Meet the powerboat training team
Here at Powerboat Training, we have a commendable wealth of experience and passion, and as a team, we are committed to sharing our love of boating and promoting best practices on and off the water. We pride ourselves on our professionalism whilst delivering the training in a considerate, friendly manner, making people feel comfortable while advancing their knowledge, skills and confidence.
Lead Instructor
Captain J. Andrew Flanagan leads the Powerboat Training team. A former Search and rescue commander, Andrew has dedicated his life to equipping people to handle watercraft safely.
Andrew is a qualified RYA Trainer, placing him at the top of his field.
Since his early introduction to Maritime Rescue, as a young Lifeguard on the beaches of the West Coast of Ireland, he has been passionate about and has dedicated his entire career to minimising maritime-related harm.
Andrew’s career has seen him navigate the roles of Royal National Lifeboat Institution (RNLI) Trainer, teaching thousands of Search and Rescue crews, and SAR commander for the offshore oil and Gas industry before emigrating.
Since moving to New Zealand, Andrew has established Powerboat Training NZ to continue his passion for reducing boating-related harm. He brings his education to millions of viewers via our social media channels.
Andrew prides himself on his ability to pass on his extensive knowledge in an approachable manner. We regularly receive feedback from his students saying that they loved their time with him and appreciated his ability to train on serious topics in a fun, engaging, and light-hearted way. Even the old salty sea dogs always say they have learnt something new, which is very gratifying.
OUR TEAM
Jason
Jason has been boating for over 40 years and has had many great experiences along the way, including ocean racing (Sydney to Hobart), expedition trips to Antarctica as well as delivering many vessels and Superyachts worldwide.
Prior to joining Our Powerboat Training Team as our more senior instructor Jason was a Maritime Lecturer and Head of Training for NZ Coastguard Boating Education.
In his spare time, Jason enjoys snow skiing, diving and time with his family.
Jakob
Jakob is a passionate and highly experienced boating instructor. He has been with the New Zealand Defence Force for over 20 years and currently is the Senior Boating Instructor for the Royal New Zealand Navy.
Being a key member of our team, Jakob is adept at personalising training for all skill levels. Along with many boating qualifications, Jakob is an RYA instructor and Coastguard Boating Education tutor.
When not on the water, you will find Jakob spending time with his young family, camping and enjoying the outdoors.
Scott
Scott is from Picton, so spent his childhood growing up around boats in the Malborough Sounds. The newest member of the team, Scott’s professional but approachable style, has proved a great asset.
Scott has served in the Royal New Zealand Navy for 12 years, serving on 6 ships and is now their Small Craft boating instructor.
His other passions outside of Powerboating include playing Rugby, watching sports, and spending time with his family.
Shane
Shane is the longest-serving member of our team. With 47 years of service and counting, in the RNZN and also tutoring both theory and practical courses for the Coastguard Shane's lovely wife Janet is a very understanding woman.
Other interesting projects include training Course Marshalls for the 2020 America's Cup and circumnavigating NZ a number of times , as well as being the Senior sailing instructor for RNZN Sail Training Craft.
Shane likes visiting new unexplored places but in reality, it’s hard to keep him off the water.
Where you’ll find us on training day:
Our training courses that are hosted on our boat, depart from Z Pier, Westhaven Marina.
Happy Clients
“Wow, It was such an awesome educational experience for me and a brilliant introduction to Powerboating.
Did I learn? Absolutely.
Was it fun? Hell yeah, I’d do it again.
Was it value for money, how is one to quantify the learning, fun, practicality and instruction that was second to none.
I would again really like to thank Andy for the simplicity, encouragement and insightful way that he shared taught and allowed us to make cock-ups. I have no reservations in recommending this course, I intend on stepping to the next level of Powerboating.”
WHICH COURSE IS RIGHT FOR ME?
What type of boat are you interested in training on?
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