To obtain or renew a domestic certificate of competency, you must meet AMSA’s sea service requirements outlined in Marine Order 505. You must record your sea service (sea time) and qualify it.
Sea service evidence is required when applying for most certificates, except for Sailing Master Coastal, Sailing Master Offshore, and Coxswain Grade 3 (unless using a recreational boat licence).
Full details How to Qualify and Record Your Near Coastal Sea Service on AMSAs website here.
Providing Sea Service Evidence
AMSA prefers sea service recorded on an AMSA 771 form but also accepts:
- Onboard records from an AMSA-approved task book
- Letters from supervisors, vessel operators, or owners
- Logbooks issued by maritime safety agencies
If you can’t obtain a signed record, a statutory declaration must accompany your AMSA 771 form.
Click here to view Marine Order 505 (if you are serious about becoming a Skipper, start becoming familiar with Marine Orders!)
Task Books & Counting Sea Service and How to Qualify and Record Your Near Coastal Sea Service
Completing an AMSA task book can signifcantly reduce the required sea service. A working day is at least 8 hours, and shorter shifts can be combined. However, more than 8 hours in a 24-hour period still counts as one day.
Types of Sea Service
Sea service varies based on your certificate:
- Deck Certificates (e.g., Master <24m NC) require navigation, mooring, and anchoring duties.
- Engineering Certificates (e.g., Marine Engine Driver Grade 2 NC) require propulsion and machinery operation.
- Dual Certificates (e.g., Coxswain Grade 1 NC) require combined deck and engineering duties.
Sea Service on Private Yachts
Service on luxury yachts (superyachts) is valid if you were paid and the vessel was operational. Additional proof, like an employment contract or letter from the owner, may be required.
Operating Areas for Coxswain & Master Certificates
- Coxswain Grade 3 NC: Marinas, aquaculture leases, and waters within 1nm of shore.
- Coxswain Grade 2 NC: Sheltered waters and within 5nm of shore.
- Coxswain Grade 1 NC: Inshore waters (up to 15nm offshore).
- Sailing Master Coastal NC: Inshore waters and EEZ tenders.
- Master Inland Waters NC: Non-tidal inland waters.
Read more here about how to obtain your Coxswains 1 qualification.
For full details on sea service requirements and certificate eligibility, visit the AMSA website.