Aim:
To teach powerboating up to the standard required to complete a short coastal passage by day. The ratio of students to instructors should not exceed 6:1 (using two boats).
Assumed knowledge:
Candidates should be competent to the standard of National Powerboat Certificate Level 2 with coastal endorsement.
The course will be conducted on a planing boat.
It is strongly recommended that candidates hold a first aid certificate and a VHF operator’s certificate.
Duration: 2 days
Minimum age: 16
Section A Theory
Planning a day cruise Knowledge of:
- Navigation
- True and magnetic bearings
- Bearing and distance
- Chart symbols
- Tidal diamonds and tidal streams
- Use of pilot books
- Position lines
- Use of marina locks (can be covered practically if appropriate)
Understands:
- Latitude and Longitude
- The principles of GPS
- Sources of forecast information and the interpretation of forecasts
Can:
- Use a plotting instrument and plot a course to steer (CTS)
- Work out tidal heights for standard ports using a tidal curve
- Interpret Lateral and Cardinal buoyage
- Implement IRPCS, in particular rules 5, 7, 8, 9, 13-17, 23
- Use GPS waypoint navigation and determine XTE, SOG, COG, BTW, DTW
- Use a laminated chart afloat
- Use pilotage to enter an unfamiliar port by day
- Explain how to make a VHF emergency call
- XTE – cross track error, SOG – speed over ground, COG – course over ground, BTW – bearing to waypoint, DTW – distance to waypoint
Section B Practical
The aim of the practical session is to put into practice the theory detailed above and to complete a passage, which shall include:
Boat Preparation
Understands:
- The importance of protective clothing and safety equipment
- The minimum level of equipment for the boat
- Considerations of equipment required for longer passages
- Correct stowage of equipment
Boat handling
Knowledge of:
- Effect of waves
- Rougher conditions
- Awareness of other water users
- Mooring stern-to between posts or Med style
Can:
- Demonstrate awareness of wind and tide
- Moor alongside, in a marina berth (where available)
- Demonstrate the use of an appropriate length kill cord at all times
Pilotage
Can:
- Demonstrate a practical application of techniques for pilotage in local waters
Passage making
Understands:
- The need for pre-planning, including advice in the event of having to return at night
Can:
- Apply the lessons learnt in the theory section and successfully complete a practical passage
- Fix position by traditional and electronic means
Man overboard
Understands:
- Techniques for picking up a man overboard in differing conditions
Can:
Pick up a man overboard