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Power / Developing

Small Boat Skipper (Power)

Learn to handle a powerboat safely and understand the seamanship behind every manoeuvre. You build practical skills with an instructor alongside you.

Instructor and learner bringing a rigid inflatable boat alongside a pontoon

Course overview

Small Boat Skipper focuses on the handling and seamanship skills a competent powerboat driver needs. You practise preparing the boat, leaving and coming alongside, turning in confined spaces and controlling the boat at different speeds. Alongside the practical work, you learn the basics of buoyage, the collision regulations, weather awareness and how to plan a short trip. Your instructor gives regular feedback so you understand what you are doing well and what to practise next. The course gives you a sound base for independent boating and prepares you for further training.

Who it is for

People who want to take charge of a small powerboat and would like structured training in handling and seamanship.

What you will learn

  • Preparing the boat and crew before departure
  • Leaving and coming alongside
  • Close-quarters manoeuvring
  • Buoyage and the collision regulations
  • Planning a short trip

How training works

Practical training on the water with an instructor. Contact IMSO for current venues, dates and group sizes.

Before you enrol

Contact IMSO for current entry requirements before you book.

Assessment and certificate

Ask IMSO how progress is assessed on this course and which certificate is currently issued.

Questions

Common questions about this course

Is Small Boat Skipper right for me?

Tell us about your experience and what you want to achieve. We will explain the current entry requirements and suggest the right starting point.

When does the next course run?

Dates are confirmed on request. Send an enquiry and we will reply with current dates, venues and fees.

Enquire

Ask about Small Boat Skipper

Send a short message and we will reply with current dates, entry requirements and the next step.

All fields are required unless marked optional.

For example, a region, a month or weekends only.

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