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One-Day NSW Recreational Boat Licence Course

One-Day NSW Recreational Boat Licence Course in Sydney

Looking for a recreational NSW boat licence? BoatWise makes the process simple. This course is for recreational boating and is not a commercial maritime qualification.

Everything in one supportive day. Learn the theory, complete the official knowledge test and get approved practical training on Sydney Harbour.

No three-trip practical logbook. No separate testing appointments. Finish your course with the completion evidence you need to apply at Service NSW.

Small groups in Mosman Bay. Clear instruction and real on-water practice so you leave ready to apply and more confident at the helm.

Mosman Bay • From $430 incl. GST • Maximum 12 students

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Jason Ginns
September 16, 2026

Tristian is awesome with his boating knowledge and the ability to share this in an easy to understand manner. He also instills confidence in you during the training, which is a great help and helps you minimise mistakes. Tristian is next level with all sorts of other boating advice and assistance, liaising and assisting you to source boat repair slips and mechanics, ensuring your boat is operationally sound and ensuring any future issues are addressed in advance, and providing a wide range of resources via their webpage, suggested Apps, and other similar resources. Tristian is also always ready to take your call, and help you work through whatever issue you have. I highly recommend Tristian and thank him for his training and related assistance.

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Walt Coulston
September 2, 2026

I just finished an absolutely sensational day out on the water with Tristian from BoatWise. He's such a great skipper, gave exceptional advise and many practical examples and I'm far better for it. Above all, he's a great guy and I would highly recommend Tristian to anyone looking to advance their own boating and safety knowledge...

google
James Price
September 2, 2026

We wanted specific training on our boat, so that both of us as husband and wife ( Captain and Admiral) could handle all aspects of berthing the boat. She has been repowered and new switchboards put in for long distance coastal cruising. Tristan was very accommodating for our needs. He was patient and happy for us to repeat tasks until our confidence grew. We purchased the 'Confident Skipper Program' and it met our needs beautifully. Everyone within the Industry that we spoke to about doing this training spoke very highly of Tristan and his team. We now know why and are happy to recommend his business.

google
Anthony Beggs
August 29, 2026

We made the jump from a 22 to a 40 ft 4 years ago and I wanted to improve my skills in berthing in a tight pen and anchoring in stronger winds . Tristan was brilliant, patient and explained everything so clearly! Needless to say I feel more confident in both of those ( especially as I don’t have a bow thruster ) we will definitely book him again , I learnt so much in the 3 hours . Highly recommend him to give you confidence either with a new boat or an existing. Awesome time on the water mate …. Thank you !

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James Neeson
August 23, 2026

Tristan and Dave were excellent in helping get back going with my sailing and rebuilt my confidence after being away from it for 15 years. They were patient and and very knowledgeable which only come from experience. Dave's time with me on board for the day stepped me through the details of anchoring, picking and letting go of a mooring, setting up the sails and numerous conversations about many other aspects of the boat, motorsailing and sailing. A great investment in my pastime!

google
Voitek Syd
August 23, 2026

I had an excellent experience with Tristian, who assisted me with inspecting and running a 43ft Riviera. His knowledge, professionalism, and practical experience were evident throughout the entire process, making sure I felt confident and comfortable handling a vessel of this size. Thanks again, Tristian, for your time, and guidance.

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Henry
August 20, 2026

Really sick boat Course , tristan has helped me with anchoring, learning new knots, what do to before starting a boat for it to function properly, how to clean a boat how to maintain a boat and how to use a boat off shore , really good Business and just a sick thing to do 10/10 would recommend

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Judy Lee
August 18, 2026

After many years of owning sail boats my new little Jeanneau Merry Fisher had quite a complicated dashboard. Tristian is very good at explaining how everything works which has improved my confidence in the transition from sail power to motor boat. He’s an excellent teacher and I’m happy to recommend him.

google
Daniel Zhang
August 11, 2026

Great learning experience with Tristan as my boating instructor. Tristan is incredibly professional, patient and passionate while also really easy to get along with. He has helped me become so much more confident and capable on the water. I really appreciate the dedication and effort he puts into teaching and making lessons enjoyable. I highly recommend Tristan to anybody looking for a knowledgeable and professional boating instructor!

google
Terry Mugford
July 30, 2026

The training was relaxed, easy to follow, and gave me the confidence to handle both simple and more complex manoeuvres on the water. Tristan explained everything clearly, was patient, and made sure I understood each skill before moving on. By the end of each session, I felt confident with docking, reversing, manoeuvring in tight spaces, and safely handling the boat in a range of different situations. From start to finish, the experience was outstanding. Tristan displayed absolute professionalism throughout and took the time to ensure I left with the skills and confidence to operate a boat safely. I couldn't recommend Tristan and the entire Boat Wise team highly enough.

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Dean Stevenson
July 28, 2026

Tristan is an excellent patient teacher, his boating advice really helped us gain confidence for when you really need it.

google
Sedat Y
July 25, 2026

Tristan is a very experienced skipper who clearly loves what he does. He’s patient, easy to learn from, and happy to go the extra mile to help. I really enjoyed my time on the water with him and learned a lot. Highly recommend if you’re looking to build confidence and improve your boating skills.

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alison newell
July 23, 2026

Ive had the privilege of spending many days on the water with Tristain over the past year, and I couldn’t recommend him highly enough. Tristain is an exceptional boating instructor with a wealth of knowledge and experience. He has a calm, patient teaching style that builds confidence, and he takes the time to explain not just how to do things, but why. Every trip was a valuable learning experience, covering practical boating skills, safety, navigation and seamanship in a relaxed and enjoyable environment. His passion for boating is obvious, and he genuinely wants those on board to develop their skills and confidence. Whether you’re new to boating or looking to build on your experience, Tristain’s professionalism, encouragement and expertise make him an outstanding mentor. Thank you, Tristain, for sharing your knowledge and making every day on the water such an enjoyable and rewarding experience. I would highly recommend your training to anyone wanting to become a safer and more confident boater.

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mohammed yousuf
July 22, 2026

I just completed a four-hour training session with Captain Tristian and already feel confident enough to drive the boat on my own. He was friendly, patient and very practical, taking enough time to explain everything in detail, including all the boat controls. His experience and guidance were excellent. Highly recommended!

google
Bernard Haylen
July 22, 2026

Tristian has been a marvellous and very patient boating tutor. It's been very enjoyable working with him. My boating skills and confidence have improved enormously. He has been very helpful in ensuring warranty issues and improvements on my boat are completed. Highly recommend.

google
Harry Price
July 22, 2026

Tristian has been great at inspiring confidence in driving my boat. He is knowledgable, encouraging, and has the perfect temperament to help you stay calm and in control in a situation which would otherwise be quite stressful.

google
roy palic
July 21, 2026

I upgraded to a 9m boat from a 5m one. Tristan was able to give myself and my partner the ability to dock, take up a mooring single handed and to anchor effectively. His patience humour and ability to explain things clearly made all the difference.

google
Ayoub Junior
July 19, 2026

I had an excellent experience with Tristan. He was professional extremely knowledgeable throughout the entire course. He explained everything clearly and made sure I understood everything before moving further. His calm and encouraging approach gave me the confidence to operate a boat safely and responsibly. I highly recommend him to anyone looking to get their boat licence. If you’re after an instructor who genuinely cares about his students success and safety, you won’t find anyone better. Thank you for making the learning experience enjoyable and helping me pass with confidence! Thank you once again Mohamed

google
Andrew Skyring
July 19, 2026

My wife & I had a fabulous 4 hour introductory boat skills course with skipper Dave. Seamlessly arranged through Tristian and Boat Wise. We learnt skills in confidently docking our boat, cardinal markers, safe waterway rules and assessing environmental factors. Will definitely be booking more courses and continue to gain confidence on the water.

google
Mohamad Alameddine
July 18, 2026

Absolutely essential service if you want to learn how to efficiently and SAFELY operate your new boat. I can’t thank Tristan enough for the help and support that he has provided my family and I. With Tristan’s cleare concise and no nonsense approach, he has helped my confident skyrocket when operating my boat, especially when it comes to docking. Tristan’s knowledge on the water truly is priceless, and the best part about Tristan, is that he’s offering his experience and skills for anyone who truly wants to operate safely and efficiently on the water. 10 star service, highly recommended!

google
Marcelle Carr
July 11, 2026

I would highly recommend doing the day Boat course with Tristian. His knowledge and experience on the water was invaluable and as I am a newly licensed boat owner it gave me the confidence I needed.

google
Bachir Zreika
July 3, 2026

Brilliant service! Tristan and Dave were absolutely professional, gave clear instructions, always followed up and made things all simple. Highly recommended!

google
Lawrence Aubert
June 26, 2026

A truly memorable day on the harbour despite the pouring rain, as Tristian gave us wonderful & worthwhile lessons in boating & navigation . Even if you feel you’re fairly experienced as I did, I highly recommend engaging Tristian as you’ll quickly realise there’s so much more to know or brush up on .

google
Mark Flynn
June 11, 2026

I can’t recommend Tristan and the Boatwise crew highly enough. As a first-time boat owner, I was looking for guidance, knowledge, and confidence, and Tristan has delivered all of that and more. He has taken the time to ensure both my teenage daughter and I feel comfortable, capable, and safe on the water. His patience, professionalism, and practical approach to teaching have made our boating journey enjoyable and stress-free. Thanks to Tristan and the Boatwise team, we now have the confidence to get out there and make the most of our boat. If you’re new to boating or looking to build your skills and confidence, Boatwise is the team to call.

google

I recently completed my boat licence course with this maritime training provider, and I couldn't be happier with the experience. The trainers were highly professional, knowledgeable, and supportive throughout the entire process. The theory and practical components were delivered efficiently within the same day, making the course both convenient and engaging. The practical training was excellent, providing clear instructions and hands-on experience that helped build my confidence on the water. The theory sessions were also well-structured, easy to follow, and covered all the essential information required to operate a vessel safely. Thanks to their professional approach and quality training, I successfully completed the course and obtained my boat licence on the same day. I highly recommend this training provider to anyone looking to obtain their boat licence in a professional, friendly, and well-organised environment. Thank you to the entire team for a great experience! 🚤⚓

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Robert Kauter
June 4, 2026

Gaining my Coxswain Grade 3 with Tristian, followed by my Powerboat Handling course, gave me real confidence on the water and ultimately helped me secure a position as a deckhand with All Occasion Cruises. Throughout my boating journey, I felt supported and encouraged every step of the way. Your training helped me transition from a complete novice to confidently operating a 42ft Axopar. I genuinely appreciated the guidance, patience, and professionalism you showed throughout the process. Thanks for all of your support Tristan!

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Jing Teoh
May 17, 2026

The best private boat tuition overall. I completed my practical logbook and boat licence training with Tristian, and the experience was excellent. He was very patient, professional, and easy to learn from throughout the whole process. Highly recommend for anyone wanting to get their boat licence or improve their boating skills. I’ll definitely be coming back for more practice in the future.

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Josh Chen
May 14, 2026

Excellent instructors! I had the pleasure of having Tristian and Dave for my handover session and for taking my boat out on the open water for the trip home. They were both extremely friendly, professional, and patient throughout the experience. Their knowledge and experience were invaluable, especially for new boaters, and they made the whole process enjoyable and reassuring. Very happy with the sessions and highly recommend them 😊

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Jiwoo Choi
May 5, 2026

I recently got my boating license, but I felt I still needed more training. I was a bit worried because my English isn’t very fluent, but Tristian explained everything clearly and kindly, step by step. I had so much fun during the lesson, and it was a really enjoyable experience. Even if you already have a boating license, I think regular lessons are very helpful. I look forward to seeing him again!

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Tim Polmear
April 16, 2026

Great session with Tristian. Went from novice having only had smaller boat experience to feeling pretty good within 3hrs. Could berth my 42ft flybridge cruiser on my own by the end. Very patient and helpful, just what I was looking for. Cheers Tristian

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Dan Smith
April 14, 2026

Absolutely loved the experience, great detail on everything we need to know about boating. would recommend to anyone looking to get a boat license today, do not hesitate to contact Boat Wise now.

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Lubos Sery
March 26, 2026

By far the best in business, thats if you have competition Tristan haha Love your work and support . Thank you 🤩

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Daniel Latif
March 24, 2026

I did a boat handling course with Tristian from Boatwise and couldn’t recommend it more highly. I had basically no experience docking a 35-foot flybridge beforehand and wasn’t very confident, but after just one session my confidence improved more than I expected and I was able to do it on my own. Tristian explains things in a really clear, practical way and stays calm the whole time, which makes learning close quarters handling much easier. He’s also a great guy to spend a few hours on the water with - easy going, patient, and knows his stuff. Worth every cent.

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Maree Bunney
March 5, 2026

Boat Wise is an excellent step for those wishing to gain boating skills in skilled hands.

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N H
February 10, 2026

Great service and great tuition lesson by Tristian. His lessons make you gradually feel better as you practice. Very happy I choose him today and loved Boat wises work. Thank you 🙏🏼

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Christopher Mouawad
February 8, 2026

My training with Boat Wise was excellent. My instructor, Tristan, was professional, patient, and incredibly knowledgeable. He explained everything clearly, making the entire process straightforward. The practical training truly built my confidence on the water. I highly recommend Boat Wise!

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One Way DC
February 8, 2026

Tristan is a fantastic mentor with amazing mentorship qualities. He has taught me the cirrect simplified steps with respects to all aspects of boating. I strongly recommend his service to those wishing to learn from a professional who has great ability to Transfer knowledge and teach beginners, and also to refine skills of experienced boaters

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Robert Kauter
February 4, 2026

Great powerboat handling course with Tristian. Practical and professional, I felt confident docking an Axopar 28’ straight away, great day out on the water.

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Christopher Page
February 3, 2026

The team at Boat Wise are the best. Highly recommended if you want to take your boating skills to the next level.

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Matthew Palmer
February 2, 2026

Highly recommend - great service. We're new to boating, Tristian took us through all the basics launching and retrieving, docking and pulling away from dock, manoeuvring in wind and swell, anchoring, staying on plain, navigating around the harbour. We can head out with a lot more confidence.

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Colin Elphick
February 1, 2026

I cannot recommend BoatWise highly enough. My friend and I got our boat licenses together, but as total newcomers to boating we wanted to get a solid base of knowledge beyond what is provided in the licensing course before heading out on our own. We booked a one day course with Tristian, and spent 6 hours out on the water with him. Every element of the training was exceptional. Tristian is in the first instance a fantastic teacher - extremely knowledgeable, well-organised, clear in his instruction, patient, and good-natured - but he is also just a great guy to spend a day with out on the water. He built the training specifically for our level of experience and capabilities, and throughout the day was constantly checking in the make sure that we were confident and happy before moving on to the next skill. The amount of knowledge and number of skills that he was able to transfer to us over the course of the day was honestly unbelievable. When we had covered the basics by mid-afternoon and felt confident handling the boat in a range of scenarios ranging from slow speed handling and docking to driving through heavy sailboat traffic, Tristian was happy to take us out to the heads to teach us how to read and navigate through waves and rougher waters. The training was totally hands-on: other than when Tristian was demonstrating various skills for us to practice we were behind the wheel for the entire time. I started the day having essentially never driven a boat, and by the end I felt completely confident to handle a boat in a wide variety of conditions within the harbour. If you're getting started out and want to fast track your journey to be one that is safe, stress-free, and just plain fun then there is quite simply no money better spent than booking in some training with BoatWise.

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Upul Liyanage
January 25, 2026

Highly recommend if you are new to boating. I took private lesson and it was well worth. By the end of my practice session, I was so much confident to drive a boat on my own. Had a good fun in the harbour.

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HANY SALAMA
January 25, 2026

I recently completed a private training course with Boatwise for myself and my son, and our instructor Tristane was absolutely fantastic. Before this course, I had been trying to learn boat handling on my own for almost a year with very little success. Within minutes of training with Tristane, everything finally clicked. His hands on teaching style, clear techniques, and calm approach made driving and docking feel simple and stress free. Tristane made me feel extremely confident on the water, especially when manoeuvring and docking, something I previously found very challenging. He breaks things down in a practical, easy-to-understand way and stays right there with you until you truly get it. I highly recommend Tristane to anyone who wants to be fully in control of their boat on the water. Give him a call — he will literally change the way you boat.

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Nick Pintaric
January 9, 2026

As a first time and somewhat anxious boat owner, today was our first experience with Tristan. His true passion for boating and enthusiasm for his clients to enjoy the instructor experience impressed me from the minute he stepped on board. Tristan’s attention to detail, clear instructions and intuition of what our specific requirements were, made for a very productive day, leaving us more confident and more enthusiastic than ever about our future in boating. … Tristan is a credit to his profession and passion.

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Robbie Geammal
January 9, 2026

I found Tristan to be extremely professional , his boating skills and how he teachs and helps you remain calm whilst taking you through manoeuvres is second to none . I can’t recommend Tristan enough! If you find berthing a boat as nerve racking as I did … hire Tristan.. used my boat the next day ….docked first go with confidence!

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Elijah Fischer
January 6, 2026

Tristan gave my brother and I an amazing time on his brand new boat, teaching us different skills whilst also showing us how to drive well in all situations. Was super friendly and a great teacher.

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Steven R
December 23, 2025

I highly recommend booking a session with Tristian to anyone who is either new to boating or rediscovering their boating journey. Tristian is a skillful and patient educator and he is willing to share his knowledge and experience with students of all backgrounds. If you approach his sessions with openness, positivity, and a keen ear, you will be rewarded with some real gems to cherish as you build your own boating experience.

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Qi Jiang
December 3, 2025

I had an excellent experience with Tristian as my private boating coach. He understood everything I asked perfectly and explained things clearly with a great communication throughout the session. His boating knowledge is truly impressive, and he shared tips and the insides that were both practical and easy to apply. I left the lesson feeling much more confident and the better propelled thanks to his expertise. Highly recommend Tristian to anyone looking for a skilled and reliable instructor.

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KW
November 28, 2025

My husband and I have been training (and a sunset and evening cruise!) with Tristian since August last year, and he is honestly one of the best operators you’ll ever meet. He’s professional, patient, funny, and makes every session feel relaxed and enjoyable — even when you’re learning something new. We always walk away feeling more confident, and every time on the water with him becomes a beautiful memory. If you’re looking for training, a skipper, or just an unforgettable day out, we can’t recommend him enough. A genuinely good person and an exceptional instructor. Thanks so much, Tristian — see you again soon!

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Liz Mac
November 25, 2025

Tristan and Dave were both super responsive, helpful and pleasant to deal with. I had lessons using our own boat in our local waters which was just what I needed to be more confident on the water. Dave was an extremely experienced skipper who had a lot of knowledge to share - both my husband and I learned so much from him - we’ve changed things around on our boat and we are buying a few other items for safety and ease of using the boat. During the lessons we did a mix of practical things like mooring and anchoring as well as setting a passage for the morning. Dave was always pleasant and upbeat and just a really great teacher - we always felt safe with Dave and had a lot of fun too. I highly recommend both Dave and Tristan for boating lessons or getting your boat licence.

NSW Boat Licence Course
$430.00
(incl. GST)
Complete theory, testing and practical training in one day.Delivered with Maritime Training School · Approved NSW Maritime training and testing provider
Vessel:
Brig Eagle 645
Students:
Maximum 12 students
Location:
Mosman Bay Sea Scouts
5 Centenary Drive, Mosman NSW 2088
Runtime:
Starting at 9:00 am
Dates:
Multiple course dates available each week
Logo for Maritime Training School featuring a stylized compass and wave design next to the school name in blue capital letters.
Approved NSW Maritime training and testing provider. Silver Spirit Cruises Pty Ltd T/A Maritime Training School · RTO 91487.
google
Jason Ginns
September 16, 2026

Tristian is awesome with his boating knowledge and the ability to share this in an easy to understand manner. He also instills confidence in you during the training, which is a great help and helps you minimise mistakes. Tristian is next level with all sorts of other boating advice and assistance, liaising and assisting you to source boat repair slips and mechanics, ensuring your boat is operationally sound and ensuring any future issues are addressed in advance, and providing a wide range of resources via their webpage, suggested Apps, and other similar resources. Tristian is also always ready to take your call, and help you work through whatever issue you have. I highly recommend Tristian and thank him for his training and related assistance.

google
Walt Coulston
September 2, 2026

I just finished an absolutely sensational day out on the water with Tristian from BoatWise. He's such a great skipper, gave exceptional advise and many practical examples and I'm far better for it. Above all, he's a great guy and I would highly recommend Tristian to anyone looking to advance their own boating and safety knowledge...

google
James Price
September 2, 2026

We wanted specific training on our boat, so that both of us as husband and wife ( Captain and Admiral) could handle all aspects of berthing the boat. She has been repowered and new switchboards put in for long distance coastal cruising. Tristan was very accommodating for our needs. He was patient and happy for us to repeat tasks until our confidence grew. We purchased the 'Confident Skipper Program' and it met our needs beautifully. Everyone within the Industry that we spoke to about doing this training spoke very highly of Tristan and his team. We now know why and are happy to recommend his business.

google
Anthony Beggs
August 29, 2026

We made the jump from a 22 to a 40 ft 4 years ago and I wanted to improve my skills in berthing in a tight pen and anchoring in stronger winds . Tristan was brilliant, patient and explained everything so clearly! Needless to say I feel more confident in both of those ( especially as I don’t have a bow thruster ) we will definitely book him again , I learnt so much in the 3 hours . Highly recommend him to give you confidence either with a new boat or an existing. Awesome time on the water mate …. Thank you !

google
James Neeson
August 23, 2026

Tristan and Dave were excellent in helping get back going with my sailing and rebuilt my confidence after being away from it for 15 years. They were patient and and very knowledgeable which only come from experience. Dave's time with me on board for the day stepped me through the details of anchoring, picking and letting go of a mooring, setting up the sails and numerous conversations about many other aspects of the boat, motorsailing and sailing. A great investment in my pastime!

google
Voitek Syd
August 23, 2026

I had an excellent experience with Tristian, who assisted me with inspecting and running a 43ft Riviera. His knowledge, professionalism, and practical experience were evident throughout the entire process, making sure I felt confident and comfortable handling a vessel of this size. Thanks again, Tristian, for your time, and guidance.

google
Henry
August 20, 2026

Really sick boat Course , tristan has helped me with anchoring, learning new knots, what do to before starting a boat for it to function properly, how to clean a boat how to maintain a boat and how to use a boat off shore , really good Business and just a sick thing to do 10/10 would recommend

google
Judy Lee
August 18, 2026

After many years of owning sail boats my new little Jeanneau Merry Fisher had quite a complicated dashboard. Tristian is very good at explaining how everything works which has improved my confidence in the transition from sail power to motor boat. He’s an excellent teacher and I’m happy to recommend him.

google
Daniel Zhang
August 11, 2026

Great learning experience with Tristan as my boating instructor. Tristan is incredibly professional, patient and passionate while also really easy to get along with. He has helped me become so much more confident and capable on the water. I really appreciate the dedication and effort he puts into teaching and making lessons enjoyable. I highly recommend Tristan to anybody looking for a knowledgeable and professional boating instructor!

google
Terry Mugford
July 30, 2026

The training was relaxed, easy to follow, and gave me the confidence to handle both simple and more complex manoeuvres on the water. Tristan explained everything clearly, was patient, and made sure I understood each skill before moving on. By the end of each session, I felt confident with docking, reversing, manoeuvring in tight spaces, and safely handling the boat in a range of different situations. From start to finish, the experience was outstanding. Tristan displayed absolute professionalism throughout and took the time to ensure I left with the skills and confidence to operate a boat safely. I couldn't recommend Tristan and the entire Boat Wise team highly enough.

google
Dean Stevenson
July 28, 2026

Tristan is an excellent patient teacher, his boating advice really helped us gain confidence for when you really need it.

google
Sedat Y
July 25, 2026

Tristan is a very experienced skipper who clearly loves what he does. He’s patient, easy to learn from, and happy to go the extra mile to help. I really enjoyed my time on the water with him and learned a lot. Highly recommend if you’re looking to build confidence and improve your boating skills.

google
alison newell
July 23, 2026

Ive had the privilege of spending many days on the water with Tristain over the past year, and I couldn’t recommend him highly enough. Tristain is an exceptional boating instructor with a wealth of knowledge and experience. He has a calm, patient teaching style that builds confidence, and he takes the time to explain not just how to do things, but why. Every trip was a valuable learning experience, covering practical boating skills, safety, navigation and seamanship in a relaxed and enjoyable environment. His passion for boating is obvious, and he genuinely wants those on board to develop their skills and confidence. Whether you’re new to boating or looking to build on your experience, Tristain’s professionalism, encouragement and expertise make him an outstanding mentor. Thank you, Tristain, for sharing your knowledge and making every day on the water such an enjoyable and rewarding experience. I would highly recommend your training to anyone wanting to become a safer and more confident boater.

google
mohammed yousuf
July 22, 2026

I just completed a four-hour training session with Captain Tristian and already feel confident enough to drive the boat on my own. He was friendly, patient and very practical, taking enough time to explain everything in detail, including all the boat controls. His experience and guidance were excellent. Highly recommended!

google
Bernard Haylen
July 22, 2026

Tristian has been a marvellous and very patient boating tutor. It's been very enjoyable working with him. My boating skills and confidence have improved enormously. He has been very helpful in ensuring warranty issues and improvements on my boat are completed. Highly recommend.

google
Harry Price
July 22, 2026

Tristian has been great at inspiring confidence in driving my boat. He is knowledgable, encouraging, and has the perfect temperament to help you stay calm and in control in a situation which would otherwise be quite stressful.

google
roy palic
July 21, 2026

I upgraded to a 9m boat from a 5m one. Tristan was able to give myself and my partner the ability to dock, take up a mooring single handed and to anchor effectively. His patience humour and ability to explain things clearly made all the difference.

google
Ayoub Junior
July 19, 2026

I had an excellent experience with Tristan. He was professional extremely knowledgeable throughout the entire course. He explained everything clearly and made sure I understood everything before moving further. His calm and encouraging approach gave me the confidence to operate a boat safely and responsibly. I highly recommend him to anyone looking to get their boat licence. If you’re after an instructor who genuinely cares about his students success and safety, you won’t find anyone better. Thank you for making the learning experience enjoyable and helping me pass with confidence! Thank you once again Mohamed

google
Andrew Skyring
July 19, 2026

My wife & I had a fabulous 4 hour introductory boat skills course with skipper Dave. Seamlessly arranged through Tristian and Boat Wise. We learnt skills in confidently docking our boat, cardinal markers, safe waterway rules and assessing environmental factors. Will definitely be booking more courses and continue to gain confidence on the water.

google
Mohamad Alameddine
July 18, 2026

Absolutely essential service if you want to learn how to efficiently and SAFELY operate your new boat. I can’t thank Tristan enough for the help and support that he has provided my family and I. With Tristan’s cleare concise and no nonsense approach, he has helped my confident skyrocket when operating my boat, especially when it comes to docking. Tristan’s knowledge on the water truly is priceless, and the best part about Tristan, is that he’s offering his experience and skills for anyone who truly wants to operate safely and efficiently on the water. 10 star service, highly recommended!

google
Marcelle Carr
July 11, 2026

I would highly recommend doing the day Boat course with Tristian. His knowledge and experience on the water was invaluable and as I am a newly licensed boat owner it gave me the confidence I needed.

google
Bachir Zreika
July 3, 2026

Brilliant service! Tristan and Dave were absolutely professional, gave clear instructions, always followed up and made things all simple. Highly recommended!

google
Lawrence Aubert
June 26, 2026

A truly memorable day on the harbour despite the pouring rain, as Tristian gave us wonderful & worthwhile lessons in boating & navigation . Even if you feel you’re fairly experienced as I did, I highly recommend engaging Tristian as you’ll quickly realise there’s so much more to know or brush up on .

google
Mark Flynn
June 11, 2026

I can’t recommend Tristan and the Boatwise crew highly enough. As a first-time boat owner, I was looking for guidance, knowledge, and confidence, and Tristan has delivered all of that and more. He has taken the time to ensure both my teenage daughter and I feel comfortable, capable, and safe on the water. His patience, professionalism, and practical approach to teaching have made our boating journey enjoyable and stress-free. Thanks to Tristan and the Boatwise team, we now have the confidence to get out there and make the most of our boat. If you’re new to boating or looking to build your skills and confidence, Boatwise is the team to call.

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I recently completed my boat licence course with this maritime training provider, and I couldn't be happier with the experience. The trainers were highly professional, knowledgeable, and supportive throughout the entire process. The theory and practical components were delivered efficiently within the same day, making the course both convenient and engaging. The practical training was excellent, providing clear instructions and hands-on experience that helped build my confidence on the water. The theory sessions were also well-structured, easy to follow, and covered all the essential information required to operate a vessel safely. Thanks to their professional approach and quality training, I successfully completed the course and obtained my boat licence on the same day. I highly recommend this training provider to anyone looking to obtain their boat licence in a professional, friendly, and well-organised environment. Thank you to the entire team for a great experience! 🚤⚓

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Robert Kauter
June 4, 2026

Gaining my Coxswain Grade 3 with Tristian, followed by my Powerboat Handling course, gave me real confidence on the water and ultimately helped me secure a position as a deckhand with All Occasion Cruises. Throughout my boating journey, I felt supported and encouraged every step of the way. Your training helped me transition from a complete novice to confidently operating a 42ft Axopar. I genuinely appreciated the guidance, patience, and professionalism you showed throughout the process. Thanks for all of your support Tristan!

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Jing Teoh
May 17, 2026

The best private boat tuition overall. I completed my practical logbook and boat licence training with Tristian, and the experience was excellent. He was very patient, professional, and easy to learn from throughout the whole process. Highly recommend for anyone wanting to get their boat licence or improve their boating skills. I’ll definitely be coming back for more practice in the future.

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Josh Chen
May 14, 2026

Excellent instructors! I had the pleasure of having Tristian and Dave for my handover session and for taking my boat out on the open water for the trip home. They were both extremely friendly, professional, and patient throughout the experience. Their knowledge and experience were invaluable, especially for new boaters, and they made the whole process enjoyable and reassuring. Very happy with the sessions and highly recommend them 😊

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Jiwoo Choi
May 5, 2026

I recently got my boating license, but I felt I still needed more training. I was a bit worried because my English isn’t very fluent, but Tristian explained everything clearly and kindly, step by step. I had so much fun during the lesson, and it was a really enjoyable experience. Even if you already have a boating license, I think regular lessons are very helpful. I look forward to seeing him again!

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Tim Polmear
April 16, 2026

Great session with Tristian. Went from novice having only had smaller boat experience to feeling pretty good within 3hrs. Could berth my 42ft flybridge cruiser on my own by the end. Very patient and helpful, just what I was looking for. Cheers Tristian

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Dan Smith
April 14, 2026

Absolutely loved the experience, great detail on everything we need to know about boating. would recommend to anyone looking to get a boat license today, do not hesitate to contact Boat Wise now.

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Lubos Sery
March 26, 2026

By far the best in business, thats if you have competition Tristan haha Love your work and support . Thank you 🤩

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Daniel Latif
March 24, 2026

I did a boat handling course with Tristian from Boatwise and couldn’t recommend it more highly. I had basically no experience docking a 35-foot flybridge beforehand and wasn’t very confident, but after just one session my confidence improved more than I expected and I was able to do it on my own. Tristian explains things in a really clear, practical way and stays calm the whole time, which makes learning close quarters handling much easier. He’s also a great guy to spend a few hours on the water with - easy going, patient, and knows his stuff. Worth every cent.

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Maree Bunney
March 5, 2026

Boat Wise is an excellent step for those wishing to gain boating skills in skilled hands.

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N H
February 10, 2026

Great service and great tuition lesson by Tristian. His lessons make you gradually feel better as you practice. Very happy I choose him today and loved Boat wises work. Thank you 🙏🏼

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Christopher Mouawad
February 8, 2026

My training with Boat Wise was excellent. My instructor, Tristan, was professional, patient, and incredibly knowledgeable. He explained everything clearly, making the entire process straightforward. The practical training truly built my confidence on the water. I highly recommend Boat Wise!

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One Way DC
February 8, 2026

Tristan is a fantastic mentor with amazing mentorship qualities. He has taught me the cirrect simplified steps with respects to all aspects of boating. I strongly recommend his service to those wishing to learn from a professional who has great ability to Transfer knowledge and teach beginners, and also to refine skills of experienced boaters

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Robert Kauter
February 4, 2026

Great powerboat handling course with Tristian. Practical and professional, I felt confident docking an Axopar 28’ straight away, great day out on the water.

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Christopher Page
February 3, 2026

The team at Boat Wise are the best. Highly recommended if you want to take your boating skills to the next level.

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Matthew Palmer
February 2, 2026

Highly recommend - great service. We're new to boating, Tristian took us through all the basics launching and retrieving, docking and pulling away from dock, manoeuvring in wind and swell, anchoring, staying on plain, navigating around the harbour. We can head out with a lot more confidence.

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Colin Elphick
February 1, 2026

I cannot recommend BoatWise highly enough. My friend and I got our boat licenses together, but as total newcomers to boating we wanted to get a solid base of knowledge beyond what is provided in the licensing course before heading out on our own. We booked a one day course with Tristian, and spent 6 hours out on the water with him. Every element of the training was exceptional. Tristian is in the first instance a fantastic teacher - extremely knowledgeable, well-organised, clear in his instruction, patient, and good-natured - but he is also just a great guy to spend a day with out on the water. He built the training specifically for our level of experience and capabilities, and throughout the day was constantly checking in the make sure that we were confident and happy before moving on to the next skill. The amount of knowledge and number of skills that he was able to transfer to us over the course of the day was honestly unbelievable. When we had covered the basics by mid-afternoon and felt confident handling the boat in a range of scenarios ranging from slow speed handling and docking to driving through heavy sailboat traffic, Tristian was happy to take us out to the heads to teach us how to read and navigate through waves and rougher waters. The training was totally hands-on: other than when Tristian was demonstrating various skills for us to practice we were behind the wheel for the entire time. I started the day having essentially never driven a boat, and by the end I felt completely confident to handle a boat in a wide variety of conditions within the harbour. If you're getting started out and want to fast track your journey to be one that is safe, stress-free, and just plain fun then there is quite simply no money better spent than booking in some training with BoatWise.

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Upul Liyanage
January 25, 2026

Highly recommend if you are new to boating. I took private lesson and it was well worth. By the end of my practice session, I was so much confident to drive a boat on my own. Had a good fun in the harbour.

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HANY SALAMA
January 25, 2026

I recently completed a private training course with Boatwise for myself and my son, and our instructor Tristane was absolutely fantastic. Before this course, I had been trying to learn boat handling on my own for almost a year with very little success. Within minutes of training with Tristane, everything finally clicked. His hands on teaching style, clear techniques, and calm approach made driving and docking feel simple and stress free. Tristane made me feel extremely confident on the water, especially when manoeuvring and docking, something I previously found very challenging. He breaks things down in a practical, easy-to-understand way and stays right there with you until you truly get it. I highly recommend Tristane to anyone who wants to be fully in control of their boat on the water. Give him a call — he will literally change the way you boat.

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Nick Pintaric
January 9, 2026

As a first time and somewhat anxious boat owner, today was our first experience with Tristan. His true passion for boating and enthusiasm for his clients to enjoy the instructor experience impressed me from the minute he stepped on board. Tristan’s attention to detail, clear instructions and intuition of what our specific requirements were, made for a very productive day, leaving us more confident and more enthusiastic than ever about our future in boating. … Tristan is a credit to his profession and passion.

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Robbie Geammal
January 9, 2026

I found Tristan to be extremely professional , his boating skills and how he teachs and helps you remain calm whilst taking you through manoeuvres is second to none . I can’t recommend Tristan enough! If you find berthing a boat as nerve racking as I did … hire Tristan.. used my boat the next day ….docked first go with confidence!

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Elijah Fischer
January 6, 2026

Tristan gave my brother and I an amazing time on his brand new boat, teaching us different skills whilst also showing us how to drive well in all situations. Was super friendly and a great teacher.

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Steven R
December 23, 2025

I highly recommend booking a session with Tristian to anyone who is either new to boating or rediscovering their boating journey. Tristian is a skillful and patient educator and he is willing to share his knowledge and experience with students of all backgrounds. If you approach his sessions with openness, positivity, and a keen ear, you will be rewarded with some real gems to cherish as you build your own boating experience.

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Qi Jiang
December 3, 2025

I had an excellent experience with Tristian as my private boating coach. He understood everything I asked perfectly and explained things clearly with a great communication throughout the session. His boating knowledge is truly impressive, and he shared tips and the insides that were both practical and easy to apply. I left the lesson feeling much more confident and the better propelled thanks to his expertise. Highly recommend Tristian to anyone looking for a skilled and reliable instructor.

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KW
November 28, 2025

My husband and I have been training (and a sunset and evening cruise!) with Tristian since August last year, and he is honestly one of the best operators you’ll ever meet. He’s professional, patient, funny, and makes every session feel relaxed and enjoyable — even when you’re learning something new. We always walk away feeling more confident, and every time on the water with him becomes a beautiful memory. If you’re looking for training, a skipper, or just an unforgettable day out, we can’t recommend him enough. A genuinely good person and an exceptional instructor. Thanks so much, Tristian — see you again soon!

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Liz Mac
November 25, 2025

Tristan and Dave were both super responsive, helpful and pleasant to deal with. I had lessons using our own boat in our local waters which was just what I needed to be more confident on the water. Dave was an extremely experienced skipper who had a lot of knowledge to share - both my husband and I learned so much from him - we’ve changed things around on our boat and we are buying a few other items for safety and ease of using the boat. During the lessons we did a mix of practical things like mooring and anchoring as well as setting a passage for the morning. Dave was always pleasant and upbeat and just a really great teacher - we always felt safe with Dave and had a lot of fun too. I highly recommend both Dave and Tristan for boating lessons or getting your boat licence.

From Learner to Licence-Ready in Four Clear Steps

Complete the theory, official knowledge test and practical on-water training in one supportive day.
Delivered with Maritime Training School · NSW Maritime-approved · RTO 91487
How it works:

Theory Training

Learn the essentials in our waterfront classroom:

  • Rules of the water and right-of-way
  • Buoyage systems and navigation signs
  • Safety equipment and emergency procedures
  • Boat types, fuel systems and legal requirements

Official Knowledge Test

  • Complete the official 50-question knowledge test
  • Friendly instructor support throughout
  • Results confirmed on the day

Practical Sydney Harbour Training

  • Manoeuvring at low and high speeds
  • Docking, anchoring and safe berthing
  • Handling wind, swell and changing conditions
  • Emergency drills and crew safety

NO PRACTICAL LOGBOOK REQUIRED

Receive Your Course Completion Paperwork

Once you have successfully completed the course, we’ll provide the paperwork you need to apply for your licence at Service NSW. The government licence fee is paid separately and directly to Service NSW.

COURSE COMPLETE. APPLY AND PAY AT SERVICE NSW.

Optional Upgrade - Add Your Jet Ski (PWC) Licence

Want to get licensed to ride a jet ski too?

Add PWC to your booking and sit the additional 15-question exam after your boat course for an extra $120.

No practical session required for PWC. Please bring two passport photos for your application.

Book in with Jet Ski (PWC) Licence
Smiling jet ski rider wearing a life jacket on Sydney Harbour

Practical Info

Training Location

Mosman Bay Sea Scouts


5 Centenary Drive, Mosman NSW 2088

Start your day in our waterfront Mosman Bay classroom before heading onto Sydney Harbour for practical, real world boat training.

Who Is This Course For?

  • First time boaters getting started on the water

  • New boat owners needing their NSW Boat Licence
  • Teens aged 12+ beginning their boating journey

  • Anyone wanting to avoid a practical logbook or further testing

True Confidence Starts Here

“BoatWise helped me go from nervous around marinas and swell to genuinely calm and confident at the helm. Getting my licence was just the beginning.”

Sophie M, BoatWise graduate

Sophie M, BoatWise graduate

Ready to Get Your NSW Boat Licence?

Book a one-day NSW Boat Licence course in Mosman Bay with theory, the official knowledge test and practical Sydney Harbour training included. No practical logbook. No further testing.

From $430 incl. GST • Mosman Bay • Maximum 12 students
Ask a Licence Question
Course FAQS

Boat Licence FAQs

You need a NSW general boat licence to drive a recreational powered vessel at 10 knots, which is 18.5 km/h, or faster. A PWC, commonly called a Jet Ski, requires a PWC licence at any speed. A licence is generally not required for a powered vessel operated below 10 knots or for unpowered craft.
You can apply for a NSW general boat licence from age 12. Special restrictions apply to licence holders under 16, including restrictions on speed, night driving, towing and operating a PWC without an eligible accompanying licence holder.
Your one-day course includes theory training, preparation for the official knowledge test, the 50-question test and approved on-water practical training on Sydney Harbour. After successful completion, you receive the evidence needed to apply for your licence at Service NSW.
Yes. The NSW general boat licence knowledge test has 50 multiple-choice questions. BoatWise prepares you throughout the day and our instructors support you through the process, with the test completed as part of your course.
No. BoatWise provides an approved on-water practical course through an Authorised Training Provider, so you do not need to complete a separate practical logbook. The alternative NSW pathway is a minimum of three trips in a powered vessel with an experienced skipper recorded in the official logbook.
You must apply for your licence within 12 months of completing your practical experience and passing the knowledge test. Apply before either piece of evidence expires so you do not need to repeat a requirement.
Take your proof of identity, course and practical completion evidence, and any required eyesight or medical information. You will also pay the applicable NSW Government licence fee. PWC applicants must provide two passport-acceptable photos.
After successfully completing the BoatWise course, take your approved paperwork to a Service NSW centre and pay the government licence fee. Service NSW issues your licence after accepting the application. You can also access a digital licence through the Service NSW app once it is available in your account.
The BoatWise course fee of $430 including GST is separate from the NSW Government licence fee. From 1 July 2026, adult general boat licence fees are $82 for 1 year, $233 for 3 years, $372 for 5 years and $720 for 10 years. Concession and under-16 rates are lower, and government fees may change.
Yes. You must hold or obtain a general boat licence first, then pass the additional 15-question PWC knowledge test. No extra practical experience is required, but you will need two passport-acceptable photos. BoatWise offers the PWC upgrade with this course for an additional $120.
The course is held at Mosman Bay Sea Scouts, 5 Centenary Drive, Mosman NSW 2088. Theory takes place in our waterfront classroom, followed by practical boat training on Sydney Harbour. Multiple course dates are available each week.
Safety and Preparation
Life jackets, communication, and crew positioning for safe boating
High-Speed Handling
Manage trim, stability, and wave conditions for a smoother ride
Low-Speed Handling
Manoeuvre in tight spaces, control drift, and handle wind & tide
Rules of the Water
Understand right-of-way, navigation signs, and how to manage busy waterways
Boating Skills
Anchor like a pro, berth confidently, and secure your vessel with proper mooring techniques
Emergency Situations
Respond quickly to distress calls, recover a person overboard, and use a marine radio effectively
Personal Equipment
Know what to wear, the importance of safety gear, and how to prepare for any trip
Parts of the Boat
Learn key terminology and understand how your vessel operates
Types of Craft
Get to know different hull types, engines, and fuel systems
Basic Weather and Tides
Read forecasts, understand sea conditions, and plan trips safely
Buoyage and Collision Regulations
Navigate confidently while following international boating rules
Onboard Safety and Legal Responsibilities
Understand everything required to skipper safely and legally

Reserve your spot

Spots are limited on the day, so book in quick to secure a spot.
We can't wait to see you out on the water!
Still need help? Give us a call

Still need help? Give us a call

Need Help?

If you're unsure or need a question answered about our courses or packages, please feel free to call us on 0481 877 912 leave a message below and we'll get back to you.
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