I'm a retired QMCS currently with the CG Auxiliary. A company we have been using to provide CPR/First Aid training asked if I could check on something for them. They provide survival training for pilots, etc and in doing so take them out in the Sound in a rather large Zodiac. Their question is: Does the operator need a Six Pack license to operated the Zodiac when transporting the trainees to the open water for training purposes? Haven't been able to get an answer anywhere. Thanks in advance.

Thanks for the reply. I don't know, but I don't think it's part of their contract. Let's see if someone does chime in from the M field.

William,

I assume the pilots are paying for the training or someone else is, and they are carrying less than 6 passengers then I would think a Six Pack License would apply. More than 6 passengers then the Zodiac itself would need a certificate of inspection which would state the manning of the vessel, and that would mean at least a License Master would be required. It would be up the Coast Guard (Goss tonnage of the Zodiac) to determine the tonnage of the Master required.

My suggestion is to call the nearest Marine Safety Office and ask them what would be required for this operation.

I notice on your profile that you were on the CGC White Pine when it came down to Group Mobile in 1976. I was over at Group Mobile during that time, and 8 years later I spent 4 years on her as XPO.

captrd

Ron, Thanks for the reply. I did contact NY and spoke with a Chief. Gave him their info and phone number but they never received a call. I'd hate to have them make the trip to NYC for nothing, but I think that may be the way for them to get the right answers.
Bill

Just off the top of my head I would say No you do not need a license for that.... As I understand it.. the company has someone that takes these people out into the sound for their training.... sound correct?

Anyhow, my "guess" is NO.. BUT.. I will get you the name & number of a person to call...


Wray...

I can't put my finger on Dave's phone number, but... here is his e-mail address... FYI, he is in charge of the Memphis REC.

Dave.Calvert@uscg.mil

Hope that helps....

Wray....

Thanks, Wray. I'll send him an e-mail. Have a good weekend
Bill

I'm curious to the final answer here. I would think they would be considered "passengers for hire" but this is not my area of expertise.

Don

Hi Bill. In looking through 46 US code, you'll find definitions of "passenger" and "consideration". Since the students are paying for the course, you have the consideration part. Since this appears to be a scheduled part of the course, (not some spur of the moment event) you now have passengers.
Smart money says that the boat operator would need an OUPV (six pack) license and could not carry more than 6 students at one time.

Everyone. Thanks for all the replies and good info. I received a couple of good e-mails that address the company's problems directly. I have forwarded them to the company rep. Hopefully their questions will be answered and the problem resolved. Out of my hands now, anyway. Thanks again!
Bill