~ OnWaterTraining.co.uk ~
Whilst not a recognised training centre, ~ OnWaterTraining.co.uk ~ is committed to the RYA standards and enthusiastically promotes the RYA scheme. We therefore include the following information to promote the RYA Powerboat scheme - full details at www.rya.org.uk.
The RYA National Powerboat Scheme is for those who use small, open powerboats for leisure or work, whether for their own sake or in connection with another activity such as sailing or rescue.
Examples of boats relevant to this scheme are sportsboats, RIBs, dories and launches which do not normally provide accommodation or cooking facilities. Training on boats with accommodation is covered by the RYA National Motor Cruising Scheme.
The powerboat scheme comprises a series of practical courses which can be complemented by navigation courses and other one-day support courses. Use them simply to increase your knowledge and confidence, or as a progression to the RYA/MCA Certificates of Competence which are recognised by maritime authorities worldwide.
Most courses take place over two days. RYA Training Centres only use experienced, qualified instructors on seaworthy boats with a maximum of four trainees (depending on the level of course). Gordon delivers the courses as a freelance instructor only at RYA Recognised Training Centres.
Courses can be taken either onboard a centre’s boat or your own boat if you wish.
You can enter the scheme at any level, provided that you have the correct level experience beforehand. Be realistic when assessing your current experience and abilities and, if in doubt, discuss your requirements with your chosen Training Centre before booking your course.
Children aged between 8 and 11 are able to take the Level 1 course, and once they are 12 they can take the Level 2 course. Their certificates will be endorsed to show that they must use boats only under the supervision of a responsible adult.
See www.rya.org.uk for more information or to find your local RYA recognised centre.
If you are an RYA recognised training centre and need a qualified RYA Instructor to deliver the RYA Powerboat Scheme, please get in touch with Gordon through the Contact Us page.
The RYA Level 1 Powerboat Course
Introduction to boating techniques for launching and recovering a boat from a road trailer everyday boat handling and the use of safety equipment.
Suggested minimum pre-course experience: None.
Assumed knowledge: None. Minimum age 8. Candidates under the age of 16 will be issued an endorsed certificate.
Course content: Launching and preparing the boat, basic boat handling and returning to shore. Background theory.
Ability after course: Able to drive under supervision.
Minimum duration: One day.
The RYA Level 2 Powerboat Course
Provides the skills and background knowledge needed by the competent powerboat driver and is the basis of the International Certificate of Competence.
Suggested minimum pre-course experience: None. May be preceded by Level 1.
Assumed knowledge: None. Minimum age 12. Candidates under the age of 16 will be issued an endorsed certifcate.
Course content: All you need to know for self-sufficient poweboating at a basic level. Course includes launching, mooring, anchoring and recovery plus all the boat driving skills required for basic competence in a powerboat. Some navigation and rules of the road.
Ability after course: Self-sufficient powerboater in the right conditions: aware of own limitations and those of craft.
Minimum duration: Two days.
The RYA Intermediate Powerboat Course
Covers the practical use of pilotage and passage planning by day on coastal waters using both traditional and electronic navigational techniques.
Suggested minimum pre-course experience: Level 2 Powerboat Course and some basic knowledge of navigation and pilotage.
Assumed knowledge: Minimum age 16. Candidates should be competent to the standard of National Powerboat Certificate Level 2 with the coastal endorsement.
Course content: A progression from Level 2, introducing pilotage, navigation and boat handling techniques for planing boats on coastal waters by day.
Ability after course: Able to plan and execute short coastal passages by day.
Minimum duration: Two days.
There are other courses which both follow on and complement the above. For more information visit the RYA via our link on the Our Colleagues page.