This unit describes the skills required to operate small watercraft. It includes the requirement to prepare the watercraft for operations, to conduct buoyancy calculations, to carry out appropriate tasks, and to clean and maintain the watercraft. While the technical aspects of this competency are concerned with ‘operating a boat’, the specialisation of the skill, and safety issues associated with waterborne operations confer additional responsibilities upon the operator. For all watercraft operations the individual may need to provide directions to personnel within the boat concerning specific safety matters such as seating, movement and actions on incidents such as man overboard and capsize.The watercraft will normally be operated:in protected or calm watersday or nightin training, on exercise and on operationsThis unit applies to those required to operate small watercraft to conduct a range of tasks including:transporting personnel and/or equipment across waterassisting mounting and maintaining wet crossing activitiespatrolling range boundariesrecovering proof ordnanceThe skills and knowledge described in this unit must be applied within the legislative, regulatory and policy environment in which they are carried out. Organisational policies and procedures must be consulted and adhered to.Those undertaking this unit will usually work independently under indirect supervision, demonstrating sound judgement in the use of authority and making independent decisions. They would perform routine tasks in a range of contexts that are sometimes unfamiliar and unpredictable.No licensing, legislative or certification requirements apply to unit at the time of publication.