What to Practise During Own Boat Tuition
A berth that feels simple with an instructor aboard can feel very different when it is your own hull, your own controls, and your own routine. That is why own boat tuition works best when it has a clear focus. The aim is not just to spend time with an instructor. It is to use […]
What to Expect from a Private Skippered Boat Charter
A private skippered boat charter can be a very different experience from simply booking a boat trip. You are not joining a fixed itinerary with a crowd on board. You have a boat, a professional skipper, and a day shaped around your group, your pace, and the conditions on the water. That makes it appealing […]
How to Prepare for ICC Assessment
If you have an ICC assessment coming up, the biggest mistake is treating it like a theory test with a bit of boat handling added on. The assessor is looking for something more practical than that. They want to see that you can operate a boat safely, make sensible decisions, and stay in control without […]
Do You Need an ICC for Boating Abroad?
Planning to take a boat abroad often starts with one awkward question at the marina office or charter desk: “Do you have an ICC?” In most cases, people are referring to the International Certificate of Competence, a recognised certificate that demonstrates practical boating ability and basic seamanship when using boats overseas. Having the right paperwork […]
How to Handle Tides in a Motorboat
A calm marina can turn awkward very quickly once the tide starts running across a berth or pushing through a narrow channel. That is why learning how to handle tides in a Motorboat is less about memorising theory and more about understanding what the water is doing to your boat, moment by moment. Tide affects […]
Powerboat Level 1 Explained for Beginners
Stepping onto a powerboat for the first time is exciting right up until the moment you are asked to take the helm. That is usually where nerves appear. A good powerboat level 1 for beginners course is built for exactly that moment – turning uncertainty into calm, practical control. This entry-level course is not about […]
How to Choose the Right RYA Course for Your Boating Goals
Choosing an RYA course can feel overwhelming at first. With so many options available, it is not always obvious which course is right for you. The key is understanding your boating goals and matching them to the skills and knowledge each course provides. RYA qualifications are designed to support boaters at every stage, from complete […]
New Year, New Hobby Why Marine Training Could Be Right For You
A new year often brings the urge to try something different. Lots of people want a hobby that feels genuinely enjoyable, but also gives something back, not just another short-lived resolution. Marine training can be a great fit. It’s practical, hands-on and confidence-building, and it can open the door to experiences you simply don’t get […]
Common Questions Beginners Ask About Learning to Sail
For many people, the idea of learning to sail is both exciting and a little daunting. Whether it’s the dream of taking a yacht across the Channel or simply enjoying a relaxed day on the water, the same questions crop up time and again from beginners. These are questions we hear regularly at Associated Marine […]
Am I Too Old to Take Up Sailing?
Many people dream of learning to sail but assume they’ve missed their chance because they didn’t start young. It’s a common concern: “Am I too old to take up sailing?” The short answer is no — it’s never too late. In fact, more and more people are discovering sailing for the first time in their […]