A small group of students completing a Private Boat Licence Course

Private Licence Course:
Boat or Jetski

Our Incredible Training
Small Groups Guaranteed

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White silhouette of a powerboat, with waves underneath

Boating

A person riding a Jetski using their PWC Licence

Jetski

Done in just 1 day!

Quality Private Training You Can Trust

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

We’re 5-Star Rated!

Paul Esler profile picture
Paul Esler
06:13 01 Feb 26
Awesome experience on Pittwater in Sydney with the guys from ABC. The practical was great, with well explained demos and then plenty of guidance for each student to complete the required tasks. The practical sessions were fantastic. There is a lot of terminology to learn and remember, and the visual methods the presenters use to drum home the required knowledge, not only helps you ace the test but to actually remember what you were taught!
nath splr profile picture
nath splr
10:18 18 Jan 26
I think learning from these professional boaters is a must not only you get your licence credited from them they make it feel fun.
I left with more accurate information and good memory for everything needed couldn't get much better then them if you want to learn.
Very smooth sailing from start to finish and a boat load of fun..
Sergey Kholodov profile picture
Sergey 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 picture
Harry 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 picture
Meraj 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 picture
Gerry 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 picture
Lauryn 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 picture
Elena 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 picture
Jennifer 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 picture
David 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 picture
Andy 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 picture
Auxelius
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 picture
Niki 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 picture
JOHN 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 picture
Corey 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 picture
Will 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 picture
Eduardo 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 picture
Ji 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 picture
Jordan 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 picture
Sergey 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 picture
Stuart 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 picture
Georgie 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 picture
Carl 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 picture
Richiee lotoilaione
03:53 20 Jan 25
Awesome experience. Instructors adam and Steve were Great 👍
Ali profile picture
Ali
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 picture
Logan 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 picture
Mohammed Ma
04:32 16 Jan 25
The best boating course ever 👌🏼
Kathleen O'Hara profile picture
Kathleen 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 picture
Jarrod Davis
04:13 09 Jan 25
Only way to get your boat license
Joan Liu profile picture
Joan 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.

Who is the Private Licence Course for?

Want to get your Boating or Jetski Licence with friends or family, but don’t want to join our standard courses open to the public?

We offer Private Courses that offer great flexibility and total privacy for you and your group, ensuring no distractions get between you and the course.

All the training content is the same as our standard Public Boat Licence Course, but with more focus on you!

Get your Private Boat or Jetski Course in just 4 easy steps!

1

Practical Boating
Experience

A student learning how to drive a boat during a NSW Boat Licence Course
  • No need for a logbook – do your prac in 1 go!
  • On-water sessions all around Sydney
  • 3 comfortable & modern vessels

2

Classroom
Session

An Instructor teaching students in the classroom as part of the NSW Boat Licence Course
  • Fantastic training by expert boaties
  • Frequently updated presentation
  • Demonstrations, videos, and more

3

Official Boating
Knowledge Test

A Person sitting the Test or Exam on a touchscreen Tablet during the NSW Boat Licence Course
  • Sit the Boat Test with ABC in the afternoon
  • If you don’t pass, come back another day
  • No additional cost for test attempts

4

Get your NSW
Boat Licence

A person holding a Boat Licence, having successfully passed the NSW Boat Licence Course
  • Get fully qualified and pass the course
  • Lodge form at Service NSW & pay the fee
  • Get your Boat Licence, go boating!

Know a discerning skipper?
Give the gift of a Private Licence Course!

Private Licence Courses with ABC

What’s included in a Private Course?

We include all the training and assessment that we do in our standard full-day Boat Licence Course or if you’re looking for the Jet Ski Licence as well, our Boat & PWC Licence Course.

The only difference is that we guarantee your group size will only be as large as you want, and you’ll have exclusive attention of our trainer for the entire course!

Where can I run my Private Course?

Often we run the on-water practical section from a nearby boat ramp or wharf, then move to our partner venue to complete the theory training & test.

You can browse our course locations and find a venue close to you, as we can easily check availability and arrange a room.

A small group of students completing a Private Licence Course to obtain their NSW Boat Licence

When can I run my Course?

The easiest days to organise a private course are midweek on a Tuesday, Wednesday, or Friday.

We are able to run private courses on weekends or other days, however these are subject to trainer availability as they are normally busy days at ABC Sydney.

You can most easily lock in a date if you get in early.

How many students can do the course?

For private courses we offer our full-day Boat Licence Course with optional PWC/Jet Ski Licence.

We can run a course for as little as one person (for the ultimate solo learning experience), or you can have a whole group of only your friends with no distractions.

The minimum cost for a private course is charged for 4 students and can be seen in the Frequently Asked Questions at the bottom of the page, with additional students at an extra charge.

How do I book my Private Course?

Just use the red button below or give us a call!

Let us know how many students you’d like to attend, where you’d like your course, and a date – we’ll get in touch and sort you out!

Private Licence Courses
as easy as A, B, C!

Frequently Asked Questions

Private NSW Boat Licence Course – $495 pp

Minimum Cost $1980

Private Boat Jetski Licence Course – $595 pp

Minimum Cost $2380

Private courses are charged at a mimum of 4 students, with additional students at an extra charge.

Licence processing fees are charged separately, and can be seen on the NSW Government fees page.

Can I run the course out of my home?

Unfortunately due to the training agreement in NSW (that applies to all providers), we are unable to run courses from locations or venues that are not pre-approved by them.

This is a lengthy process that involves submission of floorplans, fire escapes, max occupancy, and more.

Please consider our standard venues, as we have great coverage around Sydney and are sure to have a location near to you.

Is there a minimum amount of people required?

You are welcome to have 1-4 people attend – but courses are charged at a minimum of 4 as detailed above.

We have run courses for just one person before and are happy to do this for you!

Boat Licence Training Information

Please find all information regarding the NSW Boat Licence Training on the Boat page

Jetski Licence Training Information

Please find all information regarding the combined NSW Jetski Licence Training on the Jetski page