Hamble Point Marina, Saltmakers House, School Lane, Hamble-le-Rice, Southampton, SO31 4NB. Final boarding details are confirmed on booking.

RYA Certified Training Courses

Powerboat Experience

Q: How long does the experience last?

Three hours on the water from departure to return.

Q: Do we get to drive the boat?

Yes. You will have supervised, hands-on helm time with an instructor.

Q: Is it suitable for complete beginners?

Yes. No previous powerboating experience is required.

Q: What is included in the price?

Use of the training vessel, a professional instructor and all required safety equipment.

Q: What should we wear or bring?

Non-marking shoes, warm and waterproof layers, sunglasses, sun protection and any personal medication. Soft bags are best.

Q: What happens if the weather is poor?

Safety comes first. If conditions are unsuitable, we will discuss options and offer an alternative date.

Q: Is this a private session for our group?

Yes. The session is arranged for your group of up to six people.

Q: Are children allowed?

Under-18s are welcome with a parent or guardian and at the instructor’s discretion. Please ask when booking.

From £375.00

The Powerboat Experience is a three-hour on-the-water adventure in the Solent, perfect for anyone considering buying or chartering a powerboat, or simply wanting to experience the thrill of powerboating for the first time.

Designed for up to six people, this hands-on experience gives you the opportunity to take the helm under expert guidance, enjoy stunning coastal scenery, and build confidence on the water — all without the commitment of a formal course.

Book Now

Experience Overview & What You’ll Do

The Powerboat Experience is a relaxed and enjoyable introduction to powerboating, combining hands-on time at the helm with a scenic cruise through the Solent. You’ll be guided by an experienced instructor throughout, ensuring a safe and memorable experience.

What You’ll Do:

– Learn the basics of operating a powerboat
– Take the helm and practise simple boat handling
– Understand how the boat responds to throttle and steering
– Receive a safety briefing and introduction to onboard equipment
– Enjoy a scenic cruise through the Solent

The experience is tailored to your group, allowing everyone to get involved at a comfortable pace.

Who This Experience Is For

This experience is ideal for anyone curious about powerboating or looking for a memorable day out on the water.

Perfect for:

- Prospective boat owners wanting to try before they buy
- Families or friends looking for a shared experience
- Charterers preparing for a boating holiday
- Complete beginners with no previous experience
- Gift experiences and special occasions

No prior boating knowledge is required — just a sense of adventure.

Do I Need Any Experience?

No previous boating or powerboat experience is required.

Your instructor will tailor the experience to your comfort level, whether you want to take the helm or simply enjoy the ride and scenery.

What’s Included

This is a private group experience designed for flexibility and enjoyment.

- Duration: Approximately 3 hours
- Price: £375.00
- Group size: Up to 6 people
- Includes: Instructor, fuel, safety equipment and use of the vessel

If you don’t see a suitable date available, please contact us and we’ll do our best to accommodate your preferred time.

Where It Takes Place

The Powerboat Experience takes place in the Solent, one of the UK’s most iconic boating destinations.

With its mix of sheltered waters, open stretches and stunning coastal scenery, it provides the perfect setting for an unforgettable experience on the water.

FAQs

How many people can take part?

How long does the experience last?

Do we get to drive the boat?

Is it suitable for complete beginners?

What is included in the price?

Where do we meet?

What should we wear or bring?

What happens if the weather is poor?

Is this a private session for our group?

Are children allowed?

Customer Reviews

“Cloud Nine is a fantastic boat that handles the sea well-lots of power to get on the plane and kept going if you wanted it. My wife who is not the most confident boater said she wasn’t worried as the boat always felt planted to the water. Rob is a really great guy very laid back and gives you confidence going over the boat and its equipment to give you a great day out on the water.”

Star Google Rating – Trusted by Happy Customers

Martin Gordon

“Rob skippered us and our 35ft Sailboat from Portishead to Falmouth. We encountered weather and issues on the boat which without Rob’s leadership, skill and confidence would have caused us to turn back. On the 36 hour journey Rob was consistently professional and friendly, providing coaching and friendly pointers throughout. The entire journey felt like a very easy lesson and we will benefit for many years to come from Rob’s advice and the simple standards he set aboard. Can’t thank him enough and will definitely be in touch in future!.”

Ricky Velai

“Great School, great instructors, great boat, highly recommend taking course with these guys. Instructor Ramos was a great teacher”

Antony Clark

Do you have a question?

Not sure about something? No need to worry, we are here to help and are happy to answer your questions. Send us a message using this form and we will get back to you as soon as possible.