RYA Powerboat Level 1 – Everything You Need To Know
The goal of the RYA Powerboat Level 1 course is to give an introduction to boat handling and safety in powerboats.
What does the RYA Powerboat Level 1 entail?
The RYA Powerboat Level 1 course covers an introduction to life on the water as a powerboater.
| Type | Practical |
| Duration | 1 day |
| Minimum Age | 8 |
| Experience Required | None |
Who can do an RYA Powerboat Level 1 course?
The RYA Powerboat Level 1 course is open to anyone who is 8 years or older.
What do you need to know before going on the course?
There are no prerequisites. If you already have powerboat experience, then the RYA Powerboat Level 2 is likely a more suitable course for you.
What type of vessel is an RYA Powerboat Level 1 course delivered on?
The course can be conducted in a planning or displacement vessel and at either a coastal or inland venue.
How long does an RYA Powerboat Level 1 course take?
The RYA Powerboat Level 1 course should take place over just 1 day.
Is there a set syllabus?
Yes, the syllabus includes launch and recovery, preparation of boat and crew, boat handling, picking up and securing to a mooring buoy, leaving and coming alongside, and man overboard theory.
What is the format of the RYA Powerboat Level 1 course?
The RYA Powerboat Level 1 course takes place afloat.
The instructor will guide you through the week, presenting learning objectives and allowing you to execute and practice these while presenting you with feedback as you progress.
What is the cost of the course?
As ever, many schools differ in price. We would recommend that you take a look around at the various options and find what suits your needs the best. Cheapest is not always better.
This can range from knowing if you will have to pay for food, fuel and extra berthing charges to how many other students you will be sharing your course with.
Where should I do my RYA Powerboat Level 1 course?
There are many thoughts on where is best, but to be truthful, it is what works best for you.
One thought is to do it in an area that you plan to powerboat in the future but do not know that well. That way, any specific learnings you take on your RYA Powerboat Level 1 course will be incredibly valuable to your future powerboating.
Another is to consider those factors above, such as fuel, food and students. Fewer students are not always better; 3 would be a great number.
What is the pass mark for the course?
There is no specific pass mark as such. The aim of the instructor is to bring you up to a level where you can drive the vessel under supervision.
The instructor for your course will guide and personalise any learning to improve your knowledge and skills as much as possible.
What comes after RYA Powerboat Level 1 course?
After your RYA Powerboat Level 1 course, we suggest going on to do your RYA Powerboat Level 2. In order to supplement this, the RYA Essential Navigation and Seamanship Theory course would be a great addition.
