The RYA Powerboat course Level 1 is a good introduction to powerboating.
The Level 1 powerboat course aims to provide a practical introduction to powerboating in an RYA course. This course takes one day. To take part in this powerboat course you do not require any previous boating experience or powerboat training.
The Powerboat Level 1 course suits those who are keen for a basic introduction to powerboating. Those thinking of chartering a powerboat can get a good idea about boating by attending, and partners of boaters can use the course to acquire the skills necessary to handle a craft in an emergency if their partner is incapacitated. Those with their own boat, or acquiring one, should take the Powerboat Level 2 course (which covers things in far more depth) – achieving Powerboat Level 1 is NOT a prerequisite before attending Powerboat Level 2 training so Powerboat Level 1 can be bypassed if required.
Your instructor will cover the following topics with you during your day with him/her:
- Launch and recovery
- Preparation of boat
- Boat Handling
- Picking up and securing to a mooring buoy
- Leaving and coming alongside
- Being Towed
The shore-based element of the day will cover personal buoyancy, insurance, loading and how this effects handling and performance, balance and trim, crew members, awareness of other water users, application of the collision regulations (IRPCS), local bylaws and accepting a tow and rope work.