RYA Inland Waterways Helmsman's Course

The RYA Helmsman’s Course provides a solid introduction to motor cruising. It is ideal for new skippers and their crews, ensuring everyone can be fully involved in the safe running of your boat. The course is designed to provide as much fun and enjoyment as possible in a safe and reassuring environment.

During the two days you will be introduced to handling a motor cruiser in a variety of basic mooring situations and undertake short passages visiting some of the beautiful harbours and anchorages in the Solent area. You will learn about safety equipment and emergency procedures, and basic engine and equipment checks required prior to departure will also be covered. You will be taught how to secure mooring lines and fenders, learn to tie essential knots and how to live aboard a motor cruiser.

If you would like to improve your skippering skills, we recommend you complete an RYA Day Skipper Theory course (either online or in a classroom) to learn navigation and then go on to complete the RYA Day Skipper practical motor cruising course.

Course Structure

•Boat preparation

•High speed manoeuvres

•Close quarters boat handling

•Engines and drives

•Engine operation and maintenance

•Safety and seamanship

•Rules of the road

•Securing to a buoy

•Berthing alongside

•Man overboard recovery