The Coxswain Grade 3 qualification is new to the industry and offers fresh opportunities for those who already hold a boat licence. The practical exam is hands-on, meaning there are no written questions (these would have been covered during boat licence training). You’ll be tested on real-world tasks that show you can safely operate a vessel in a variety of conditions. This is about demonstrating skills and vital knowledge, not memorising theory.
Key Skills You Need to Master
During our Coxswain Grade 3 practical course and exam, we will train and assess you on the following skills:
1. Vessel, Crew, and Passenger Preparation
- Get the basics sorted before departure:
- Check the vessel’s seaworthiness – fuel, oil, cooling systems, batteries, and steering.
- Make sure safety gear is onboard and ready – life jackets, EPIRB, fire extinguishers.
- Go through the maintenance logbook.
- Ensure passenger numbers and cargo are within capacity and appropriate for the conditions. For example, avoid loading to capacity if weather is rough or you’re heading offshore.
- Show safe working practices like keeping an eye on pollution (waste, wake, noise, wash) and know domestic vessel rules.
- Communicate clearly with your crew and passengers about what’s happening and what’s expected, and communicate your intentions to relevant people on shore.
2. Weather and Tide Planning
- Check and understand the weather forecast, tides, and sea conditions.
- Plan your trip based on what’s coming up.
3. Navigation
- Follow the rules on navigation aids like buoys, marks, signage, and shapes.
- Show you know the collision rules: safe speed, keeping a lookout, and what to do in give-way or stand-on situations.
- Show you know the responsibilities between vessels.
- Know the sound signals and local regulations.
- Use navigational equipment safely and confidently.
4. Manoeuvring
- Be able to handle the boat in all situations:
- Go ahead, astern, turn port, turn starboard, and make a figure 8.
- Anchor, pick up a mooring, and berth/un-berth.
- Control speed and manage engine trim and tilt (if needed).
- Handle the boat in wind, currents, or tides and utilise these where possible.
- Perform emergency stops when required.
5. Rope Work
- Check and stow ropes properly.
- Tie knots quickly and use them safely.
6. Emergency Procedures
- Know what to do if there’s a fire, collision, grounding, flooding, or someone goes overboard.
- Show you can use firefighting equipment, communicate during emergencies, and safely abandon the vessel if needed.
- Put on a life jacket properly.
7. General Requirements
- Know the operational limits of a Coxswain Grade 3 operator.
- Let someone know your departure and arrival plans before every trip.
Practical Exam Preparation Tips
If you want to pass, preparation is key. Here are some suggestions on how you can get ready:
- Learn the Basics Beforehand
- Learn and practice knot tying, navigation, and emergency drills.
- Practise pre-departure checks so you know them inside out.
- Use weather apps to improve your understanding of forecasts.
- Spend Time on the Water
- Practise manoeuvring if you’ve got your own boat. Focus on things like anchoring, berthing, and emergency stops.
- Simulate exam conditions to get comfortable with the tasks.
- Use Industry Resources
- Download operational guidelines and navigation rules from the AMSA website.
- Talk to certified instructors or experienced operators for tips.
- Get Ready for Emergencies
- Understand how to use firefight gear.
- Know the local rescue services and how to contact them.
Checklist for Success
- Run through all pre-departure checks and ensure safety gear is sorted.
- Practise navigating using charts and equipment.
- Get comfortable manoeuvring in different conditions.
- Brush up on tying knots and handling ropes.
- Go over emergency drills and procedures.
- Understand your operational limits.
Build Your Confidence
Success in the Coxswain Grade 3 practical exam comes down to preparation and confidence. By focusing on the essential skills and incorporating practical exam tips into your study routine, you’ll be well-equipped to pass. Need a little extra help? Look into our course here.
