Questions and Answers

	Is it necessary to be a member of a recognised Harbour club to operate a boat in Durban Harbour?
	Yes.
	How many clubs do I have to choose from?
	There are currently about 19 clubs to choose from, bearing in mind not all clubs have premises in the harbour.
	Do I need all the Safety Equipment as I only have a small craft?
	Yes, and all Safety Equipment for the category for which the craft is registered must be on board at all times.
	Can I have one large Fire Extinguisher instead of two 1.5Kg Extinguisher?
	No. If you have one engine you require one 1.5Kg Dry Powder Extinguisher , and in the case of two motors 2 extinguishers, a large extinguisher is not easy to handle on a small craft.
	Do I stll require 2 paddles or oars if I have 2 motors?
	Yes. Contaminated fuel can cause both motors to fail.
	What size craft is allowed to exit the harbour?
	4.8 Metres with wetdeck and 2 motors and has undergone the necessary survey.
	If I purchase a boat that has been registered for the year can I use it on the current license?
	No. Licenses are not transferable.
	How important is it to log out?
	It is very important that you log out and the Expected Time of Arrival (ETA)is logged, and the area where you will be. In the event of you being reported overdue this is the first place from where we will gather information.
	Can anyone ride on the bow of a boat?
	International regulation: All passengers or crew to be seated within the vessel and no bow riding is allowed. This is therefore a punishable offence.
	When must lifejackets be worn?
	Lifejackets must be worn at all times by children under the age of twelve and non swimmers, or at any time the skipper may find it necessary.
	Who may operate a power boat?
	No person under the age of sixteen may operate a power driven craft, unless taking part in a controlled event.
	What is a C.O.F.?
	All craft from the 1st August 2008 have to be in posession of a C.O.F. It is a Certificate of Fitness which proves that the craft has passed with its required Safety Equipment for the category inspected.
	What is a C.O.C.?
	A Certificate of Competence which all skippers require. All skippers must be in posession of this before 1st August 2008.
	How many levels of C.O.C. are there?
	Three levels. Level 1 is for dams, rivers and Harbours. Level 2 for 15 Nautical miles out to sea, day light hours only. Level 3 for coastal waters.
	Do Category B and C craft have to carry an EPIRB?
	No. S.A.M.S.A. have issued an extension until 31st March 2008. This regulation is still in force. A copy of the gazette is available from our website under documents (epirb carriage mn4 2007.pdf)
	When do the new regulations for Inland Waters come into effect?
	Government Gazette No. 30151 of 8th August 2007 include all boating inland waters and offshore. One years grace has been given for all to comply.
	Are there many changes in the 2007 Regulations?
	Not too many, however a very important one, is that all power boats must have their kill switches attached to the skipper when the craft is making way.
	What is the difference between a life Jacket and a PFD. (Personal Floatation Device)?
	A life Jacket is marked SABS 146/1979 and may be carried ready at hand. A Personal Floatation Device or PFD is marked SABS 1417/1987 and must be worn at all times.
	On Inland waters when should Life Jackets be worn?
	A sensible skipper would wear a life jacket at all times, and must make his crew do the same. With the high density of traffic on Inland Waters with so many untrained operators this should be a must. REMEMBER AS SKIPPER, YOU ARE RESPONSIBLE!
	If I tow a skier or water snake, can I still carry that amount of persons my boat is registered for?
	No. If your craft is registered to carry 6 persons this will include all those being towed.
	Is it necessary for a water-skier to wear a PFD if he/she wears a wetsuit?
	A wet suit will protect you against the sun, and possibly protect you in the case of a fall, BUT it will not keep you afloat as it does not contain any buoyancy. A smart skipper would make his skier wear a bright coloured life jacket and possibly even a water polo cap. The skier should also be taught if he falls in the water to relax in the life jacket and raise an arm to be as visible as possible.
	My Life Jackets are new but are looking shabby?
	When returning from a day out, remove life-jackets from boat, hang up, out of sunlight in a well ventulated area and wash with tap water. If possible leave hanging till next trip, and you will get many years use from them. NEVER store lifejackets wet on top of each other as they will not last.