Maritime Rules Part 91

Current version of Part 91

This rule applies:

• Everywhere in New Zealand waters.

Part 91 continues the basic navigation safety rules contained in the Water Recreation Regulations, 1974, with some modifications and additions to bring the requirements up-to-date with modern boating conditions and safety expectations.

Part 91 requires carriage of personal flotation devices (buoyancy aids designed to be worn on the body) on board recreational craft. This includes pleasure craft and manually powered craft used in commercial operations eg: sea kayak rentals.

Wearing of devices on board recreational craft is required in circumstances of heightened danger or risk.

Certain recreational craft don’t have to carry personal flotation devices eg: sailboard where the sailor wears a wet suit, and persons training or participating in a sporting event where there’s a support vessel handy.

The rules incorporate standard for personal floatation devices, including specialist devices used in paddle craft applications.

History of Part 91