City Of Glasgow College

Both sailing and motor boats increasingly have radar onboard. The International Regulations for the Prevention of Collisions at Sea state that if you have a radar, you must know how to use it. Radar is probably the most versatile of all electronic navigation aids, but the best results are only obtained when you know how to use all of the functions correctly.

If you have a VHF radio onboard your boat, or even carry a handheld VHF whilst kayaking or paddle-boarding, you need to hold an operator’s licence. A radio is an important piece of safety equipment on board and it is vital to understand the correct procedures. The Short Range Certificate is the minimum qualification required by law to control the operation of VHF and VHF Digital Selective Calling (DSC) equipment on any British flagged vessel voluntarily fitted with a radio either fixed or hand held.

The one-day, RYA Diesel Engine course is perfect for beginners, taking you through ways to prevent and solve diesel engine failure. Most engine problems can be solved by taking simple precautions, and you don’t need a detailed mechanical knowledge. Find out how your engine works, how to keep it healthy by doing basic checks and maintenance procedures, and how to get it started again in the event of a breakdown.

Accidents happen when you least expect them. Thankfully serious incidents onboard are rare but getting to grips with basic first aid will ensure that everyone’s in good hands. Administering first aid at sea or even just afloat is very different to doing so on land.