MAR20324 Coxswain Grade 1 Near Coastal

Frequently Asked Questions

• What is a Coxswain Grade 1 Near Coastal?

  It’s your entry-level commercial skipper ticket, and the qualification is a Certificate II in Maritime Operations. It lets you take charge of smaller commercial vessels in the near coastal zone. For a lot of people it’s the first real step into a paid career on the water, in fishing, tourism, marine services and more.

• What vessels can I skipper with a Coxswain ticket?

  A Coxswain Grade 1 Near Coastal lets you command smaller commercial vessels within the near coastal area. The exact length and operating limits are set by AMSA and listed on the course page. If you’re not sure it covers the work you have in mind, ask us and we’ll confirm it before you enrol.

• What are the entry requirements for the Coxswain course?

  There’s a minimum age, and you’ll complete a set amount of sea service as part of the qualification. You don’t need a higher ticket first, this is an entry-level skipper qualification. We’ll walk you through the sea service and the paperwork so nothing holds you up.

• How long does the Coxswain course take and what does it cost?

  Course length depends on the format and your experience, with a mix of theory and practical assessment on the water. Current dates, duration and fees are on the course page, and subsidised training may be available if you’re eligible.

• What’s the difference between a Coxswain and a Master?

  A Coxswain Grade 1 is the entry-level skipper ticket for smaller vessels near coastal. A Master ticket, like Master up to 24 metres, lets you command larger vessels and usually needs more sea service and study. Many skippers start with their Coxswain, work at sea, then step up to a Master.

• What can I do after my Coxswain?

  Plenty of skippers use the Coxswain as their base, then move up to Master up to 24 metres (Master 5) or into a Certificate III in Maritime Operations. It builds real sea time and experience that count towards the next ticket.

• Are your courses nationally recognised?

  Yes. We’re a Registered Training Organisation, RTO 90440. Your qualification is nationally recognised under the Australian Qualifications Framework. It comes from the MAR Maritime Training Package and is cited by AMSA under Marine Order 505. So the ticket you earn with us is recognised by employers and regulators right across Australia.

• Do you offer government-subsidised or funded training?

  Yes. Eligible students can train through the NSW Smart and Skilled program. It can cut your course fees, and for some qualifications it covers most of the cost. Whether you qualify depends on your residency, age and any training you’ve done before. Want to check? Visit our Smart and Skilled page or give us a call and we’ll confirm it for you.

• How do I enrol in a course?

  Pick your course from the Courses page and hit Book Now. You’ll finish your enrolment and payment online in a few minutes. Prefer to talk it through first? Call us on 1300 302 123 and we’ll help you choose the right course. Once you’re booked, we’ll send you everything you need to get started.