Personal safety and pre-launch checks, kill cord use, low-speed boat control, coming alongside, picking up a mooring buoy, being towed, man overboard recovery and basic rules of the road.

Non-marking shoes, warm and waterproof layers, sun protection, snacks or lunch, and any personal medication.

RYA Powerboat Level 1 Course – beginner boat handling and safety training for new powerboaters

RYA Certified Training Courses

RYA Powerboat Level 1 Course

Q: Who is this course for?

Beginners and families who want a first, confidence-building day on the helm.

Q: Do I need any previous experience?

No. No prior powerboating experience is required.

Q: How long is the course?

One day, typically six to eight hours including safety briefings and on-water practice.

Q: What is the minimum age?

School boat minimum age is 12. On your own boat, the minimum age is 8 and certificates for ages 8 to 15 are issued as endorsed.

Q: Where is the course held?

Saltmakers House, Hamble Point Marina, School Lane, Hamble-le-Rice, Southampton, SO31 4NB.

Q: Is it mostly practical?

Yes. The day blends short classroom briefings with plenty of on-water helming.

Q: What is the student ratio?

Maximum of three students per instructor per boat.

Q: Does this give me the ICC?

Level 1 does not qualify for the ICC. Most candidates progress to Powerboat Level 2, which enables an ICC application.

From £199.00

The RYA Powerboat Level 1 Course is a one-day introductory course designed to teach the essential safety skills and basic boat handling needed to enjoy time on the water with confidence. Ideal for individuals and families, this course provides a fun and supportive introduction to powerboating.

You’ll learn key safety procedures, pre-departure checks and basic manoeuvres, helping you feel comfortable and capable afloat. It’s the perfect first step before progressing to further powerboat training or enjoying time on the water with friends or family.

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Course Overview & What You’ll Learn

The RYA Powerboat Level 1 Course is a practical introduction to powerboating, focusing on safety, basic handling and confidence on the water. Delivered over one day, the course combines short theory sessions with plenty of hands-on practical time afloat.

You’ll learn how to:

You’ll receive everything you need to enjoy a safe and confidence-building first experience on the water, with expert instruction throughout.

Prepare the boat and crew before going afloat
Understand basic boat terminology and key parts of the vessel
Carry out essential safety checks and equipment use
Launch and recover a powerboat safely
Handle a powerboat at low speed
Come alongside and leave a berth
Pick up and secure to a mooring buoy
Be towed safely
Carry out basic man overboard recovery techniques

The course is designed to be enjoyable and informative, building confidence while ensuring safe development throughout the day.

Who Is This Course For?

This course is ideal for anyone looking to get started with powerboating in a relaxed and supportive environment.

Ideal for:

Complete beginners with no previous experience
Individuals wanting a safe introduction to powerboating
Families who want to experience boating together
Those planning future sailing or powerboating activities
Anyone unsure if spending leisure time afloat is right for them

The course is suitable for adults and younger participants, making it an excellent option for family groups.

Experience Required & Entry Requirements

No previous boating or powerboat experience is required to take the RYA Powerboat Level 1 Course.

Key requirements:

Minimum age: 12 years
Participants aged 12–15 years will receive an endorsed certificate
Under-18s should review the RYA Youth Powerboat scheme

We can recommend optional pre-course reading, and all suggested books and a Powerboat logbook can be purchased from us if required.

Course Duration, Price & Certification

This is a one-day practical course designed to provide a safe and enjoyable introduction to powerboating.

Key course details:

Price: From £199.00
Duration: 1 day
Student ratio: Maximum of 3 students per instructor/boat
Certification: RYA Powerboat Level 1 Certificate

Successful completion provides a recognised RYA qualification and a strong foundation for further powerboat training.

Course Locations & Training Areas

RYA Powerboat Level 1 courses are delivered in sheltered waters suitable for beginners, providing a safe and controlled environment for learning.

Training locations will be confirmed at booking and are chosen to ensure the best possible experience on the day.

FAQs

Who is this course for?

Do I need any previous experience?

How long is the course?

What will I learn?

What is the minimum age?

Where is the course held?

Is it mostly practical?

What should I bring?

What is the student ratio?

Does this give me the ICC?

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

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