A new two-day Navigation and Safety Course from the RYA (Royal Yachting Association), designed to provide an introduction to general navigation and boating safety, will be available from RYA recognised training centres across the UK and abroad from September 2007.
Intended for power boaters, motor cruisers, sail cruisers or sail racers alike, the new course aims to provide the ideal step up for those who don't necessarily want to be skipper, but who do want to get more involved in the running of the boat than just pulling on ropes and tying fenders.
Participants will learn how to plan a passage, read charts and plot positions, and how to use a GPS. They will also learn about basic safety onboard, including engine checks, visual navigation, recognising buoyage and anchoring techniques. They will be continually assessed throughout the two days, rather than having an exam at the end of the course - all making for an enjoyable two days, says the RYA.
Piloted earlier this year the course received favourable reviews from participants. “The course had a very good 'hands on' feel and got the whole class interacting. It didn't go into too much detail on any one thing so as not to bog you down,” said one.
The course is also said to be a great refresher for those who completed a navigation course many years ago but who may have become “a bit rusty.”
James Stevens, RYA Training manager said: “Taking a course such as this only adds to the enjoyment of being out on the water. It will give people the confidence to get the most out of their boating whilst making them aware of the risks and how to be prepared for them.
“The two-day format works extremely well and we are seeing an increased demand for courses of this length. All participants get a course pack including chart, question paper, course handbook, chart plotter CD and newly designed plotter.”
To find out more about the two day Navigation and Safety Course and where you can do it, visit www.rya.org.uk/courses
