Boating basics

Learn about your responsibilities, the essential gear you need, boat maintenance, avoiding accidents and more.

Manage the risks that come with being out on the water

a man's hands doing up a lifejacket for a small child

Carry essential safety gear

Make sure you have all the key safety equipment on board.

Check and maintain your gear

Do regular checks and maintenance of onboard equipment.

Check and maintain your boat

Take time to do regular checks and maintenance on your boat.

One final check before you go

Get into the habit of doing a final check before you head out.

 

Your responsibilities as a skipper

Every type of boat must have a skipper

A skipper is legally responsible for:

  • the safety of the boat
  • all the people who are on board

Read about skipper responsibilities

 

Sharing the water with others

When out on the water, every skipper must:

Related information:

Safer Boating Guide

This booklet gives you essential information for an enjoyable and safe time on the water.

[PDF: 3.87MB, 24 pages]

Download

Boating courses

Coastguard offers a range of courses for kayakers, skippers, radio operators and more.

See all courses