Got Your Skipper's Ticket?
By April 2008, every skipper of a registrable recreational vessel powered by a motor greater than 4.5kwp (6 hp) (RST vessel) will be required to hold a Recreational Skipper's Ticket.
A person aged between 14 and 16 cannot be in charge of an RST vessel unless they hold an RST. Age restrictions also apply to this age group & vessels may be operated only during daylight hours and at a maximum speed of 8 knots.
If you're between 14 and 25 you must obtain an RST before April 2007.
Over 25s will have until April 2008 before they are required to hold an RST.
The RST is a certificate of competency, not a licence. It is purely about demonstrating the minimum knowledge and practical skills needed to operate a boat safely on the water. It is based on a set of marine safety competencies that have been agreed nationally. The assessment of these competencies will be in two sections: theory and practical. Depending on your prior qualification or existing experience you may be exempt from all or part of the assessment.
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