RYA Level 1 Start Powerboating

Course details

This course is an introduction to boating techniques for launching and recovering a boat from a road trailer, everyday boat handling and the use of safety equipment.

Our training boat Trinity is a sturdy catamaran certified by the RYA for powerboat training. We use catamarans / hard bottom boats rather than RIBs for training.

Age requirements

Minimum age 8.

Candidates under the age of 16 will be issued with an endorsed certificate.

Course content

The syllabus is split between classroom theory and water-based practical tuition, covering the following topics: 

• Personal and boat preparation 
• Launching and returning to shore 
• Basic boat controls 
• Theory of towing 
• Local byelaws and insurance 
• Crewing and routines 
• Awareness of other water users 
• Basic close down procedures 

You will also get plenty of hands-on driving as we tutor you through skills such as: 

• Planing at speed 
• Picking up a mooring 
• Coming alongside
•  ‘Rule of the Road’ - International Regulations for Prevention of Collisions at Sea (IRPCS) 

Ability after the course

• Able to drive under supervision