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As a family of sailors, we were delighted when our teenage daughter Skye decided to take her Power Boat RYA Level 2 training and even happier when she passed with flying colours. Skye completed the course during the Christmas holidays, so it was a bit cold, but that didn’t put her off. Congratulations, Skye, another certificate well earned.
The RYA Level 2 Powerboat Handling course is a two-day course that provides the skills and background knowledge required to drive a powerboat. The course includes high-speed manoeuvres, launch and recovery, passage planning, reversing, man over aboard, knots, turning in a confined space and much more.
We spoke to Skye to find out more about her experience…
Firstly, congratulations on passing! Can you tell us why you wanted to complete the course?
Skye: I wanted to take the course so if I was ever in a situation where I had to take control of a boat, I can. It also means I can help others either by getting them and their boat to safety or simply going on an adventure. I think it is a really useful skill to have.
Did you have any concerns about the course?
Skye: No, I have been looking forward to the course, and it has been something I have wanted to do for a while.
What part of the course did you enjoy the most?
Skye: I really enjoyed the emergency stops and learning how to turn the boat around in its own circle. It was also great to meet new people.
Did you find anything difficult?
Skye: I found it a bit tricky learning how to moor alongside another boat, but after lots of practice, it became much easier.
Did you find it easier or harder than you expected?
Skye: Easier, as I thought it would be more technical with lots of buttons to learn.
What was the course like, and what did you learn?
Skye: Over the two days, some of the skills I have learnt are…
- how to launch a boat and bring the boat back in
- Completing checks on the boat before launching
- Checking the weather conditions
- Learning about what dangers the speedboat can cause and how to prevent accidents
- How to drive the boat carefully and bring people back to safety
- How to perform emergency stops
The course is very informative, and we covered a lot. I would recommend this course to anyone.
If you are interested in completing your power boat RYA level 2 training or any other courses, please visit RYA courses and qualifications for more information.
Skye undertook her training at Burton Sailing Club, so we want to say a massive thank you to them and their instructors.
