In September the RYA will be launching a new two-day course called Basic Navigation and Safety.
The course is aimed at anyone new to sailing, motor boating, sea angling and diving as well as experienced dinghy and keelboat sailors and inshore racers.
The RYA says: “Mindful of the fact that people are increasingly short of time for leisure pursuits we have taken a new approach, aiming to give students an awareness and knowledge of basic navigation techniques and safety in just 16 hours.”
Course topics include: charts and publications, safety, engine checks, buoyage, tidal awareness, visual and electronic navigation, pilotage, rules of the road, anchoring, weather forecasts and passage planning.
This course is said to be the perfect stepping stone to the more in-depth Day Skipper shore-based course, or to courses on the water such as the Start Yachting or Day Skipper courses.
Students on a pilot course run earlier this year were enthusiastic about the new course.
“An excellent introduction that all new boat users should be encouraged to complete. It gives you confidence to get the most out of your boat, whilst being aware of the risks," said one.
Other reactions included:
- "Recommended for newcomers, but also very useful for those who want to do more than pull ropes and tie on fenders."
- "I would definitely recommend it to new boat owners or anyone keen to get into boating."V
- "I now feel more confident in my abilities and can't wait to get on the water and put the theory into practice."
- "Useful to all, regardless of experience. Good background knowledge to enhance your enjoyment of being afloat."
To find training centres which are running the course, visit www.rya.org.uk
