Small boat (IRB) operations

Boating operations from AAD stations must have station leader approval, and are only conducted for scientific, logistic, training or emergency purposes.

Using a single boat in Antarctica, even in the vicinity of the stations, can be hazardous due to unpredictable offshore winds. For example, an engine failure, even close to shore, on a windy day, can be very dangerous. Therefore all single engine boats must be operated in tandem except under special circumstances.

IRB operators should have completed an AAD IRB driving course and hold a Restricted Coxswain certificate as a minimum. Barge and work boat operators must have a full Coxswain's ticket. Operators should familiarise themselves with procedures specific to their vessel.

Iceberg in Kista Strait (looking from IRB), Frammes Mountains in background

Iceberg in Kista Strait, Frammes Mountains in background.
Photo: I. Harris
Expeditioners in two rubber boats near rocky shore
IRBs are used extensively on Macquarie Island
Photo: P. Yates
Expeditioners pushing the rubber zodiac back out to sea at Macquarie Island
Launching an IRB through surf at Macquarie Island
Photo: J. Wruck

See also:

This page was last modified on June 29, 2011.