This 1 day course provides a practical introduction to boat handling skills and is ideal for younger members of the boating family.

Launch and recovery (8-11 year olds observe) Preparation of boat and crew, boat handling, picking up and securing to a mooring buoy, leaving and coming alongside, being towed.

Duration 1 Day 9.00am – 4.00pm
Cost £175.00
Minimum Age Candidates under the age of 16 will be issued with an endorsed certificate
Course content Practical:
1. Launching and recovery
Knowledge of:
Considerations to be taken during the launch
The use of a trailer or launching trolley
Consideration to be taken regarding sea conditions and hazards
Construction, width and condition of ramp/slipway
Can:
Launch a boat safely & make informed judgment on is it safe to go to sea2. Preparation of boat and crew:
Understands:
Personal buoyancy and appropriate clothing
the use of the following equipment: lines, fenders, anchor and warp, bailer, fire extinguisher, pump, paddles or oars, compass, flares, torch, whistle, charts, first aid kit, sharp knife
Can:
Prepare boat and equipment for the water and ensure all crew are suitably equipped (PPE)
3. Boat Handling:Knowledge of:
Planning boats: propeller angle and immersion, use of shallow drive
Low speed handling: ahead and astern
Displacement boats: handling ahead and astern, carrying way in neutral

Understands:
How to carry out pre-start checks, including fuel tank and fuel bulb
Steering controls
Can:
Steer and control boat speed
Start and stop engine
Demonstrate the use of an appropriate length kill cord at all times
4. Picking up and securing to a mooring buoy:
Knowledge of:
Preparation of mooring warps
Use of a boat hook
Method of approach
Crew communication
Making fast

5. Leaving and coming alongside:
Knowledge of:
Wind effect
Approach in tidal stream or current
Understands:
Leaving – ahead or astern
Can:
Demonstrate the use of painter, lines and fenders, attachment to boat, stowage under way
Control speed and angle of approach
Make fast alongside
6. Being towed:
Knowledge of:
Preparing own lines for towing
Accepting a tow
Securing tow lines
Trim and balance under tow

SECTION B
Theory:
Knowledge of:
Loading and balancing the boat and the effect on handling and performance
Local byelaws and insurance
Understands:
Crew numbers: minimum number in the boat, keeping a look-out
Awareness of other water users, including effect of wash
Application of IRPCS. Understands rules 5, 6, and conduct around commercial shipping in confined waters
Total number of places on Course 3

Support Course: RYA Online Essential Navigation and Seamanship Course, RYA VHF Radio, RYA Sea Survival, RYA First Aid

Next Step: RYA Advanced Powerboat

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