Dover Sea School

The RYA Level 1 Start Powerboating course introduces beginners to the basics of powerboat handling. Participants learn low-speed maneuvers, safety checks, and launching and recovering powerboats. Delivered in a practical, hands-on format, this one-day course builds foundational skills and confidence, preparing participants for the Level 2 Powerboat Handling course.

The RYA Essential Navigation and Seamanship course is a shore-based program that introduces basic navigation and safety skills. Topics include reading charts, understanding tides, and using navigation tools. Participants also learn how to interpret weather forecasts and plan passages. This course is ideal for sailors, motorboaters, and anyone new to the water, providing a strong foundation for safe and confident boating.

The RYA Level 2 Powerboat Handling course is a comprehensive two-day program that teaches participants the skills needed to operate powerboats confidently and safely. This course covers high-speed maneuvers, docking, navigation, and emergency procedures. Participants practice practical skills such as anchoring, recovering a man overboard, and handling various water conditions. Successful completion allows participants to apply for an International Certificate of Competence (ICC), making it a vital qualification for both recreational and professional powerboat operators.

The RYA Day Skipper Theory course provides aspiring skippers with the knowledge to navigate safely in coastal waters. This comprehensive program covers chart work, tidal calculations, meteorology, and collision regulations. Delivered over approximately 40 hours, the course prepares participants for practical Day Skipper qualifications and builds confidence in passage planning and navigation.

The RYA Powerboat Intermediate course bridges the gap between Level 2 and advanced powerboating. Participants learn navigation, passage planning, and handling powerboats in moderate conditions. The course includes practical exercises on anchoring, docking, and responding to emergencies. This program is ideal for those seeking to improve their skills and prepare for more challenging boating environments or advanced qualifications.

The RYA Coastal Skipper/Yachtmaster Offshore Theory course is an advanced shore-based program for experienced sailors. Topics include complex navigation, advanced meteorology, and passage planning in tidal waters. Participants also learn about collision regulations and safety protocols for offshore passages. This course is essential for those preparing for the Coastal Skipper or Yachtmaster Offshore practical exams.

The RYA Powerboat Advanced course is designed for experienced powerboaters operating in challenging conditions, including night navigation. Participants learn advanced passage planning, navigation, and high-speed handling in adverse weather. The course emphasizes safety, decision-making, and the use of radar and electronic aids. By the end, participants will have the confidence to operate powerboats independently in demanding environments.

The RYA First Aid course is a one-day program tailored to the unique challenges of the marine environment. Participants learn essential first aid techniques, including CPR, treating hypothermia, and managing injuries at sea. The course also covers using marine-specific safety equipment and responding to emergencies like drowning or cold water shock. It’s a vital qualification for skippers, crew members, and water sports enthusiasts, ensuring preparedness for medical incidents on the water.