It is assumed that students have no previous experience and the two-day course is designed to give confidence in handling a boat safely on the inland waterways. For those students who start with some experience the one-day course provides plenty of opportunity to improve ‘seamanship’, which enhances the enjoyment of inland waterways cruising. Those students successfully completing the course will be awarded a RYA Inland Waterways Helmsman Certificate, which could be converted to an International Certificate of Competence needed for boating on the Continent.

The course is very much ‘hands on’, with very little classroom time, and all the theory and practical elements are backed by the RYA Practical Course Notes. These notes are compiled specifically for inland waterways, and are issued to every student providing a permanent reference for future boating activities. The course is delivered by RYA-approved instructors, who have many years’ experience, using boats which carry a current Boat Safety Certificate, issued by British Waterways.

The syllabus will cover the following topics:
Deckwork.
Helmsmanship and boat handling.
Personal safety.
Boat safety.
Engines.
Locks.
Bridges and tunnels.
Collision avoidance.
Care of the environment.

To ensure maximum individual instruction each course is limited to two students, (three by arrangement). The day starts at 0900hrs; tuition and assessment should be completed by 1730hrs. Overnight accommodation is available at local guest houses or hotels. A light lunch and refreshments are included in the course fee.

Most of the course time is spent learning the boat-handling skills whilst cruising the Macclesfield and Peak Forest Canals - two of the most beautiful in the country. Because of its practical nature, the course may appeal to non-boaters just as a ‘fun day out’, giving an insight to life on the canals with their history, wild life and heritage. Alternatively, those considering a boating holiday or purchase of a boat may wish to acquire some prior experience.

Contact Malcolm or Alison on 0845 6446332 so that we can discuss your personal training requirements and current course fees.

Accommodation rates available on request.