Here, you’ll find clear answers to common questions about our courses, including enrolment, licensing, training options, and communication requirements, such as MMSI and marine radio.
Boating & Marine Training
FAQs
Welcome to the Above & Beyond Boating FAQs!
Click on any topic below to jump to the section that’s relevant to you.
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MMSI & Marine Radio
Learn how to apply for an MMSI, understand marine radio licensing requirements, and ensure you're equipped for safe and legal communication on the water.
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Q: Are the VHF (SROCP) and HF, MF & HF (LROCP) radio courses internationally recognised for marine radio operators?
A: Yes- the SROCP and LROCP certificates are issued by the Australian Office of Maritime Communications and are internationally recognised. They're accepted for both recreational and commercial boating. Either qualification can also be used when applying for an MMSI number.
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Q. How can I get an MMSI for my boat?
In Australia, the Australian Maritime Safety Authority (AMSA) issues Maritime Mobile Service Identity (MMSI) numbers. You must hold a marine radio certificate: the SROCP covers VHF radios and AIS; the LROCP covers VHF, AIS, and MF/HF radios. Either qualification can be used when applying. The MMSI is then programmed into your vessel’s fixed DSC/AIS equipment.
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Q: How long does it take for a new MMSI to be issued or an existing one to be transferred once I have my marine radio certificate (SROCP/LROCP)?
A: AMSA will usually issue or transfer an MMSI within 24 hours of receiving your application. We walk you through the process as part of both our SROCP and LROCP courses, so you’ll know exactly what to do once you’ve completed your assessment.
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Q: I already have a marine radio qualification. Do I need to resit the assessment?
A: If your qualification was issued before Digital Selective Calling (DSC) became standard for marine radios, you may need to update it before applying for an MMSI number. You can still use the course to refresh your knowledge. AMSA will confirm whether your current qualification meets the requirements for MMSI registration.
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Q: I have an older marine radio qualification, such as the ROCP, RROCP, or SRC (pre-2014). Do I need to upgrade it to apply for an MMSI?
A: If your qualification was issued before Digital Selective Calling (DSC) became standard for marine radios, you may need to upgrade it to apply for an MMSI. AMSA can confirm whether your existing qualification meets their current requirements.
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Q: Is a marine radio licence the same as a marine radio qualification?
A: The terms are often used interchangeably, but there’s a difference. You don’t need a licence to own or install a VHF marine radio in Australia – it's covered by a Class Licence. However, to operate a VHF or MF/HF radio, you must hold an operator qualification – the SROCP (for VHF) or LROCP (for VHF/MF/HF). An MF/HF radio does require an apparatus licence, which can only be issued once you have the LROCP.
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Q: What is the format of my marine radio certificate (SROCP/LROCP)?
A: The OMC posts a hard copy plastic card, similar in style to a driver’s licence, to your nominated address, including international locations. You can also request a digital version by email, which is typically sent on the same day the hard copy is issued.
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Q: How long does it take to receive my SROCP or LROCP after passing the assessment?
A: The Office of Maritime Communications (OMC) in Tasmania can take up to 15 working days to issue your certificate after you pass the assessment. Tasmanian public holidays aren’t counted as working days, so processing may take a little longer around those times. If you request a digital copy, it’s usually emailed the same day the hard copy is posted and can be used to progress applications for commercial qualifications or MMSI numbers.
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Q: Do I need to be an Australian citizen to enrol in the SROCP or LROCP course and assessment?
A: No, there is no citizenship requirement to enrol in the course, complete the assessment, or be issued an SROCP or LROCP certificate. The Office of Maritime Communications (OMC) will post the hard copy certificate anywhere in the world at no additional cost. You also have the option to request a soft copy of the certificate during the assessment process, which can be helpful if you'd prefer not to wait for the hard copy to arrive by mail.
Enrolment, Access & Support
Find out how to enrol, when you'll get access to your course, and what support is available to help you throughout your learning journey.
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Q: Can I give a boating course as a gift?
Yes! The gift certificate is emailed to you instantly after purchase — nothing is sent to the recipient until you choose to give it to them. Courses include the Online Skipper course, both Marine Radio courses, our RYA Day Skipper Shorebased, RYA Yachtmaster Theory, the Safety & Sea Survival e-learning and the Complete Skipper Course. Prices range from $135 to $895 AUD.
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Q: How long does it take to receive course access once I enrol?
A: Your course access is emailed immediately after you enrol. If your course includes hard copy supporting materials, we send them by Express Post (within Australia or internationally) within one business day.
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Q: How long do I have access to the course and support?
A: For all courses and packages – except the Sea Survival e-learning – we provide lifetime access to the course content and 12 months of course support. Access to the Sea Survival e-learning is limited to 12 months, as required by Australian Sailing
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Q: What support is included with the e-learning courses?
A: All our e-learning courses include 12 months of support. You can ask questions directly through the chat function within the course, making it easy to keep everything in one place for future reference. We're also available by email, offering same-day support from your course instructor, seven days a week.
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Q: What are the benefits of doing a boating course through e-learning with Above & Beyond Boating?
A: Our e-learning courses are designed to be flexible, structured, and highly practical. You get unlimited access to course content, 12 months of personalised support, and the ability to study at your own pace. With clear video-based lessons, interactive exercises, and exceptionally current training materials, you can build lasting skills and revisit key topics whenever you need.
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Q: Can I complete my Day Skipper Course online?
A: Yes – the RYA Day Skipper Shorebased Course is available as a fully online program through Above & Beyond Boating. You’ll work through structured lessons covering navigation, safety, weather, passage planning, and more – with unlimited access and 12 months of support. It's the ideal preparation for taking on more responsibility on board or progressing to practical training.
Course Selection & Training
Unsure which course is right for you? This section helps you choose the best training option based on your experience, goals, and boating interests.
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Q: What are the best online marine navigation courses available to beginners in Australia?
The best online marine navigation course will depend on your current experience and what you want to achieve. If you're completely new to navigation, the RYA Essential Navigation & Seamanship Course is a great place to start, covering the fundamentals of navigation, safety and seamanship. If you already have some boating experience and want more comprehensive navigation and passage planning skills, the RYA Day Skipper online course is the next step.
Both courses can be completed online with Above & Beyond Boating in Australia, allowing you to start at the level that best suits your current knowledge and boating goals.
Both courses can be completed online with Above & Beyond Boating in Australia, allowing you to start at the level that best suits your current knowledge and boating goals.
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Q: Can I become a competent crew with an online course?
A: Yes. We have a perfect course for this. Whether you're new to boating, getting back into it, or looking to expand your skills, this course simplifies concepts and demystifies boating terminology. It'll give you a head start, helping you feel at ease from the moment you step on board and ready to embrace every day on the water.
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Q: How do I learn practical boat handling skills through this online course?
A: The Online Skipper Course is designed to develop your boat handling skills through structured, video-based lessons supported by real-world scenarios and review questions. You’ll learn how to break down specific skills, put them into practice in a controlled way, then refer back to the course to debrief and confirm you're applying them correctly.
This approach builds lasting, transferable skills that apply across different vessels, locations, and crew configurations. It also helps you get the most out of having experienced people onboard — even if they’re not instructors — as the core training is already built into the course.
This approach builds lasting, transferable skills that apply across different vessels, locations, and crew configurations. It also helps you get the most out of having experienced people onboard — even if they’re not instructors — as the core training is already built into the course.
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Q: Can I learn to sail online?
A: Yes. Our e-learning courses give you a clear overview of sailing and manoeuvring—what's happening, why, and what the person in charge expects. You'll understand the controls, terminology, and expectations. It puts you in control of your learning, so once you're on a boat, you're ready to be an active participant in sailing the boat.
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Q: Can I complete the RYA Day Skipper Course entirely online, or do I need practical sea time?
A: The RYA Day Skipper Shorebased Course can be completed entirely online and does not require any practical sea time.
Once you have your Day Skipper Shorebased certificate, you can progress to the second step, a short practical assessment for experienced skippers or a 5-day RYA Day Skipper Practical Course. While we don't offer the practical assessment/course ourselves, we're happy to guide you to an RYA practical training centre to help with this part of your certification when you reach this step.
Once you have your Day Skipper Shorebased certificate, you can progress to the second step, a short practical assessment for experienced skippers or a 5-day RYA Day Skipper Practical Course. While we don't offer the practical assessment/course ourselves, we're happy to guide you to an RYA practical training centre to help with this part of your certification when you reach this step.
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Q: I have a VHF radio and an MF/HF radio onboard. Which marine radio course should I take?
A: You’ll need to complete the LROCP course. This qualification covers the use of both VHF and MF/HF radios, so it’s the appropriate option for your equipment. The SROCP only covers VHF and wouldn’t meet the legal requirements for operating MF/HF radios.
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Q. I’m chartering a boat and have been told I need a marine radio licence. Will an Australian licence be recognised by the charter company outside of Australia?
A: Holding the SROCP or LROCP meets the marine radio licence requirements for many purposes, including chartering a boat. If you’ll be using an International Certificate of Competence (ICC), a VHF qualification is also required – the SROCP is ideal for this. The LROCP is only needed if the vessel has an MF/HF radio onboard, which is typically limited to offshore racing or game fishing charters.
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Q: How can I learn to sail online and record my boating experience on my own or a chartered boat?
A: The Online Skipper Course is designed to build your sailing knowledge and confidence at your own pace. You’ll learn about setting and using sails, along with key safety and seamanship skills, through interactive lessons and videos. The course also includes a personal logbook, allowing you to record your time on the water and track your progress as you gain experience.
Buying or Upgrading Your Boat
Buying or upgrading a boat is a big topic, and we cover it extensively throughout our courses. We’ve also created complementary Boating Insights podcast episodes and a dedicated section on ABB TV where we explore many more questions to help you plan your next step with confidence.
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How do I choose a boat suitable for off-grid living?
A: Start by thinking about how long you plan to stay away from shore and what level of independence you want. Look for boats with reliable power generation systems (such as solar, wind, or alternator), ample water and fuel storage, and efficient refrigeration.
Consider weight distribution, battery capacity, and your comfort in managing onboard systems — the more self-sufficient the setup, the more maintenance and skill it requires. If you’re planning extended cruising or ocean passages, you can find details about the Blue Water Skipper Package on this link >
Consider weight distribution, battery capacity, and your comfort in managing onboard systems — the more self-sufficient the setup, the more maintenance and skill it requires. If you’re planning extended cruising or ocean passages, you can find details about the Blue Water Skipper Package on this link >
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Q: What qualifications do I need to skipper my boat?
A: In some countries, such as those in Europe, you may require a qualification like the International Certificate of Competence (ICC). You can read more about the ICC and how to obtain it on this link >
On any vessel fitted with a marine VHF radio, you must hold a marine radio operator’s certificate of proficiency (SROCP).
In Australia, there are state-based boat licences, and the rules for when they’re required are set by each state’s maritime authority. To demonstrate your education to insurers — and to ensure you’ve learned how to skipper and maintain your vessel — the Complete Skipper Course is the ideal course package for this.
On any vessel fitted with a marine VHF radio, you must hold a marine radio operator’s certificate of proficiency (SROCP).
In Australia, there are state-based boat licences, and the rules for when they’re required are set by each state’s maritime authority. To demonstrate your education to insurers — and to ensure you’ve learned how to skipper and maintain your vessel — the Complete Skipper Course is the ideal course package for this.
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Q: Do I need a professional skipper on my new boat?
A: If you’re taking delivery of a new or larger vessel, a professional skipper can assist with the initial passage, training, and familiarisation. Whether it’s essential depends on your confidence, experience, and the size of the boat.
While you’re researching or waiting for delivery, completing structured online courses is a great way to prepare for familiarisation and a successful start. Your insurance company will also advise if they require a certain level of experience for your planned voyages, which may include a professional skipper.
While you’re researching or waiting for delivery, completing structured online courses is a great way to prepare for familiarisation and a successful start. Your insurance company will also advise if they require a certain level of experience for your planned voyages, which may include a professional skipper.
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Q: If I buy a boat overseas, can I register it in Australia?
A: Yes, Australian citizens and residents can register an overseas-purchased vessel in Australia if it meets local compliance standards. You’ll need to provide documentation such as proof of ownership, tonnage measurements, and import details. If you plan to cruise internationally, you may also need to register under the Australian Shipping Register rather than a state registry.
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Q: Should I get a survey for a previously owned boat?
A: Absolutely. A pre-purchase survey helps identify structural or mechanical issues and ensures the vessel meets safety standards. Even for smaller or well-maintained boats, a qualified marine surveyor’s inspection is a worthwhile safeguard before finalising the purchase.
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Q: My new boat includes a handover — should I complete any training to get the most from it?
A: Yes. A handover shows how systems operate, but structured training helps you use them safely and effectively in real-world conditions. Learning to navigate, manage power systems, and handle emergencies will help you make the most of your new boat and build confidence from day one. The Complete Skipper Powerboating Course and the Complete Skipper Sailing Course are ideal options to prepare you as a skipper and first mate.
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Q: I’m transferring from power to sail, sail to power, monohull to multihull, or multihull to monohull — what’s the best step?
A: The Online Skipper Course takes you through the skills needed across different types of boats, helping you identify how to transfer your existing experience into new vessels. It bridges the gap between platforms and ensures you understand how handling, balance, and systems differ, so you can approach your next boat with confidence.
Yachtmaster
Unsure which course is right for you? This section helps you choose the best training option based on your experience, goals, and boating interests.
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Q: Are there sea time prerequisites to sit an RYA Yachtmaster Coastal or Offshore exam?
A: Yes – all sea time must be logged and completed within 10 years of the exam. You’ll need to meet requirements for days onboard, night hours, skippered passages, and offshore miles. You must also have passed the RYA Coastal Skipper and Yachtmaster Theory Course, and hold a marine VHF radio certificate (SROCP) and a valid first aid qualification at the time of your practical exam.
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Q: I want to become a Yachtmaster. How do I get started?
A: A great starting point is the RYA Coastal Skipper and Yachtmaster Theory Course, which builds advanced skills in navigation, seamanship, passage planning, collision avoidance, and offshore safety. This course is a key requirement for progressing towards the RYA Coastal Skipper and RYA Yachtmaster Coastal or Offshore certificates.
Once you’ve completed the theory course, you can move on to practical training and assessments through an RYA practical training centre, whether for sail or motor vessels. You can explore the RYA Coastal Skipper and Yachtmaster Theory Course details and enrolment options here.
Once you’ve completed the theory course, you can move on to practical training and assessments through an RYA practical training centre, whether for sail or motor vessels. You can explore the RYA Coastal Skipper and Yachtmaster Theory Course details and enrolment options here.
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Q: What knowledge do I need before starting the RYA Coastal Skipper and Yachtmaster Theory Course?
A: The course assumes knowledge at the level of the RYA Day Skipper Shorebased Course. This is often more advanced than expected and includes:
These skills are thoroughly covered in our RYA Day Skipper Shorebased Course, and we strongly recommend completing it first to be well prepared for the Yachtmaster Theory level.
- Making navigation decisions using tidal height predictions and charted depths
- Calculating courses to steer, factoring in tide, leeway, variation, and wind
- Using charts to confirm GPS positions and apply dead reckoning techniques
- Planning coastal passages with or without electronic navigation aids
- Reading synoptic charts and understanding weather systems behind forecasts
These skills are thoroughly covered in our RYA Day Skipper Shorebased Course, and we strongly recommend completing it first to be well prepared for the Yachtmaster Theory level.
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Q: I’m planning blue water cruising adventures – which course should I start with?
A: The Blue Water Skipper Course prepares you for offshore and ocean passages, helping you develop the skills to manage longer voyages with confidence. You’ll cover advanced navigation, offshore communication, and passage planning, with a focus on safety and self-reliance at sea—ideal preparation before heading offshore or joining an ocean rally.
This is an advanced course and assumes you are already comfortable navigating to the RYA Day Skipper Shorebased level, which should be completed first.
This is an advanced course and assumes you are already comfortable navigating to the RYA Day Skipper Shorebased level, which should be completed first.
International Certificate of Competence (ICC)
Get answers about internationally recognised boating licences, certification pathways, and how our training aligns with national and international standards.
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Q: How do I apply for an International Certificate of Competence (ICC) after completing the RYA Day Skipper Shorebased Course?
A: The RYA Day Skipper Shorebased Course covers the prerequisite theory component for both the ICC and the Day Skipper Practical Course. To obtain an ICC, you must also demonstrate practical competence. Experienced skippers can complete a direct assessment (around 4 hours, with up to two people assessed at a time) at one of the RYA training centres in 42 countries. If you don’t yet have the required experience, you’ll need to complete the RYA Day Skipper Practical Course, typically held over five days or three weekends.
The ICC is issued by the RYA on application, and you’ll need to provide evidence of either a successful direct assessment or your Day Skipper Practical completion certificate.
The ICC is issued by the RYA on application, and you’ll need to provide evidence of either a successful direct assessment or your Day Skipper Practical completion certificate.
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Q: Can my International Certificate of Competence (ICC) be fast-tracked?
A: Yes – when applying through the RYA, you can pay an additional fee for fast-track processing, which is usually completed within 48 hours. The ICC is issued as a paper certificate and sent to your postal address. The RYA does not issue digital versions of the ICC.
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Q: Do I need an International Certificate of Competence (ICC) to charter a boat in Croatia?
A: No – you can legally skipper a charter boat in Croatia with the RYA Day Skipper Shorebased Certificate and a VHF radio operator’s certificate, without needing an ICC. Our Complete Skipper Course is the ideal preparation – it combines both the RYA Day Skipper Shorebased and VHF Radio Courses into one comprehensive, structured online training package.
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Q: I have my boat licence and plenty of powerboat experience – which course will help me build sailing expertise for chartering?
A: The Complete Skipper Course for Sailors bridges the gap between power and sail. You’ll learn how to handle sailing monohulls and multihulls under power and sail, plan passages, and make confident decisions as skipper. It combines practical seamanship with detailed navigation and safety training, preparing you for bareboat chartering or skippering your own sailing boat.
Safety and Sea Survival Certificate (SSSC)
Learn about the Safety and Sea Survival Course, how the e-learning is delivered, and what’s required to complete your certificate.
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Q: My Safety and Sea Survival Certificate (SSSC) has expired. Can I revalidate with just the e-learning course?
A: No – after completing the e-learning and passing the assessment, you still need to attend a wet drill at any Australian Sailing-accredited centre. If your certificate expired less than 2 years ago, this qualifies as a revalidation. If it’s been more than 2 years, you’ll need to complete the full course, which uses the same e-learning and wet drill.
When booking the wet drill, let the centre know whether you're attending for revalidation or the full course. The flare drill is optional for revalidation but required for the full course.
When booking the wet drill, let the centre know whether you're attending for revalidation or the full course. The flare drill is optional for revalidation but required for the full course.
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Q: How long do I have to complete the practical wet drill after finishing the Sea Survival e-learning course and assessment?
A: If you want to be issued with a new or revalidated Australian Sailing Safety and Sea Survival Certificate, you must complete a practical wet drill within 12 months of passing the online assessment. If you do not require the Australian Sailing certificate, attending a wet drill is not mandatory.
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Q: Is there an assessment at the end of the Safety and Sea Survival e-learning course?
A: Yes – once you’ve finished studying the course, you’ll complete a multiple-choice assessment. To pass, you need to answer 20 out of 25 questions correctly within 30 minutes. You have two attempts to pass, and there are unlimited practice assessments available to help you prepare.
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Q: How does the Sea Survival e-learning course work, and how long is the practical component?
A: Once you enrol in the Sea Survival e-learning course, you’ll have 12 months to complete the online training and assessment. After passing the online assessment, you’ll have a further 12 months to book and complete the practical wet drill to qualify for the full Australian Sailing Safety and Sea Survival Certificate (SSSC).
The practical wet drill typically runs for around 4–5 hours.
The practical wet drill typically runs for around 4–5 hours.
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Q: When should I take a sea survival course?
A: The best time to prepare is before you're faced with an emergency. Whether you're planning an offshore passage or want to improve safety for coastal cruising, this course is a critical step. Don’t wait until a survival situation to realise you're underprepared.
Above & Beyond Boating’s Sea Survival Course offers flexible, interactive e-learning supported by exceptionally current materials.
Above & Beyond Boating’s Sea Survival Course offers flexible, interactive e-learning supported by exceptionally current materials.
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