The Level 2 Powerboat Handling Course provides the skills and background knowledge needed by a competent powerboat driver. It is the standard required for an International Certificate of Competence (ICC) and widely regarded as the "Powerboat Driving Licence".
The 2-day course runs for 2 consecutive days from 9:00 am until 5:00 pm each day - Saturday and Sunday of the same weekend, or two weekdays for example (minimum 16 hours duration). Note that the date shown on Eventbrite is only the first day of two.
Most sessions will be out on the water, hands-on. Our venue, Cheddar reservoir, is ideal for powerboat training as it offers enhanced safety and accessibility compared with similar courses in coastal locations.
The course is delivered by qualified RYA Powerboat Instructors from Cheddar Watersports, an RYA Recognised Training Centre. The maximum student / Instructor ratio will be 3:1.
All elements of the RYA Level 2 syllabus are covered in practical sessions or in short classroom sessions to comply with the RYA course syllabus. The syllabus blends safe driving skills with knowledge of the marine environment, navigation techniques, awareness of different types of craft and emergency procedures.
Digital navigation will be taught, since paper charts are soon to be withdrawn by publishers
No prior knowledge or boating experience is necessary.
How Much Will it Cost?
The 2-day course fee for non-members is £290.00 , including the RYA course text "Start Powerboating". Non-members fee also includes short term club membership.
For current BCYC members the fee is reduced to just £190.00
In addition, if you would like to purchase an RYA Powerboat logbook, these can be obtained on the day for £8.00
Online payment through EventBrite is required when booking.
Please note: This course has limited availability.
FAQs
What benefits are there in being qualified to RYA Level 2?
You will develop new skills, knowledge and confidence to safely drive powerboats up to 10m in length. For UK passport holders, successfully completing Level 2 also allows the RYA to issue an International Certificate of Competence, which is commonly required when hiring boats in many countries overseas. The ICC is free for RYA members, charged for non-members.
Are there minimum age requirements?
Yes, to meet RYA and Club safety requirements, the minimum age is 12. There are restrictions on young drivers below the age of 16, who may only drive powerboats under adult supervision.
I completed the club's Powerboat Introduction Course already. Do I still need to do 2 days? Yes, the Level 2 course is a self-contained 2 days. Although some of the topics are similar, they are all covered in greater detail at Level 2.
Is there a difference completing the course Inland or at a Coastal centre?
The RYA removed the Inland / Coastal endorsement from Powerboat Level 2 courses in April 2019. Any course offered by a RYA Recognised Training Centre will cover the full syllabus and be certified in the same way, whether in a coastal/tidal location or elsewhere.
What should I wear?
We spend most of the day afloat, so please bring appropriate clothing for the weather. A dry suit or wet suit, with additional layers in cold weather, is recommended as you may get wet, Warm waterproofs are advised for the winter, plenty of sun cream in the summer. You will also need wet shoes/old trainers and a buoyancy aid (although we can provide one if you do not have your own).
How many others will be on the course with me?
The student to instructor ratio will be 3:1 maximum. Where possible, we operate a 2:1 ratio, to provide students with the maximum amount of time behind the wheel
Will there be a lunch break?
Tea and Coffee are available for a small charge, but you should bring a packed lunch. We take a working lunch of 30 minutes.
Are there any books I can look at beforehand?
The RYA Start Powerboating booklet G48 is included with the course. The RYA Powerboat Handbook is a useful reference, while "Powerboating: The Rib and Sportsboat Handbook" by Peter White is our recommendation.
Do I need to bring anything else to the course with me?
A recent passport-sized photograph is needed for the course completion certificate. Please bring this along with you at the start of the course, with your name written on the back of the photo.
A pen, pencil and notebook (waterproof if possible) will also be useful.
Do the organisers need any other information from me?
We need you to tell us about any medical conditions that might affect your safe participation on the course. Your instructor will need details of any medical treatment being received, or if you suffer from epilepsy, giddy spells, asthma, diabetes, heart condition, back problems or anything else you believe may affect you during your time with us. Please note that medical conditions need not prevent you from taking part, but it is important we are aware. If you are in any doubt about your fitness to take part in a practical powerboat course, please ask your GP for advice.
How can I contact the organisers with any questions?
You can send email queries to our Powerboat training co-ordinator pbtadmin@bcyc.org.uk
