RYA Powerboat Level One

Aim: to provide a practical introduction to boat handling in powerboats. The one day course may be conducted in a variety of boat types, both planing and displacement and the certificate issued will be endorsed accordingly. The ratio of students to instructors should not exceed 3:1.

Duration: 1 day minimum

Minimum age: 8
8 to 11 year olds will receive the Level 1 certificate which will be endorsed (the holder should only use powered craft under the supervision of a responsible adult in the vessel).
12 to 16 year olds will receive a Level 1 certificate which will be endorsed (the holder should only use powered craft under the supervision of a responsible adult).

SECTION A: PRACTICAL

Launch and Recovery (8 to 11 year olds to observe this session only) - knowledge of:

Considerations to be taken during the launch
Use of trailer and/or launching trolley.
Consideration of different launching conditions and surfaces.
Construction, width and condition of ramp/slipway

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:

Perform the following: fasten to a cleat and stow an anchor

Boat Handling - knowledge of:

Planing 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 and windage.

Can:

Steer and control boat speed
Start and stop the engine
Demonstrate the use of an appropriate length kill cord at all times

Picking Up and Securing to a Mooring Buoy - knowledge of:

Preparation of mooring warp.
Use of boat hook.
Method of approach.
Crew communication.
Making fast.

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.
Making fast alongside.

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:

Crewmembers: minimum number in the boat, keeping a lookout.
Awareness of other water users, including effect of wash.
Application of IRPCS. Understands rules 5, 6, and conduct around commercial shipping in confined waters