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Boating in Singapore
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
A Pleasure Craft is basically any craft which is intended for use within the port exclusively for sport or pleasure purposes, but does not include any craft which is used to carry passengers on sightseeing tours within the port for which each such passenger is charged a separate and distinct fare. All pleasure craft to be used in Singapore port waters must be licensed.
Pleasure craft licensed with MPA shall be prefixed with the following letters:
• SZ – in the case of a pleasure craft for private use; and
• SZH – in the case of a pleasure craft for commercial use
The most visited amongst all of Southern Islands by boaters in Singapore is surely Pulau Seringit (Lazarus & St John) as well as Pulau Hantu, Sister Island. These are beautiful islands and offer quiet lagoons that boaters can come to shore and have a great picnic along the shorelines.
Just a short distance beyond Pula Hantu is a group of islands like Pulau Sudong, Pawai, Salu & Senang which when the military does not have training like during the weekends, are accessible to boaters because of their locations and restrictions, fishing and diving are actually great here and dolphins are sighted commonly in this vicinity during certain period of the months.
Jetski is the brand name of a personal watercraft manufactured by Kawasaki, a Japanese company. The term is often used generically to refer to any type of personal watercraft used mainly for recreation, and it is also used as a verb to describe the use of any type of PWC. A runabout style PWC typically carries 1–3 people seated in a configuration like a typical bicycle or motorcycle.
This is a course that you have to take before you can apply for your exam to obtain your licence (issued by the Port Master) to drive any sort of pleasure craft that has a motor onboard (with SZ or SZH licence prefixes) within Singapore port limits. Learn all about navigating Singapore’s labyrinth of flukes and channels in complete safety. Charts, navigation buoys, and rules of the road are just a small part of it!
In the event of any incidents, such as collisions, damages to craft, any injuries or any loss of life, the owner, master or the person in charge of the craft must report such incidents to the Port Master within 48 hours of the incident.
Please contact Marine Safety at Tel: 6325 2488 (tel:6325 2488)/ 6325 2489.(tel:6325 2488)
The Port Operations Control Centre (POCC), which is part of the MPA, is the operational headquarters for a maritime search and rescue region (SRR) that covers both the island of Singapore and over 1 million square kilometres of the South China Sea (see Singapore SRR map in Annex III).
Operating 24 hours, the POCC operates a shore-based Global Maritime Distress and Safety System (GMDSS) facility to monitor distress alerts and calls from ships, and co-ordinate SAR operations. It also disseminates Maritime Safety Information (MSI) through the VHF, NAVTEX and SafetyNET systems.
24-HOUR EMERGENCY CONTACT
VHF CHANNEL: 16
VTS WORKING CHNNELS: 7, 10, 14, and 73
TEL: (+65) 6226 5539 (tel:6226 5539)or (+65) 6325 2493(tel:6325 2493)
FAX: +65 6227 9971
TELEX: 20021
EMAIL: pocc@mpa.gov.sg(mailto:pocc@mpa.gov.sg)
Singapore POCC’s designated MMSI number is 005630002.
MSI Broadcast
Routine broadcast of navigational warnings, weather bulletin and other information related to safety of navigation is conducted via:
VHF Channel 9
Timing of broadcast: Once every two hours commencing from 0100h (UTC)
NAVTEX
POCC transmitter identification character is “C”.
• Timing of broadcast: 0020–0030h; 0420–0430h; 0820–0830h; 1220–1230h; 1620–1630h and 2020–2030h (UTC).
• The weather bulletin is broadcast twice daily at 0020h and 1220h (UTC).
SafetyNET
Broadcast is conducted on an ad hoc basis.
For ships that operate beyond the range of the Singapore SRR, relevant contacts for use in emergency should be obtained before proceeding.
VHF REPORTING
The VHF radiotelephone reporting procedures for SRS registered pleasure craft manoeuvring in port shall apply to:
vessels of 300 gross tons and above
vessels of 30 metres or more in length
vessels of 30 metres or more in height
All reports made to the designated control stations must be in English. Timings shall be given in local time following the 24-hour standard format.
Vessels need to use the appropriate VHF channels when reporting to the relevant shore stations.
The communication channels listed here are for MPA and other agencies.
Owners of pleasure craft are required to store their craft at established boatels, yacht clubs, marinas or designated pleasure craft mooring sites. Confirmation letter of mooring from such boatel, yacht club or marina is to be submitted at the time of application.
Owners whose craft are found moored illegally will be prosecuted.
PPCDL Course is split into 3 parts. They are:
PPCDL Course - This is a 2 day course conducted at one of the appointed PPCDL & APPCDL Training Centers in Singapore. The course is split into elearning, theory (Virtual or Classroom) and practical sessions. A PPCDL certificate will be issued to trainees who have completed the course. You will need the PPCDL certificate to apply for your theory test.
Theory test - This is a test conducted at the Singapore Martitime Academy located in Singapore Polytechnic's premises. You need to get at least 26 or more out of 30 questions correct to pass the test. The pre-requisite for this test is the completion certificate from the PPCDL course and also an eye sight test.
Practical exam - This is a practical examination conducted at Poly Marina. The pre-requisite for this exam is the certificate of passing of the theory test.
For more information on the PPCDL entry requirements and examinations, check out Singapore Maritime Academy.(https://www.sp.edu.sg/sma/courses/other-courses/powered-pleasure-craft-driving-licence-(ppcdl))
There isn’t any official definition or boundaries of the Southern Islands, but it is a common consensus that the Southern Islands consists of these 8 main islands:
▪ Sentosa Island
▪ Saint John’s Island
▪ Lazarus Island
▪ Seringat Island
▪ Kusu Island
▪ Sisters’ Islands (Big Sister’s and Small Sister’s)
▪ Tekukor Island
However, when locals say “Southern Islands,” they are usually referring to only St. John’s and Kusu islands. This is probably because the public ferries that bring visitors to the southern islands only have 2 drop-offs, namely St. John’s and Kusu.
• Big Sister’s Island ~ Picnic, swimming, snorkel, visit the beach, Intertidal walk (only possible during low tide) diving (must be done with dive approved operators), explore the island. https://trevallog.com/sisters-islands-singapore.
• KUSU Island ~Da Bo Gong Temple, Wishing Well, Kusu Kramats, Tortoise Sanctuary, Swimming, picnic, See Singapore skyline, Take part in the Kusu island’s annual pilgrimage https://trevallog.com/kusu-island-singapore/
• St John’s Island ~ St John’s Island National Marine Laboratory, St John’s Island Beach, picnic, Intertidal walk (only possible during low tide, Overnight stay, NParks Guided Walking Tours, Walk to Lazarus Island and Seringat Island, Lazarus Beach https://trevallog.com/st-john-island-singapore/
When a craft is no longer in use, the pleasure craft licence must be surrendered to the MPA Marine Licensing and Permits department (MLP) and approval must be obtained from the Port Master to dispose of or store the craft on land.
To delicense a craft, please fill up the delicensed form (https://www.mpa.gov.sg/web/wcm/connect/www/670446c3-ce55-4b32-ba2d-6bd7e29a2ada/Delicense+Form.pdf?MOD=AJPERES)and submit to mlp@mpa.gov.sg.(mailto:mlp@mpa.gov.sg) Once approved, you will receive an email confirmation of cancellation.
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PPCDL is the course you have to take before you can apply for your exams to obtain your licence (issued by the Port Master) to drive any sort of pleasure craft that has a motor onboard (with SZ or SZH licence prefixes) within Singapore Port limits.
PPCDL is a pre-requisite to taking the APPCDL. APPCDL is required to drive any pleasure craft on length more than 24metres.
Distress call is made when in extreme danger such as in the event of a sinking or fire.
FORMAT
Mayday (x3)
This is (ship’s name or call sign x3)
Mayday (ship’s name or call sign)
Position Lat and Long /Location
Nature of distress........................
Aid required.................................
Number of persons on board and any useful information...................................
Over
EXAMPLE
“MAYDAY, MAYDAY, MAYDAY’
This is TEST, TEST, TEST
MAYDAY, TEST
Position 01° 16.5’N, 103° 55 East or Eastern Fairway
My boat is on fire and sinking, I require immediate assistance
4 persons on board,
OVER
You may broadcast your distress message over VHF channel 16 in the following format.
The purpose of Registration will accord the craft a nationality. The Registry does not provide evidence of title nor does it accommodate the registration of mortgages. Owners who wish to sail their craft beyond Singapore port limits must register their craft with a Flag Registry. Owners who qualify can choose to register their craft with the SRS or any other Flag Registry for which they are eligible.
Generally, jet skis require little maintenance other than getting serviced. Simply winterizing a jet ski every year can significantly increase its lifespan and limit the overall maintenance required. If you rinse the jet ski with fresh water after usage and keep the oil and fluids topped up, you shouldn’t have any issues.
Urgency call is made when in need of help but not in immediate danger.
FORMAT
PAN-PAN (x3)
This is (ship’s name or call sign x3)
Position Lat and Long /Location
Nature of urgency........................
Type of assistance required........
Number of persons on board and any useful information...................................
Over
EXAMPLE
“PAN-PAN, PAN-PAN, PAN-PAN’
This is TEST, TEST, TEST
Position 01° 16.5’N, 103° 55 East or Eastern Fairway
My boat has lost propulsion and I am drifting into traffic
I require assistance
4 persons on board and my boat is a 10 foot yacht.
OVER
If you are holding an expired PPCDL/APPCDL, please note the procedure to renew the PPCDL/APPCDL as follows. You are required to retake the PPCDL/APPCDL course conducted by any of the recognised PPCDL/APPCDL centres or retake the PPCDL/APPCDL examinations. The licence will only be renewed with the Certificate of Attendance issued by the PPCDL/APPCDL centre or the PPCDL/APPCDL Examination Result.
All licence holders are required to pass a medical examination, commencing from age 65, and once every three years thereafter, that is 65, 68, 71, 74, 77, 80 and so on.
Pleasure craft plying in international waters are required to be flagged with a Flag Registry. Registration will accord the craft a nationality. Craft owners may choose to register their craft with the Singapore Registry of Ships (SRS) or any other Flag Registry that offers the service. Craft registered with the SRS are to be used exclusively by the owner or his guests for sport or pleasure purposes only, and not for commercial use.
Registrations with the SRS can be made at MPA Registry Department at 460 Alexandra Road, PSA Building Level 21, Singapore 119963. The SRS can be contacted at: marine@mpa.gov.sg o(mailto:marine@mpa.gov.sg)r TEL: 6375 1932.(tel:+65 6375 1932)
It is suitable for all members of the public who meet the entry requirements as follows:
1. Be at least 16 years of age.
2. Have successfully completed an approved PPCDL course at any of the PPCDL Centres approved by MPA.
3. Produce a valid certificate by a medical practitioner certifying that you have passed an eyesight test and are not physically handicapped.
4. Successfully passed the PPCDL Examinations conducted by the Singapore Maritime Academy, Singapore Polytechnic.
Boats come in all shapes and sizes, and the prices can vary wildly. As with cars, a second hand boat costs significantly less than a brand new one.
Generally, prices cost from about $50,000 onwards for a second hand boat. On the other end of the scale, some of the biggest, fanciest yachts with spacious onboard living space can cost over a million bucks.
1. Lookout
Every vessel shall at all times maintain a proper lookout by sight and hearing as well as by all available means appropriate in the prevailing circumstances and conditions so as to make a full appraisal of the situation and assess the risk of any collision.
It is the responsibility of the master of the craft to maintain a proper all round lookout that extends to the back of the craft.
2. Safe speed
Every vessel shall at all times proceed at a safe speed so that proper and effective action can be taken to avoid collision and so that the vessel can be stopped within a distance appropriate to the prevailing circumstances and conditions.
There is no definite safe speed that can be defined in knots as it is subjected to different conditions such as:
• Weather
• Visibility
• Manoeuvrability of craft
• Master’s experience
• Density of traffic
3. Risk of collision
Every vessel shall use all available means appropriate to the prevailing circumstances and conditions to determine if there is a risk of collision. If there is any doubt, such risk shall be deemed to exist.
Proper use shall be made of radar equipment if fitted and operational, including long-range scanning to obtain early warning of any risk of a collision.
Assumptions should not be made on the basis of scanty information, especially scanty radar information.
In determining if a risk of collision exists, the following considerations shall be taken into account:
• Such risk shall be deemed to exist if the compass bearing of an approaching vessel does not appreciably change.
• Such risk may sometimes exist even when an appreciable bearing change is evident. This is particularly so when approaching a very large vessel or a tow, or when approaching a vessel at close range.
4. Action to avoid collision
Any action taken to avoid collision shall be taken in accordance with the Rules in this section and shall, if the circumstances of the case allow, be positive, made in ample time and observance of good seamanship. Valuable time can be wasted whilst mariners on vessels approaching each other try to make contact on VHF radio instead of complying with the COLREG.
Any alteration of course or speed to avoid a collision should, if the circumstances of the case allow, be large enough to be readily apparent to another vessel observing visually or by radar. It is best to avoid a succession of small alterations of course and/or speed.
If there is sufficient sea room, alteration of course alone may be the most effective action to avoid a close-quarter situation provided that the action is taken in good time, is substantial and does not result in another close-quarters situation.
Action taken to avoid collision with another vessel should be such as to result in the ability for the other vessel to pass at a safe distance.
The effectiveness of the action must be carefully monitored until the other vessel is finally past and clear.
If necessary to avoid collision or to allow more time to assess the situation, a vessel may slacken her speed or take all way off by stopping or reversing her propulsion system.
A vessel cannot impede the passage – and safe passage - of another vessel. It is also obliged, when the circumstances of the case dictate, to take early action to allow sufficient sea room for the safe passage of the other vessel. required
A vessel’s obligation to not impede the passage or safe passage of another vessel persists when approaching another vessel. To uphold this obligation, it must take action to avoid a risk of collision.
A vesse
l must also full uphold the rules of conduct as set down in this section even when passage of another vessel is not impeded when approaching another vessel.
5. Overtaking
• A vessel overtaking any other vessel must stay out of the way of the vessel being overtaken.
• A vessel can be overtaken on either of its sides provided the overtaking vessel stay well clear of the other vessel. Continue to monitor the other vessel that you have overtaken and ensure that you do not cut in front of its bow.
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6. Head-on situations
When two power-driven vessels are meeting on reciprocal or nearly reciprocal courses so as to involve risk of collision, both vessels must alter their course to starboard so that each shall pass on the port side of the other.
Such a situation shall be deemed to exist when a vessel sees the other ahead or nearly ahead and by night she could see the masthead lights of the other in a line or nearly in a line and/or both sidelights and by day she observes the corresponding aspect of the other vessel.
When a vessel is in any doubt as to whether such a situation exists she shall assume that it does exist and act accordingly.
When there is doubt about whether two vessels are approaching head-on or nearly head-on, it should be assumed that this is the case and both vessels must alter course to starboard.
Any alteration should be large enough so that it is apparent to the other vessel.
7. Crossing situations
This situation would frequently arise and it is always better to avoid a close-quarter situation and go right around the stern of the other vessel rather than cross ahead of the other vessel. Going around the stern may not be practical at all times but if the situation permits, it should be implemented.
Any alteration should be large enough so that it is apparent to the other vessel.
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8. Action by give-way vessel
A vessel that has been directed to keep out of the way of another vessel must, as far as possible, take early and substantial action to keep well clear.
Do not wait till the last minute to take action!
9. Action by stand-on vessel
When one of two vessels has been designated to keep out of the way, the other vessel shall maintain her course and speed. The stand-on vessel may however take action to avoid collision by manoeuvring as soon as it becomes apparent to her that the vessel required to keep out of the way is not taking appropriate action in compliance with the rules set down here.
10. Sailing vessels
In order to avoid the risk of a collision, when two sailing vessels are approaching one another, one of them must keep out of the way of the other as follows: When each has the wind on a different side, the vessel that has the wind on the port side shall keep out of the way of the other; When both have the wind on the same side, the vessel that is to windward shall keep out of the way of the vessel that is to leeward;
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Yes, it is must to cover your jet ski with an insurance. In fact, any powered watercrafts required an insurance coverage. The average cost of jet ski insurance can cost anywhere from $300 to $500 per year. The cost of jet ski insurance depends on factors such as the year, the make, and the jet ski model.
Pleasure craft that ply solely within the port limits of Singapore waters are not required to be flagged, but would require a pleasure craft licence.
Applications for a pleasure craft licence can be submitted electronically through MPA's MARINET system. For more information, please contact Marine Licensing and Permits at: osdc_mpa@mpa.gov.sg (mailto:osdc_mpa@mpa.gov.sg)or Tel: 6325 2373.(tel:+65 6325 2373)
Person overboard is a distress situation.
Should this occur, do not hesitate to call for help through your VHF radio or other forms of communication if you are unable to rescue the person in the water immediately.
To decrease the risk of the propeller inflicting an injury, turn the stern away from the person by i
mmediately putting the helm over to the side on which the person has fallen.
• Throw a lifebuoy over the side to assist the person. This lifebuoy will also serve as a marker.
• Approach the person slowly and from the downwind making sure you do not run or drift into him.
• When close enough, you may throw a line or the person may swim to you.
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TIPS: Agree on and practice your man overboard drill with all those on your boat, so that everyone is aware of what to do in an emergency situation.
From 1 Oct 2005, PPCDL & APPCDL are issued with a lifetime validity and are printed on plastic. Besides being more durable, they have improved security features to prevent tampering and forgery. Replacement of the PPCDL/APPCDL is not required unless it is damaged or lost.
The fee payable is $20.00. Licensee who prefers a PPCDL with a shorter duration can opt for a 5-year validity at a fee of $10.00.
The non-lifetime PPCDL must be renewed before its expiry. If the licence is renewed after expiry, the holder is required to retake the PPCDL course conducted by any of the recognised PPCDL centres listed or retake the PPCDL examination.
Any foreign or Singapore yacht cruising within the Singapore port waters without a pleasure craft licence, is considered as visiting yacht. Owners of visiting yatchts cruising within the Singapore port limits must apply for a cruising permit through the MARINET system using the online application, “e-Permits – Application for Visiting Yacht Cruising Permit”.
Additionally, craft owners who do not have a valid PPCDL/APPCDL, are required to complete an On-line Assessment Test using the MARINET system before they can pilot their yachts in Singapore port waters. Alternatively, they can engage the services of a steersman with a valid PPCDL/APPCDL.
For more information, please contact Marine Environment and Safety Department (MESD) at pms@mpa.gov.sg (mailto:pms@mpa.gov.sg)or TEL: 6325 2488/(tel:+65 6325 2488)6325 2489.(tel:+65 6325 2489)
The type of jet ski you need will depend on the features and specifications you want the jet ski to have. There are various types of jet ski models available ranging from recreational to performance, each having its own advantages and disadvantages for riders.
• Recreational-light jet ski
The recreational light jet ski is the most affordable type of jet ski on the market. With a top speed of around 40-50 miles per hour, these models have a 50 to 100 horsepower engine and are used for leisure. For this reason, they are small and lightweight with a capacity of two adults. These jet skis aren’t suitable for waves or bad weather as their lightweight and small hull makes it difficult to ride them in rough conditions.
• Recreational jet ski
The recreational jet ski models are the most popular mid-range jet ski models available. They are bigger and faster than recreational light jet ski models and have better specifications and features such as speed control options and performance options.
With an engine of between 100 and 200 horsepower, recreational jet skis have a top speed of between 50-65 miles per hour. Depending on the horsepower of the jet ski, recreational models can be used for leisure, wakeboarding, work (such as towing) and recreational racing.
• Luxury jet ski
Luxury jet skis are the most feature-rich jet ski models. They have powerful engines that have over 300 horsepower and boast a top speed of more than 65 miles per hour. Luxury jet skis are built to be big, with more storage and fuel capacity than other models.
They are designed to offer the highest level of comfort available while providing a stable and enjoyable ride in almost any condition. All the premium features are included with luxury jet skis, so you won’t have to worry about missing out on anything.
Touch screen displays, security systems and even eco-friendly performance modes are all standard features in luxury jet skis.
• Performance jet ski
Performance jet skis are elite versions of recreational jet ski models. They are made for competition and are easily the fastest jet skis on the market. With increased acceleration, torque, and handling, performance they can reach top speeds of 70-80 miles per hour, powered by extremely powerful engines. These models require a high level of skill to ride effectively and are best suited for experienced jet ski riders.
• Stand-up jet ski
Originally, all jet ski’s were narrow stand-up models with long handlebars that can move up and down with the driver’s stance. However, they’ve gone out of fashion due to how difficult they are to use and are now mainly used in competitions. There are still a few stand-up models, but if you’re serious about a stand-up jet ski, your best bet is to buy one second hand.
The easiest way is to approach a boat dealer. Dealers usually have a mixture of brand new and second hand boats for sale.
If you are not paying the full cost in cash, some boat dealers will offer their own loans if you are buying one of their boats. Alternatively, you can seek financing by taking out a personal loan.(https://www.moneysmart.sg/personal-loan)
• Engine power
Jet ski engines tend to have between 60-310 horsepower depending on make and model. Naturally aspirated engines that come in stock jet skis typically produce 60-180 horsepower, while supercharged models can provide 250-310 horsepower.
Naturally aspirated engines use atmospheric pressure in the intake to push the cumbustion process of the motor. They deliver steady power, whereas turbo charged engines use force induction and can lag–even though they give more power.
If you’re just starting out or renting you might want to consider a jet ski that offers lower horsepower in order to minimize the learning curve.
• Handling
Depending on your ability and skill, you will want a different level of handling from your jet ski. If you want to ride a smooth and nimble jet ski, having an ergonomic steering system on your ski will help you react faster and make more precise turns.
• Capacity
An important factor in deciding what jet ski is right for you has to do with the number of passengers. Most jet skis are made so that two adults can ride with comfort, however there is the option in many models of having up to three passenger capacity including the driver.
These larger jet skis are often also great for pulling a water-skier or wakeboarder, equipped as some of them are with a ski pylon mount.
• Storage
Storage is another important feature that jet skis can provide. Most jet skis have a dry storage space under the seat or under the handlebar. Additional storage space is available on the back of the jet ski. The amount of storage you need depends on the type of activities you will be doing, but generally speaking, most jet skis offer a suitable amount of storage for valuables and a small waterproof backpack.
• Trim
A jet ski’s trim helps keep the nose of the ski down, up, or even–depending on how it’s adjusted. When the trim is up, it keeps the nose down and helps increase your stability if you are riding in choppy water. For reaching speeds on calm water, you want your trim even so you can glide across the water with the least amount of resistance.
• Kill cord
The kill cord shuts off the engine, so that the jet ski doesn’t continue going when the rider falls off. A kill cord is a red lanyard with a clip at one end that attaches to a button on the console and a clip attached to the rider at the other end. Jet ski riders usually attach the kill cord to their wrist, their life vest or knee.
In the event of a fire occurring onboard, ensure that everyone is wearing a life jacket and use extinguishers to control the fire.
• If the fire is small, use an appropriate type of fire extinguisher and aim it at the base of the flames. Sweep the discharge nozzle from side to side until the fire is put out. Keep monitoring the situation and ensure that there is no chance of re-ignition.
• If your pleasure craft is moving when the fire starts, position the craft downwind so that the wind will blow the fire over the side. This will prevent the fire from spreading to other parts of the craft.
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TIPS: Good fire prevention practices require a clean interior that is free from waste, particularly oily waste. They also require well-serviced extinguishers to be placed at appropriate positions and a crew that knows how to use the fire extinguishers and that understands the principles of firefighting.
Your maintenance costs will obviously depend on how frequently and intensively you use your boat. If you use your boat every weekend, you should budget at least $500 to $1,500 per month. This cost includes the cost of fuel and any repairs or replacements that must be made.
Other than mechanical checkups and maintenance, you should also take into account costs such as marina memberships fees, cleaning services and the price of getting your boating license if you do not already have one.
Undesirable names that are likely to cause confusion in an emergency will not be accepted for registration. In addition, owners must be prepared to change a chosen name for their pleasure craft should the name already exist in the registry. No two craft under the Singapore registry shall bear the same name.
Obligations
The owner shall ensure that within one month from the date of registration, the pleasure craft is properly marked as follows:
• The name of the craft is clearly painted on or affixed on the exterior of the hull which is above the waterline of the pleasure craft, and its lifebuoys
• The word “Singapore” is clearly painted on or affixed on the stern, and its lifebuoys
• The markings must be effectively maintained
All Singapore Registered Craft shall hoist the national colours of Singapore known as the Red Ensign at the stern of craft. The symbol is that of a circle enclosing a crescent surmounted by five stars in a circle, all in white. The ratio of the width to the length of the ensign is one to two. The colours, crescent and stars are from the Singapore flag.
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In order to qualify for the issuance of a PPCDL by MPA, the applicant must:
a) be at least 16 years of age;
b) have successfully completed an approved course in the handling of a powered pleasure craft, conducted at any of the PPCDL Centres2 approved by MPA;
c) produce a valid certificate issued by a medical practitioner certifying that he/she has passed a sight test and is not physically handicapped;
d) successfully completed the PPCDL Examinations conducted by the Singapore Maritime Academy
For application of a new PPCDL, submit the following via MARINET at https://marinet.mpa.gov.sg (https://marinet.mpa.gov.sg)For SingPass holders, please choose ‘Individual’ and enter SingPass to logon and perform the application. If you do not have SingPass, please choose ‘Online Forms’ to perform the application.
a) copy of result slip of the PPCDL Examination from the Singapore Maritime Academy (SMA);
b) Identity Card (for Singapore citizens and permanent residents) and Passport/ FIN (for foreigners).
c) 1 recent passport-sized photograph;
Application for a new PPCDL must be made within 1 year of passing the examination. Thereafter, applicant has to retake the examination.
There is no age limit on a jet ski worldwide except for Singapore as a PPCDL is required to ride the jet ski, the minimum age will be 16 years old. The jet ski manufacturers have recommendations for the minimum height of the passengers for safety reasons. For safety reasons, a jet ski operator’s minimum age is normally considered to be 16 years old.
In order to qualify for the issuance of a APPCDL by MPA, the applicant must:
a) be at least 18 years of age;
b) have successfully completed an approved course in the handling of an Advanced Powered pleasure craft, conducted at Singapore Maritime Academy (SMA)5 ;
c) produce a valid certificate issued by a medical practitioner certifying that he/she has passed a sight test and is not physically handicapped;
d) successfully completed the APPCDL Examinations conducted by the Singapore Maritime Academy
For application of a new APPCDL, submit the following via MARINET at https://marinet.mpa.gov.sg.(https://marinet.mpa.gov.sg) For SingPass holders, please choose ‘Individual’ and enter SingPass to logon and perform the application. If you do not have SingPass, please choose ‘Online Forms’ to perform the application. Alternatively, you can make the application at MPA's One-Stop Document Centre (OSDC):
a) copy of result slip of the APPCDL Examination from the Singapore Maritime Academy (SMA);
b) Identity Card (for Singapore citizens and permanent residents) and Passport/ FIN (for foreigners).
c) 1 recent passport-sized photograph;
Application for a new APPCDL must be made within 1 year of passing the examination, if not, the applicant will have to retake the examination.
After you have submitted the online application, it will be processed within the next working day. Thereafter you will receive an email alert to make a payment of by NETS, debit or credit cards online. The receipt will serve as a temporary licence while the driving licence card is being manufactured and then posted to your residential address within a further 2 weeks.
Foreign pleasure craft driving licences are not convertible to our local licences due to the need for MPA to ensure adequate knowledge of local waters which is done via the PPCDL and APPCDL exams.
The answer is YES.
Your boat insurance premiums will depend on factors such as boat model and size, as well as what your boat is being insured for. Most insurers will offer hull coverage, which protects the hull as well as the items attached to or kept and used on the boat, such as marine electronics.
Other features that might or might not be included are cleanup coverage in case of fuel spills, and removal of wrecks. You should also check the limits of the territory in which your boat is insured.
Be prepared to pay at least $1,200 a year for the most basic insurance plans.
Pleasure craft, recreational fishing vessels and yachts, must obtain a Port Clearance Certificate (PCC) before departing the Port of Singapore. A departure declaration, together with the relevant documents, must be made to the MPA to obtain the PCC. The declaration can be made online at http://marinet.mpa.gov.sg (http://marinet.mpa.gov.sg)and requires the submission of these documents:
Certificate of Registry;
Safety Equipment Certificate as the case may be, reflecting the number of persons that the craft is permitted to carry and the life-saving devices she must be equipped with as prescribed by the flag state;
Declaration of voyage information (including destination, estimated date/time of departure from and return to Singapore) and the planned route of the trip to be drawn onto the chartlet.
Leave a copy of this information with a reliable relative, friend or your marina club. This is so that if you are overdue, a report can be made to the appropriate authorities to initiate search and rescue. Electronic Port Clearance users are to send the chartlet to the Maritime Rescue Co-ordination Centre (MRCC), either by email pocc@mpa.gov.sg (mailto:pocc@mpa.gov.sg)or contact MRCC Duty Officer at Tel: 6226 5539.(tel:6226 5539)
If your pleasure craft starts taking in water, the first thing to do is ensure that everyone puts on a life jacket.
• Try to locate the source of the leak and reduce the leak if possible. Call for help through your VHF radio or other forms of communication.
• Try to bail the water out to the best of your ability.
• Stay together in a group and with the craft should it submerge or turn over as you will have a greater chance of being found.
• Do not attempt to swim for shore unless absolutely certain that you will be able to make the distance.
Like a car, a boat is a depreciating asset. You will be paying significant costs in order to operate and maintain it, and you are unlikely to be able to sell it at a much higher price than you got it for, unless you are undertaking major restoration or renovation works.
That being said, it is still possible to monetise your boat or yacht by renting it out. For instance, there is quite a bit of demand for weekend yacht parties in Singapore. This does take extra work though, as many yacht rental businesses provide not only a crew but also perks like champagne buckets.
A mobile phone may be a useful communication equipment but it is not a substitute for marine radio due to the following reasons.
• Mobile phones may lose reception at certain locations.
• It is rarely waterproof and may get damaged easily.
• In an emergency, its communications cannot be heard by nearby vessels, which may be the parties available to provide assistance.
1. Jurong Island
2. Pulau Busing and Pulau Bukom
3. Pulau Sebarok and Shell SBM
4. Sembawang Wharves and approaches
5. Cafhi Jetty
6. Changi Naval Base
7. Selat Sengkir
8. Pulau Satumu (Raffles Lighthouse)
9. Southern Islands (Pulau Sudong, Pulau Pawai and Pulau Senang)
10. Tuas Naval Base
11. West Johor Straits from 2nd Link to Sarimbun adjacent to SAFTI Live firing area
12. Chek Jawa Wetlands
13. Ferry terminals and Piers (Changi Point Ferry Terminal, Changi Ferry Terminal, Tanah Merah Ferry Terminal, Marina South Pier and West Coast Pier)
14. Tuas Explosive Jetty
15. All Port Marine Notice (PMN) working areas
When calling foreign ports, kindly adhere to the respective local port regulations.
On arrival at a foreign port, all crafts are to report to the Harbour-master’s office to report inwards and to the immigration and customs offices with copies of crew list.
Before departure, all crafts are to report to the above offices with their crew list for outward clearance. A copy of the outward crew list duly endorsed by the immigration office to be kept and presented on return to Singapore or at the next port.
Since 2 June 2003, canoes and kayaks owned by individuals and organisations (except commercial operators) do not need to be licensed by the MPA. “Organisations” here refers to either:
An organisation not operated or conducted primarily for profit, which is engaged in or connected with the promotion of sports; or
An education institution not operated or conducted for profit, which is engaged with or connected with the advancement of education; or
A public authority or society not operated or conducted for profit, which is engaged with or connected with charitable activities that benefit the community as a whole.
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