Boating

Vessels used for research and education are classed as commercial vessels.

Minimum qualifications

You'll need these minimum qualifications to operate UQ Science vessels. 

If you already have these qualifications, you still need to register with us and get approval to use UQ vessels.

Master of a vessel under 7.5 metres

Minimum qualifications:

• valid state-issued recreational marine driver's licence
• valid Apply First Aid and CPR certificates
• Short-range Radio Operator Certificate of Proficiency.

Coxswain certificate of competency

You'll need a certificate of competency as a coxswain for:

• vessels 7.5 metres and longer, or
• if you wish to use a vessel for purposes other than research or teaching, for example if you are taking media to observe or film activities.

Recreational marine driver's licence

For information about getting your recreational marine driver's licence, visit the Queensland Government's web pages:

• Boat and personal watercraft licences
• Find a BoatSafe training provider.

Radio operator's licence

If you're a UQ staff member or student, we can invigilate the Short-range Radio Operator Certificate of Proficiency (SROCP) exam on behalf of the Australian Maritime College (AMC).

We'll request your exam papers, ensure your exam is conducted in accordance with AMC guidelines, provide a passport photo if you don’t have one, and submit your completed exam for you.

Most people prepare for this exam with the marine operators handbook and revision questions.

We can also invigilate Long-range Operator Certificate of Proficiency (LROCP) exams.

Book your exam

To book your exam, email central.boating.diving@uq.edu.au.

Allow three weeks to apply for and receive exam materials and another three weeks for certificate processing.

First aid and CPR courses

UQ's registered training organisation, UQ Skills, offers certificates in first aid and CPR.

Alternatively, search for courses offered by your preferred registered training organisation.

Contact us

If you want further help finding a training provider, email central.boating.diving@uq.edu.au.

Check UQ's Policies and Procedures Library to ensure your boating activities comply with mandatory requirements:

• Health and Safety Risk Assessment
• Boating Safety
• Work Off-Campus and Fieldwork
• Health and Safety Incident and Hazard Reporting