Powerboat and Club Introduction Course Course Information
The Powerboat Introduction Course is a 1-day training course for new and existing Bristol Corinthian club members aged 16+. The cost is included in club membership fees, and this day counts as one of your years duty days. No previous boating experience is required.
Our day will run from 9:30 am until 4.30 pm approximately. Please bring sandwiches or a suitable packed lunch. We take a working lunch break of 30-45 minutes. Drinks are available for a small charge as normal.
The course covers the basics of safely launching and operating the club's powerboats at Cheddar reservoir. After successfully completing the course, your club membership will be upgraded to allow you to drive the club powerboats. Although our syllabus is mostly drawn from the RYA Powerboat scheme, this course is not RYA certificated.
We will explain and demonstrate the club procedures for storage, preparation and correct use of club boats and equipment. There will also be simple rescue exercises, designed to help you when on duty at the club.
.... and it's a fun way to meet other new members!
FAQs
Q: What should I wear?
A: We spend mos of the day afloat, so please bring appropriate clothing for the weather. A dry suit or wet suit, with additional layers in cold weather, is recommended as you may get wet. Warm waterproofs are advised for the winter, plenty of sun cream in the summer. You will also need wet shoes/old trainers and a buoyancy aid (BA), although we can provide a BA if you do not have your own.
Q: As a BCYC club member, do I need to complete this course?
A: The club operates a duty rota system which relies on its members to provide adequate levels of safety boat cover. We need competent people to provide that cover. As a minimum, we ask that at least one person from each membership has completed this course.
Q: Are there minimum age requirements?
A: Yes, to meet RYA and club safety requirements, the minimum age is 16. Since the main purpose of the course is to allow members to safely complete their club duty days, priority will be given to members aged 18+. From time to time we run RYA training courses for Juniors.
Q: I completed a Powerboat Level 2 course elsewhere. Do I still need to do this course?
A: Holders of the Level 2 certificate will still need to complete this course, as it covers club induction as well as rescue techniques not covered in the PB L2 course. Those with wider experience and more advanced RYA Powerboat qualifications should contact us to discuss their individual circumstances.
Q: Do the organisers need any other information from me?
A: We need you to tell us about any existing medical conditions that might affect your safe participation in the course. Some elements of the course involve moderate physical exercise - launching and moving boats, climbing aboard, etc. Your instructor will need to be aware of anything you believe may affect you during your time with us. Please note that medical conditions need not prevent you from taking part. If you are in any doubt about your fitness to participate in a practical powerboat course, your GP should be able to advise. We will also need a phone number for your emergency contact.
Q: Are there any books I can look at beforehand?
A: The RYA Start Powerboating and RYA Powerboat Handbook are useful references, as is 'Powerboating: The Rib and Sportsboat Handbook'; by Peter White
Q: How can I contact the organisers with any questions?
A: You can send email queries to our Powerboat training co-ordinator pbtadmin@bcyc.org.uk