Aim: To provide a practical introduction to boat handling and safety in powerboats.  Free Boat Parts Lesson

The course may be conducted in a variety of boat types, both planing and displacement, and the certificate issued will be endorsed to show the type(s) of boats in which the training took place. The ratio of students to instructors should not exceed 3:1.

Course duration: 1 day.

Minimum age 8 years old.

Section A Practical boat handling launch and recovery (8-11 year olds to observe this session only) Knowledge of: Considerations to taken during launch The use of a trailer or launching trolley Considerations to be taken regarding sea conditions and hazards Ramp/Slipway Construction Condition Width Length Preparation of boat and crew Understands: Personal bouyancy and approriate clothing The use of the following equiptment: Lines Fenders Anchor Anchor 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 Stow an Anchor Boat handling Knowledge of: Planing boats: Propeller angle and immersion Use of shallow drive Low speed handling: Ahead Astern Displacement boats: Handling ahead and astern Carrying way in neutral Understands: How to carry out pre-start checks: Fuel tank Fuel Bulb Steering: Controls Windage Can: Steer and control boat speed Start and stop the engine Demonstrate the use of an appropriate length of kill cord at all times Picking up and securing to a mooring buoy Knowledge of: Preparation of mooring warps Use of boat hook Method of approach Crew communication Making fast Leaving and coming along side Knowledge of: Wind effect Approach in tidal stream or current Leaving - Ahead or Astern Can: Demonstrate the use of: Painter Lines Fenders Attachment to boat Stowage under way Control speed and angle of approach Make fast along side 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 Effect of wash Application of IRPCS rules: Understands: Rules 5 and 6 Conduct around commercial shipping in confined waters

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