AMSA Coxswain Grade 3

The AMSA Coxswain Grade 3 can operate according to the following scope. 

• Command and operate the engines of a vessel less than 12 in length with outboard engine propulsion less than 250 kW, or inboard engines less than 100 kilowatts.
• Carrying no more than 6 persons, including crew and master
• In daylight hours only, if carrying passengers.
• In smooth or inshore waters within one nautical mile of the shore.
• Within the EEZ, if operating a tender less than one nautical mile from the parent vessel. 
• Command and operate the engines of a vessel less than 12 metres long with propulsion power for inboard or outboard engines of up to 500 kW when towing people in daylight hours and waters approved for the activity by a state authority (eg waterskiing or wakeboarding)

Course programme

There are various ways to meet the requirements for the AMSA Coxswain Grade 3 certification. 

The Flying Fish training pathway has been chosen because it includes plenty of practical, on-water training and also includes the RYA Powerboat Level 2 certification, which is recognised internationally in its own right. 

The course includes the following training modules 

• Day 1  - Workplace approved Marine First Aid
• Days 2 and 3 - RYA Powerboat Level 2 certificate 

For full details of the course content for each training unit, please refer to the FAQ section below. 

Equipment and instructors 

The course will be taught by friendly, experienced instructors in our waterside classroom and onboard our high-speed, rigid inflatable rescue craft.

Marine First Aid is a classroom-based course, but we strive to incorporate as much practical input as possible.  

During the powerboat practical, you will spend the first day learning how to safely drive the boats and the second day developing basic pilotage skills, which you will then use to execute a short passage.

We operate in small groups, according to strict teaching ratios, to ensure all participants have plenty of time to be in the driver's seat and at the helm. 

Training location

Theory training is conducted in our well-equipped, waterside classroom at Middle Harbour Yacht Club.

For the practical part of the course, Sydney Harbour is our classroom.

The variety of conditions and busy waterways provide an outstanding training environment. 

Once you have completed the course with us you will need get a certificate of medical fitness and then you can apply to AMSA to get your Coxswain grade 3 certification.

The course is open to anyone aged 16 and over. It’s suitable for both complete beginners and experienced boaters seeking a basic commercial qualification.

To be eligible for a Coxswain Grade 3 Near Coastal Certificate, after completing this course, you will also need to:

• Be able to speak and understand English, including reading written materials
• Be medically fit for the duties involved, including meeting the eyesight requirement

• Booking and course information
• We recommend booking early, as spaces are limited and courses fill quickly.
• You can view our full Terms and Conditions online.
• The course is held at our training base in Sydney, with practical sessions on Sydney Harbour using our purpose-built RIBs.
• All training materials and safety equipment are provided. Please bring a valid photo ID, wear comfortable clothing suitable for the weather, and soft-soled shoes.
• What does the course include, and do I need experience?
• The AMSA Coxswain Grade 3 course is suitable for anyone aged 16 and over, whether you're a complete beginner or an experienced boatie seeking a basic commercial qualification.
• The course includes classroom theory, hands-on boat handling, seamanship, navigation, and safety drills.
• You will complete the RYA Powerboat Level 2 certificate, an internationally recognised qualification often accepted for commercial use overseas.
• A one-day Marine First Aid course is also included as part of the training package.
• What are the eligibility requirements?
• To apply for the Coxswain Grade 3 certificate with AMSA, you must:
  • Be at least 16 years old
  • Successfully complete this approved training course
  • Be medically fit for the duties involved, including eyesight standards
  • Be able to speak and understand English, including reading safety documents
• What if I need help or don't pass the practical assessment?
• The course includes thorough practical and theory preparation to build your confidence and skills.
• If you need extra help or revision, we provide support and options to repeat assessments where needed.
• How do I get my AMSA Coxswain Grade 3 qualification once I have completed this course?
• After successfully completing the course, you must apply to AMSA to be issued with your Coxswain Grade 3 Near Coastal Certificate.
• You will need to:
  • Submit your RYA certificate and First Aid certificate from Flying Fish
  • Complete a medical self-assessment or medical examination
• For full application details, visit the official AMSA website:
  AMSA Coxswain Grade 3 Near Coastal – Application Guide
• What can I do with a Coxswain Grade 3 Near Coastal?
• With a Coxswain Grade 3 certificate, you can operate a small commercial vessel (less than 12 metres) in sheltered waters or within 1 nautical mile of shore.
• This includes operating support boats, tenders, or safety craft, taking guests on short commercial trips, or driving boats in construction or tourism settings.
• It's ideal for work in marinas, water-based events, dive support, or transport roles where limited coastal operations are permitted.
• Do I need a Marine Radio Operator’s Certificate?
• The Marine Radio Operator’s Certificate is not required to obtain your AMSA Coxswain Grade 3 qualification. However, by law, you must hold a Marine Radio Operator’s Certificate to legally operate a VHF or HF marine radio in Australia.
• As radio operation is part of daily duties on most vessels, we strongly recommend obtaining your ACMA-approved radio certificate (e.g. MROVCP or MROCP) during or after the course.