powerboat course portishead

RYA Powerboat Level 2

Course dates.

25th/26th January 2018

What is the RYA Powerboat Level 2 course?

The RYA Powerboat level 2 course is aimed as an introduction to power boating with the course covering a much wider range of topics than the level 1 course.  There are no pre-requisites for the course but it aims to provide a good, broad base of experience for anyone who wants to take a powerboat out on their own.

As with all of our courses the days will be mainly practical and hands on to give you the best experience, skills and confidence in the handling of powerboats.

In addition the RYA Powerboat level 2 course completion certificate can also be commercially endorsed for anyone working on boats who requires a basic commercial boating qualification.

People who have booked on this course have also booked:

RYA VHF Radio course

This course contains some exercises that are physically demanding. Any candidate unsure of their fitness for such activities should consult their doctor.

 Course content

• Launching and recovery
• Boat handling
• Securing to a buoy
• Leaving and coming alongside
• Man overboard

Prerequisites:  A minimum age of 12. Candidates under the age of 16 will be issued with an endorsed certificate stating that they must be accompanied by an adult.

Duration:  2 days

Cost:  £270 per person. This includes all manuals, certification. Please note all price are exclusive of VAT.

Location: The training locations vary depending on tide and weather.

Our meeting point is: Baltic Wharf, Cumberland Rd, Bristol, Avon BS1 6XG

Certification: RYA Powerboat Level 2 National Certificate

Boat Masters License    RYA Powerboat Level 1    RYA Powerboat Level 2    RYA VHF Radio Course (DSC)   

bristolpowerboatschool.co.uk run by Beyond Limits Training are a leading training centre specialising in RYA Powerboat and VHF Courses . Also STCW-95 & First Aid At Work Courses .

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Powerboat education, courses & training in the South West of England

Stuart Scorgie is a tutor, trainer and aquatic specialist with South West Maritime Academy sharing his wealth of experience and knowledge with those wishing to expand their powerboating skills and qualifications.

Read Stuart's Blog

Do I need to take a Powerboat course?

In reality , everyone on the sea comes under the Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS) regulations. On 29 July 2020 the MCA published a marine guidance note to provide clarification and guidance on the merchant shipping (safety of navigation) regulations which implement chapter V of the International Convention for the safety of life at sea 1974 (SOLAS) in its most recently amended form into UK law.  In a nutshell - you may be prosecuted if you fail to adhere to them. Follow this link for the latest government leaflet on chapter V for recreational boaters:  SOLAS regulations for pleasure boat users

A recent change to UK law has caused a change in focus from what was initially intended for PWC users to move more towards all watercraft users. 

The Merchant Shipping (Watercraft) Order 2023 places a duty onwatercraft owners in UK waters to ensure that it is operated in a safe manner. If the owner fails to do this, they may commit an offence, punishable by imprisonment for a term up to two years, a fine, or both.

• the act or omission was deliberate or amounted to a breach or neglect of duty.
• the person who committed the act or made the omission was under the influence of drink or a drug at the time of the act or omission.

then the person is guilty of an offence under section 58 (conduct endangering ships, structures, or individuals) of the Merchant Shipping Act 1995, as applied by the 2023 Order. 

With this in mind, our advice is to take a course.

If you are unable to find a date that suits you drop me an Email with your request.

Powerboat Courses Calendar

Find a powerboat course.

South West Maritime Academy is a leading provider of RYA powerboat courses for all levels of experience and ability, from complete novices to competent professionals and those looking to enhance their career prospects or update required industry specific qualifications. We operate the Powerboat School from Portishead Marina with our well equipped MCA coded 7.8m Ribcraft RIB.

As well as a great training area, there are plenty of cafes, comfort stop facilities and free parking.

PowerBoat Level 1 Course

Challenge Scale:

Minimum age:  8 Years. Under 16's Issued With Endorsed Certificate.

The RYA PowerBoat Level 1 Course allows the holder to experience and take an active part in powerboating, whilst being safe on-board and helping to steer and navigate at sea or on inland waters.  This is an informative and enjoyable 1-day powerboat course, with a recognised RYA Certificate.

In A Nutshell:  This course is for you if you want a quick and fun introduction to PowerBoating - great for kids.  

• or give us a call -  01454 260 130

PowerBoat Level 2 Course

Minimum age:  12 Years. Under 16's Issued With Endorsed Certificate

The most popular powerboat course - no prior experience or Level 1 is needed. This 2 day RYA Course is a well recognised qualification and can be used to hire powerboats up to 10 metres, is accepted by insurance companies for boat owners and can be Commercially Endorsed to legally take up to 12 passengers to sea. There is no exam and is designed as an enjoyable 2 days.

In A Nutshell:  This course is for you if you want to own or hire a powerboat and need the skills to be safe - or if you need to work commercially - and legally - within 3 miles of shore during daylight hours. 

National PowerBoat L2 Direct Assessment

For power boaters with the equivalent of at least one full seasons powerboat handling experience, this Direct Assessment allows the holder to be awarded the full RYA PowerBoat Level 2 (Coastal/Tidal/Planing) National PowerBoat Certificate Photo-ID certificate, without attending the normal 2 day continual-assessment course route. It normally takes between 3-8 hours, with 1-3 persons.

In A Nutshell:  This assessment is for experienced PowerBoaters needing the RYA Level 2, but who don't want or need the full 2 day course.

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Intermediate PowerBoat Day Cruising

Minimum age:  16 Years. 

This 2 day course covers the practical use of pilotage and passage-planning by day on coastal waters using both traditional and electronic techniques. More advanced boat handling will also be covered. Candidates will be competent to National PowerBoat Level 2 (Coastal/Tidal) and it is strongly recommended that candidates hold a valid First Aid Certificate and VHF Radio Licence.

In A Nutshell:  This course is for you if you want to expand your skippering skills and take on more challenging PowerBoating, or travel further afield during the day. 

Tender Operator

Minimum age:  16 Years.

This course is for those carrying passengers to and from a mothership by day and night, and includes working with crew, passengers and short-handed operations. Designed in conjunction with the Professional Yachting Association, and like the Level 2, this is a Photo-I.D. licence-card certificate accepted internationally.

In A Nutshell:  This course is for you if you are in the Maritime industry and wish to take on a more challenging role during day, night and possibly adverse weather.

email your request

Advanced PowerBoat

Minimum age:  17 Years.

A 2 day RYA Course For leisure or professional PowerBoaters wanting to undertake more adventurous trips - including navigation by day and night, taking into account weather and crew factors and other skippering techniques. More challenging passages and weather conditions should be experienced. Ability to Intermediate PowerBoat Level and Day Skipper Shorebased Navigation is strongly advised.

In A Nutshell:  This course is for you if you want to expand your skippering skills and take on more challenging sailing or travel further afield during day, night and during adverse weather.

Own Boat RYA PB L2 Course

Minimum age:  12 Years.

This two-day course covers basic boat handling, helmsmanship, safety and basic engine maintenance. It aims to teach boat handling & safety within a defined area. It is particularly suitable as an own boat course for new owners of motor cruisers who are conscious of the difficulty and potential hazards of boat handling in the marina and at sea. It is useful for crews as well as skippers. Apart from the obvious safety benefits of extra boat handlers on board, it adds interest if everyone can contribute to the trip.

In A Nutshell:  This course is for you if you want to own or hire a Motor Cruiser or sports boat and need the skills to be safe around a marina environment and on the open water.

First Night Passage

Let's go for some practice in the dark

This special coaching event is designed to help the adventurous boater get some safety tips and practice alongside one of our highly qualified and experienced instructors.

There is no formal qualification associated with this instruction day but the knowledge you will gain will be invaluable when venturing out into the night on your own. 

In a Nutshell: You are doing this course if you want to take your pride and joy away and bring her back to her berth in the dark safely. 

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Own Boat Night Cruising Experience

Minimum age:12

This course covers the practical use of pilotage and passage planning on coastal waters using both traditional and electronic navigation. The course builds on the knowledge of the RYA level 2 PowerBoat and is suited to those who have little or no night cruising experience, or, for those that may need a little confidence building after a break. There is no requirement to sit the day skipper exam, we can help you with the background knowledge if needed. These courses are run on an "as required" basis and is ideal for those with families or friends, email us with your thoughts.

In A Nutshell: You may be asking for this courses of you are feeling a little rusty about your boat handling and marina skills or are unsure about how to do specific elements of passage planning or are nervous about taking your pride and joy away from her berth and returning in darkness 

Been a while since you managed to drive a boat?

A PowerBoat refresher course may be what you are looking for. We can accommodate you on a half or full day refresher course tailoring the course to your needs.  Call us to book a slot

•    01454 260 130

Mile builder

Challenge Scale:Up to you 

Minimum age:16

Need to get some passage miles under your belt for exams. We can help with that either here in the UK or at our Sea School in Palma. 

This course covers the practical use of pilotage and passage planning on coastal waters using both traditional and electronic navigation. The course builds on the knowledge of the RYA level 2 PowerBoat and is suited to those who need miles for further exams. You would be fully involved in all aspects of the passage plan, food, provisions and of course conducting the passage. The most important part is making it a fun and enjoyable. These courses are run on an "as required" basis and is ideal for those with families or friends, email us with your thoughts.

In A Nutshell: You may be asking for this courses of you are looking to enhance your logbook with day and night passages in preparation for your next exam. 

Diver-Specific RYA PowerBoat Level 2 (Own Boat, for 3 x People)

This course is delivered by an experienced Diving Instructor and RYA Advanced PowerBoat Instructor.

Designed as a package for a group of three, using their own club boat.

This is a specialist training course which is designed for members of local dive clubs operating powerboats - no specific prior boating knowledge or experience is required.

In A Nutshell:: This course is for club divers who want to drive the club boat. The Instructor will deliver practical training essential for skippering a dive-boat.

Want a course but would prefer somewhere warmer?

If you like the idea of one of these courses but would prefer to do it somewhere warmer, you could consider going to our Palma Sea School. We also offer Day Skipper and Yachtmaster courses along with Mile builder opportunities. Have a look at our website  for more information.

If you have any unanswered questions please  tel:01454260130  or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.  us, we will do our best to help you.

Want a course but can't see the dates you want?

If there are 2 or three of you and you are unable to find a date that fits with your needs  Email  or  tel: 01454260130 . 

We sometimes have a boat free during the week, rest assured, we will try our best to accommodate you.

Here at The South West Maritime Academy , we are industry leaders in maritime safety training courses, offering a wide range of maritime courses including the mandatory STCW Basic Safety Training - essential for all seafaring personnel.

Over recent years we've helped many newcomers to the industry, along with competent professionals enhancing their careers with the essential training they need to do their jobs effectively. We offer real hands-on training for all candidates at our our main site in Cromhall, South Gloucestershire and our PowerBoat School in Portishead, ensuring that you are not trained with just theory - actual real-life experience is in our opinion, essential.

When you train with us, you can rest assured that you are learning with the top maritime academy in the UK - with well-qualified instructors and many years of experience. Our pass rates are fantastic, in 2021, 100% of participants at the South West Maritime Academy willing to recommend our courses and facilities. Don't just take our word for it - we are accredited by several examination boards - Edexcel, Maritime & Coastguard Agency, Pearson and the RYA.

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RYA Powerboat Level 2 Course

Rya powerboat level 2.

Improve your powerboat driving and handling techniques. If you’re new to powerboating, this practical course will prepare you with the safe driving and handling skills you need to complete short day trips in your powerboat.

About the course

Covering the theory and practical skills needed to become a competent powerboat driver, the course focuses on low speed close quarters handling, man overboard recovery, driving at planning speed and collision regulations.

All food and accommodation is included.

Other courses you may also be interested in:

• RYA Powerboat Instructor course
• Powerboat and Personal Watercraft Courses

International Certificate of Competency (ICC )  Application

If you would like to add on your ICC to you booking please inform our advisors at time of booking. There is a direct fee to the RYA for this, for more information please contact us .

The RYA Powerboat Level 2 Syllabus is taught with a ratio of (3:1) students to instructor and covers the following:

• Launching and recovery
• Boat handling under way (including high speed)
• Securing to a buoy
• Leaving and coming alongside
• Man overboard
• Displacement craft
• Leaving and returning to pontoons
• Basic navigation
• Collision prevention regulations
• Boat design
• Engines and drives

Qualifications

Upon successful completion of the course, you’ll be awarded your RYA Powerboat Level 2 Certification.

Dates and pricing

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Training Venues

South west maritime academy, for our purpose built training facility –  all stcw and mca courses as well as bespoke classroom courses.

South West Maritime Academy,

Cromhall Quarry,

South Gloucestershire,

Tel: 01454 260130

SWMA RYA Training Centre:

For rya powerboat courses.

Portishead Marina,

Newfoundland Way,

Portishead,

NEED HELP Deciding a course?

Powerboat Training

Bristol Maritime leads the way in powerboat tuition, specialising in coastal , river , and flood environments . Our dedicated training centres strategically situated on waterways enable us to provide optimal experiences and training tailored to the unique needs of our students.

Operating an RYA Advanced Powerboat School in Portishead on the Bristol Channel and our headquarters and training centre in Bristol Harbour, we offer a comprehensive range of training options, including inland , tidal river , and non-tidal  river scenarios .

Our commitment is to ensure that you have access to the best equipment in stimulating locations for excellent tuition that aligns with your specific requirements. Our fleet is unparalleled on the West Coast, featuring a diverse range of boats, from small inflatable rescue vessels to work boats and 6m coded RIBs equipped with 150hp engines.

With our training locations and a highly experienced team , we can cater to individuals at any proficiency level, from beginners to advanced and instructor levels. Additionally, we provide a personalised service for teams requiring private courses. Our focus extends beyond basic certification, such as RYA Powerboat Level 2, to include supplementary training that equips individuals for tasks related to scientific work, television production, workboats, or safety boats upon arrival at their respective sites.

RYA Powerboat Courses

RYA Powerboat Level 2

Cost:  From £305

  £280 for Bristol Harbour Only

Duration:  2 Days

Course Information:  This in-depth course covers boat handling, planing speed manoeuvres, man overboard recovery, and collision regulations.

Minimum Age:  Age 12 +

Exam Type / Duration:  Continual assessment during the course

Max. Instructor / Student Ratio:  1:3

Course Materials Provided:  RYA G48 – Start Powerboating

Assumed Pre-Course Ability:  None, Beginner. May be preceded by RYA Powerboat Level 1

Ability after the course:  Able to safely drive and manoeuvre a powerboat up to 10 meters in daylight conditions

RYA Intermediate Powerboat

Cost: From £320

Course Information: It focuses on daytime navigation skills, passage planning, use of plotting instruments, GPS, and electronic navigation. 

Assumed Pre-Course Ability:  Good RYA Powerboat Level 2 Boat Handling

Knowledge to the level of RYA Dayskipper Theory

It is recommended that students also hold a First Aid Certificate and their Short Range Operators Certificate (VHF)

Ability after the course:  Able to plan and execute short coastal passages by day

RYA Advanced Powerboat

Duration: 2 Days

Course Information: This 2 day RYA Advanced Powerboat course develops skippering techniques for coastal and offshore passages by day and night .

The course includes a night passage, planned and executed by the candidates after some training .  This will take place in the Bristol Channel offering a challenging and educational training area .

Minimum Age: Age 17 +

Exam Type / Duration: Continual assessment during the course. 

Max Instructor / Student Ratio: 1:3

Course Materials Provided: N/A

Assumed Pre-Course Ability: Good RYA Intermediate Powerboat boat handling skills

Knowledge of navigation and chartwork to the level of Coastal Skipper/RYA Yachtmaster (Shorebased)

Ability after the course:  Able to plan and execute coastal trips and return to a familiar port by night

RYA POWERBOAT LEVEL 2 FOR SAFETY, SURVEY, PONTOON + SCIENTIFIC BOAT DRIVERS

River, coastal + inland boat handling, tiller steer + console driving skills , safety boat techniques for casualties, boat, equipment + site management, towing work platforms and equipment, contact us today to arrange your teams bespoke training. .

Commercial Endorsement

If you are looking to work on small commercial vessels then you must commercially endorse your RYA qualification. There are two qualifications that you can commercially endorse, RYA powerboat level 2 & RYA advanced powerboat (with exam).

RYA POWERBOAT LEVEL 2

When commercially endorsed the powerboat level 2 will allow you to work on small commercial vessels under 10 metres in length and no more than 3 miles from shore during daylight hours. 

RYA ADVANCED POWERBOAT CERTIFICATE OF COMPETENCE (EXAM)

When commercially endorsed the advanced powerboat will allow you to work on small commercial vessels under 24 metres in length and no more than 20 miles from shore both during day and night. 

Bespoke Powerboat Training

If you are looking to get some support from RYA-qualified, experienced instructors to help improve your berthing, maneuvering, and confidence when locking in/ out, then we are here to help. We offer own boat tuition from our location in Portishead Marina and from Bristol in 1/2 day, full-day, and multiple-day sessions. These sessions take place on your craft and are designed around you. 

Please see the contact form below to get in touch and start you and your teams bespoke powerboat training today. 

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Compass Sea School Ltd

The highland's premier motor cruising, powerboating and shorebased training centre, inverness marina – capital of the highlands.

Welcome to Compass Sea School

Choose from our wide range of categories below

Powerboat Courses

Motor Cruising Courses

Sail Cruising Courses – Coming Soon!

Shorebased Courses

Navigation Courses

Instructor Courses

RYA Interactive Courses

Online Navigation Theory Courses

Own Boat Tuition

Practical Development courses

Commercial Courses

Shorebased Workshops

Compass Sea School Ltd, located at Inverness Marina in the beautiful Scottish Highlands, is a family run business offering first class professional tuition in all aspects of water and shorebased RYA Powerboat and Motor Cruising courses, own-boat tuition and milebuilders/development days. In addition, as an RYA/MCA examination centre we also offer commercial training and certificate of competence examinations for those involved in the marine industry.

Why Us…With direct access to the Inverness & Moray Firth we offer some truly beautiful cruising grounds, easy road access and just 10 mins from Inverness Airport, free parking and an experienced team you will learn from the best.

Our Customers

• INSTRUCTIONAL CLINICS
• BASIC SAILING
• ADVANCED SAILING
• SPINNAKER CLINIC
• LASER SAILING
• HOBIE CAT SAILING
• KEELBOAT SAILING LEVEL 1
• KEELBOAT SAILING LEVEL 2
• KEELBOAT SAILING LEVEL 3

BASIC CRUISING CERTIFICATION COURSE

• COASTAL NAVIGATION
• SMALL BOAT SAILING PRIVATE LESSON
• WAKEBOARDING FREERIDE SESSION
• SUNRISE WAKEBOARDING
• DAWN PATROL WAKESURFING
• EARLY BIRD WATERSKIING
• WAKEBOARDING PRIVATE LESSON
• SURFING-FOUR SESSION
• INTRODUCTION TO SURFING
• PADDLE SMARTER CLINIC
• MOONLIGHT PADDLING
• STAND UP PADDLEBOARD YOGA
• POWER PADDLE CLINIC
• PADDLE GAMES
• INTRODUCTION TO KAYAKING
• SEA KAYAKING QUALIFICATION
• ADVENTURE KAYAK
• WINDSURFING LEVEL 1
• SAFE POWERBOAT HANDLING
• SEMESTER STAND UP PADDLEBOARD YOGA
• SEMESTER INTERMEDIATE SURFING
• SEMESTER WAKEBOARDING AND WAKESURFING
• SEMESTER SAILING
• SEMESTER WINDSURFING
• SEMESTER SURFING
• SEMESTER WAKEBOARDING
• SEMESTER SEA KAYAKING
• SEMESTER STAND UP PADDLING
• YOUTH BASIC SAILING
• YOUTH ADVENTURE SAILING
• YOUTH WAKESPORTS SESSION
• STEM EXPLORATIONS- THINK LIKE A SCIENTIST
• STEM EXPLORATIONS- ROV DESIGN CHALLENGE
• STEM EXPLORATIONS- OCEAN LITERACY AND CONSERVATION
• STEM EXPLORATIONS- MICROSCOPIC MYSTERIES
• STEM EXPLORATIONS-SEINING FOR SCIENCE
• Private Lessons
• Sailboat Rentals
• Stand Up Paddleboard Rentals
• Kayak Rentals
• Windsurfer Rentals
• Wakeboarding Boat Rentals
• Surfboard and Bodyboard Rentals
• Miscellaneous Equipment Rentals
• Party Packages
• Group Lessons
• Company Picnics
• Weekend Enrichment
• Spring Camp
• Summer Camp
• Birthday Party Packages
• Gift Certificates
• Hours & Directions
• Parking Information
• General Information
• Boats for Sale
• Forms & Waivers

The Basic Cruising graduate will have successfully demonstrated the ability to responsibly skipper and crew an auxiliary powered cruising sailboat during daylight hours within sight of land in moderate wind and sea conditions. The course fee includes US Sailing's Basic Cruising book, the companion book for this course.

What Will I Learn?

Topics of the course include:

• Weather forecasting
• Basic coastal navigation
• Systems checks
• Docking and mooring procedures
• Boat handling in confined waters
• Heavy weather sailing methods
• Safety and emergency procedures
• VHF marine radio operation
• Operating an outboard engine

After completing this class students are eligible to take the written exam to obtain a US Sailing Basic Cruising Certification .

Is this the right class for me?

Basic Cruising is the next step at MBAC for students who have completed Basic Keelboat Sailing Levels 1 , 2 , and 3 . It is an ideal course for those wishing to gain the skills and confidence necessary to sail a keelboat as the person in charge.

Requirements

• Prerequisite: MBAC Basic Keelboat Sailing Level 3  or equivalent experience.
• This class is open to all participants aged 14 and up.
• A general liability waiver is required to participate. Anyone under 18 must have a waiver signed by their parent or legal guardian.
• Participants must acknowledge that they are water safe (able to swim 50 meters and comfortably tread water).

How to Prepare

Wear comfortable clothes and dress in layers. The temperature can feel much cooler than expected once you are on the water, so it is a good idea to bring a jacket, even on warm days. We suggest comfortable closed-toed shoes and sunglasses and a hat are highly recommended. Lifejackets are provided.

It is unlikely that you will end up in the water while sailing during this class, but you may get a little bit wet from small splashes, handling wet lines, etc. anytime you go on a boat. 

Bring sunscreen, a refillable water bottle, and snacks or lunch (for all-day classes). MBAC has a water bottle refilling station and there are a number of restaurants nearby, but keep in mind that food and drink are not available for purchase at MBAC.

Parking can be a challenge at MBAC, especially during the summer months. Please visit our  parking page  for more information.

What's Next?

While Basic Cruising is the final class in the keelboat series at MBAC, there are many opportunities to continue sailing and learning after this course. 

We reccomend Advanced Sailing if you want to become eligible to rent sailboats from MBAC. A private lesson is a good option if you have specific skills you would like to work on with an instructor. 

sailing Discounts!

Package price includes Basic Sailing, Advanced Sailing, and Hobie Cat Sailing

$470.00 Package Fee $315.00 SDSU/UCSD Student Fee