureDavid Hayward
08:47 28 Jul 25
In the classroom the instructor was very knowledgeable and made the sessions entertaining and informative. On the water the boat was of high standard and the learning was fun. Thanks for making this an overall great experience.
Andy Manuel profile pictureAndy Manuel
23:41 18 Jul 25
Very well run training! My son is only 12 and struggles with anxiety. Adam was aware of this and made every effort to cater for his needs and was very supportive. I already have a boat drivers license but I did the course as well and learnt so much that I really feel much more confident on the water knowing my passengers and me are safer with all the knowledge needed to respond in the right way if a situation arose. I’ve now signed up for the VHF radio course. Thanks 🙏 Andy
Auxelius profile pictureAuxelius
07:31 29 Jun 25
The training was one of the best I've been to. The instructor delivered the course content in a clear, calm, and friendly manner. Well paced course keeping it informative and engaging with the instructor being supportive from start to end. Highly recommend anyone thinking of getting their boat licence to go with ABC. 5 stars.
Niki Hvidsten profile pictureNiki Hvidsten
00:13 16 Jun 25
Communication was clear and timely. Training material was well presented for pre-reading as well as during the in person session. Start and finish time was on time. Facilities both, the boat and the classroom was perfect. Adam is very knowledgeable, affable, clear and patient both on and off the water. Would highly recommend ABC for their courses. ABC came recommended to me by a previous student and both my husband and I were not disappointed. Sign up if you are thinking about it.
JOHN ELIAS HATEM profile pictureJOHN ELIAS HATEM
08:11 15 Jun 25
Adam Smith was absolutely phenomenal. An absolutely brilliant boat driving instructor. Took complex boating terms and explained them in a way that was clear, simple, and easy to remember. Everyone in our group — over 10 people — passed thanks to his guidance. Highly recommend!
Corey McPherson profile pictureCorey McPherson
08:59 01 Jun 25
Very well delivered course. Instructor was great, calm and clear with instructions and direction. Would recommend anyone who wants their license to use ABC.
Will McCarthy profile pictureWill McCarthy
07:24 19 May 25
Absolutely unreal course with unreal instructors. Adam was super professional and explained everything that was needed and then some. Answered any and all questions we had, even if they weren’t directly related to the course. Will be back for a 1 on 1 and Radio course.
Eduardo Da Assuncao profile pictureEduardo Da Assuncao
02:52 18 Mar 25
Thanks very much for a very well presented and clear manual and instructions and subsequent face to face lecture with Pete my instructor and examiner. We finished the course with practical boat handling at Gosford Brisbane waters. I highly recommend ABC Sydney for a boat licence (skipper's Licence). Once again thank you.
Ji Sue Kim profile pictureJi Sue Kim
05:37 12 Mar 25
An engaging instructor who provides comprehensive training in practical knowledge, demonstrating a deep understanding of effective training methods. Highly proficient in practical assessments.👍
Jordan Okhiria profile pictureJordan Okhiria
02:19 11 Mar 25
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

I had a fantastic experience with Australian Boating College Sydney while completing my Boat Licence Course at the Royal Motor Yacht Club in Newport. The setting in the courtyard was great, but what really made the day exceptional was our instructor, Phil.

Phil’s knowledge, patience, and clear way of explaining everything made both the theory and practical components easy to understand. He kept the session engaging and ensured everyone felt confident before moving on to the practical assessment. Out on the water, he was just as professional, providing great guidance while making sure we were comfortable and safe.

If you’re looking to get your boat licence, I highly recommend ABC Sydney—especially with Phil as your instructor!
Sergey Kozlov profile pictureSergey Kozlov
06:39 16 Feb 25
Great place to get your boating license started. Great and helpful instructors, hands on boating in a good boat, very clear and informative theory, all topped up with some good humor. Highly recommend. And I am off to Service NSW for my license
Stuart Anderson profile pictureStuart Anderson
05:37 02 Feb 25
I completed the NSW Boat Licence program today and it was invaluable in helping me fully understand all the requirements for safe boating The practical part of the course was amazing and really helped build my skills. The instructor Phil was a true expert and answered and discussed all aspects in simple practical language that helped cement the requirements in my knowledge. I give this experience 10/10!
Georgie Blackwell profile pictureGeorgie Blackwell
04:55 24 Jan 25
Great day with ABC getting my boat and PWC licence all in a day. The practical component was a lot of fun and great a confidence building while also preparing us for the knowledge in the afternoon. It was a big day but worth it. Thank you to the whole team!
Carl Khraiche profile pictureCarl Khraiche
07:44 20 Jan 25
Just finished and had an amazing experience with ABC Boating. The course was incredibly well-structured and informative, combining practical experience on the boat with navigation training, all in one day. I was able to complete both my PWC and boat licences, which was super convenient. The price is very reasonable, especially considering the focus on safety and the expert knowledge shared throughout the session. After the practical, we went through the theory in a straightforward and easy to follow manner, ensuring we fully understood the content. Big shoutout to the team at ABC Boating for their professionalism and dedication. I highly recommend their services to anyone looking to get their licences or improve their boating skills. Fantastic job. Thank you Todd and Adam
Richiee lotoilaione profile pictureRichiee lotoilaione
03:53 20 Jan 25
Awesome experience. Instructors adam and Steve were Great 👍
Ali profile pictureAli
09:14 19 Jan 25
The practical part of the course was a great learning experience and fun with Steve. The theory part was efficient and effective. Steve and Adam are highly knowledgeable and helpful with a friendly and professional manner. Thank you
Logan Cooney profile pictureLogan Cooney
08:46 16 Jan 25
Steve & Todd great instructors, they show amazing enthusiasm to your learning and have a want for you to pass
Mohammed Ma profile pictureMohammed Ma
04:32 16 Jan 25
The best boating course ever 👌🏼
Kathleen O'Hara profile pictureKathleen O'Hara
09:06 13 Jan 25
My 14 year old daughter and I did the course today and Todd and Phil were excellent. We had Todd for the practical part and he was great at teaching us how the boat works and safety on the harbour. He pointed out things we should now and emphasised things that are always on the test to help us pass. The theory part of the day also helped to reinforce the knowledge we had learnt all to help us pass the test which we both did. Thank you! I would definitely recommend ABC Boating, they were great and made it a fun day!
Jarrod Davis profile pictureJarrod Davis
04:13 09 Jan 25
Only way to get your boat license
Joan Liu profile pictureJoan Liu
10:13 06 Jan 25
Learned a lot also had fun, especially thankful to both coatches paid extra patience and support to English as 2nd language learner. Recommend to all.
Ruth Stringer profile pictureRuth Stringer
10:44 05 Jan 25
What a fantastic course! A jam packed day of learning started with the practical experience exercises which I was very nervous about. Adam was really clear and encouraging and gave me the confidence to complete the assigned tasks. The classroom segment conducted by Todd was thorough and really reinforced the critical concepts. Very pleased to have passed with full marks - I don’t think I could have achieved this without the very structured training provided. Thanks to both Adam and Todd for an excellent day and for helping with other boat related queries.
Gamal Mark profile pictureGamal Mark
03:44 05 Jan 25
Very good service

What is the Coxswain 3 Assessment?

Love boating and want to explore it as a career? One of the best entry points is the Coxswain Grade 3 Near Coastal, which gives you one of the qualifications needed to work in Marine Services at a Marina, Yacht Club, or Shipwright.

Coxswain 3 allows you to command a vessel less than 12 metres long, with up to 6 people onboard during daylight, and of three different engine powers: towing vessels up to 500kW, outboard engines less than 250kW, or inboard less than 100kW.

This qualification is replacing the old Exemption 38, you can read more about it on the AMSA website.

With this qualification in your wheelhouse you’ll be ready for anything!

A person in a boat repair shop, surrounded by tools and a laptop, who uses the Coxswain 3 qualification for their duties

Complete Coxswain 3 in just 4 steps!

1

Hold a Valid
Boat Licence

A person holding a Boat Licence, having successfully passed the NSW Boat Licence Course
  • You need an Australian Boat Licence
  • If you don’t have one, do our full-day course
  • It must be valid and can be from any state

2

Pass the Coxswain
3 Assessment

A student and Instructor on a boat during the Coxswain 3 Practical Assessment
  • Sit the Coxswain 3 Assessment with ABC
  • Show how to operate a commercial vessel
  • Display knowledge of emergency procedures

3

Complete the
Checklists

A person filling out some paper forms
  • Fill out the required forms and checklists
  • Get your HLTAID011 First Aid Certificate
  • Ask your employer for proof of sea time

4

Get your
Coxswain Grade 3

Person handing a completed Coxswain 3 New Certificate form to an employee over the counter
  • Apply at Australia Post for your Coxswain 3
  • It’s valid for 5 years from the date of issue
  • Get out and work in the Marine Industry!

Know someone who needs help with their Coxswain?
Give the gift of a Boat Licence Course to get them started!

1

Hold a Valid Australian Boat Licence

Which Licence counts for Coxswain 3?

There are two Licences in NSW that count directly for the Coxswain Grade 3 Certificate of Competency:

NSW General Boat Driving Licence

Complete your Boat Licence training in our course

NSW Boat & PWC Licence

The combined Licence also counts

If you’re from another Australian State or Territory your valid Boating Licence is also recognised towards the Coxswain 3.

Finally, if you have previously attained the Exemption 38 then your final practical record may be considered in place of the Boat Licence – see AMSA for more.

2

Pass the Coxswain 3 Practical Assessment

What happens during the Assessment?

The assessment will begin beside your commercial registered vessel, so long as it is appropriate for use with the Coxswain 3 Qualification (eg a tender or work boat).

If you do not have access to a vessel then we can arrange for our training vessel to be used instead.

Once onboard we will begin the assessment, which is based on your competency at demonstrating the required tasks, some of which can be seen below:

Locate and access safety equipment onboard

Provide pre-departure briefing to passengers

Control the vessel safely at low and high speed

Bring vessel to wharf, mooring, berth, or pen

Other techniques and skills

What is the minimum group size?

This course requires a minimum of 4 participants to organise, we book them in as requested and don’t currently have a schedule of dates to join.

Is a Marine Radio Qualification also Required?

It is not required to have a Marine Radio qualification to become eligible for Coxswain Grade 3 Near Coastal.

However, operating a Marine Radio may be part of your duties at your workplace while transporting passengers or completing other tasks.

Students will often complete the Coxswain and Marine Radio assessments at the same time.

You can read more about our Marine Radio Courses for SROCP and LROCP.

3

Complete the Checklists and Forms

Coxswain 3 Form Requirements

Once you’ve got a Boat Licence and have passed the Practical Assessment, there are three further items:

Hold a valid HLTAID011 First Aid Certificate or Equivalent

You’ll need to hold a current First Aid Certificate that is the equivalent of the HLTAID011 – AMSA has a list of acceptable alternatives on their website:

AMSA First Aid Alternatives

If you don’t have one, you can complete the HLTAID011 First Aid Certificate through our sister brand Fast Lane First Aid:

Fast Lane First Aid HLTAID011 Course

Fast Lane First Aid Logo

Pass a Medical Exam with a GP, Doctor, or Optometrist

Then you’ll undergo a medical assessment to prove your fitness, as well as an eyesight test.

If your GP is not able to perform the “Ishihara plate test” for you in their office, you’ll also need to see an Optometrist.

Your results get recorded on the “Certificate of medical fitness as a domestic seafarer” form:

AMSA Form 1850

Show Proof of Relevant Sea Time

Coxswain 3 requires at least one day of qualifying sea service on a commercial vessel.

You can show this with a letter that thoroughly details your sea service, written by a vessel operator, owner, master, or chief engineer.

Alternatively, ask your employer to complete the “Record of sea service” form:

AMSA Form 771

4

Get Your Coxswain Grade 3 Certificate

Lift off with your Coxswain 3

There are just two things left to finish:

Fill out Certificate of Competency Application Form

Compile all the information about your sea service and other qualifications, then prepare your final completed form:

AMSA Form 426

Lodge your form at an Authorised Australia Post

Take your finished form to a specially authorised Australia Post outlet, where you will have a photo taken, have your ID verified, and pay the “New Certificate” application fee

Authorised Australia Post Locations

Coxswain Grade 3 Application Fees

Coxswain Grade 3
as easy as A, B, C!

Frequently Asked Questions

Coxswain 3 Assessment
On Your Boat

$495 pp

Group size of 4 or more
Minimum Cost $1980

Coxswain 3 Assessment
On ABC Vessel

$750 pp

$495 pp
for group of 4 or more

Marine Radio Short Range
SROCP

$370 pp

Optional Add-On

First Aid Certificate
HLTAID011

$110 pp

Optional Add-On

Coxswain application and processing fees are charged separately, and can be seen on the AMSA Fees For Services Page

Are there any pre-requisites? Do I need to have boating experience first?

To complete the full Coxswain Grade 3 application form you must complete all the required steps:

Be at least 16 years of age

Hold a valid Australian Boat Licence

Pass the Coxswain 3 Practical Assessment

Hold an HLTAID011 First Aid Certificate or equivalent

Pass a Medical Exam with a professional

Show proof of relevant sea time

The steps can be completed in any order.

You won’t be required to hold a Boat Licence before the assessment as you’ll be onboard with one of our Instructors for training purposes – but it’s a good idea to do that first.

Do I have to pay before the course? Can I pay on the day?

Due to the nature of this assessment we require payment in full prior to the day.

What if I have a hard time with reading or learning?

If you have trouble with Learning, Literature and Numeracy, please let us know before your course so we can best plan to help you.

We are happy to discuss and always strive to support everyone where possible.

Which language is used during the Course? Can it be translated?

All Course material is provided in English, and all training content is also delivered in English.

There is no opportunity to have a translated version, or to bring an interpreter with you to the course.

Please get in touch with us if you’d like to know more about your options for other languages.

Do I need to know how to swim?

You don’t need to be able to swim, or be a strong swimmer, to attend the course.

We’ll ask all passengers to wear a comfortable inflatable lifejacket upon boarding, which will keep you afloat if it touches the water.

We’ve never had anyone test that for us; but we do get the lifejackets serviced regularly just in case.

How long is Coxswain 3 valid for?

Once you have submitted your paperwork and it’s approved, the certificate is valid for 5 years.

It can be renewed at the end of that period without requalifying.

How much is the Coxswain 3 Certificate fee?

Certificate processing fees are charged separately, and a list of prices can be seen on the AMSA Fees Page.

Renewing a Certificate comes with a slight discount.

What are the limitations of the Coxswain 3 Certificate?

According to the Australian Maritime Safety Authority info page, you’ll be allowed to do the following (emphasis ours):

  • Command and operate the engines of a vessel less than 12 metres long with outboard engine propulsion less than 250 kW, or inboard engines less than 100 kilowatts
    • Carrying no more than 6 persons including crew and master
    • In daylight hours only, if carrying passengers
    • Operating within the following:
      • A marina
      • A mooring area in sight and communication of a marina
      • Inland waters
      • Smooth waters
      • Within 1 nautical mile of shore
      • Inside or within 1 nautical mile of an aquaculture lease or in waters approved for daily transit to and from an aquaculture lease
  • Command and operate the engines of a tender less than 12 metres long with outboard engine propulsion less than 250 kW, or inboard engines less than 100 kilowatts
    • In daylight hours only, if carrying passengers
    • Operating within:
      • 1 nautical mile of a parent vessel within the exclusive economic zone and in line of sight of the parent vessel

This certificate will also allow you to:

  • Command and operate the engines of a vessel less than 12 metres long with propulsion power for inboard or outboard engine of up to 500 kW
    • That is used only for towing people
    • In daylight hours only
    • In waters approved as a water ski area by a State or Territory authority.