RYA Powerboat 1
RYA Level 1
Introduction to Powerboating
Course Syllabus
AIM: To provide a practical introduction to boat handling and safety in powerboats.
SECTION A
Practical boat handling
Launching and recovery: (8 to 11 year olds to observe this session only)
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
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
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 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 warps
Use of a 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
Make 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:
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