Courses and training – What do I need?!
A lot of our customers here at RIBs For Sale are new to boating and have picked up various bits of information about the qualifications and courses you need to go boating. This is our short, one page guide to boating licences for the leisure user to get on the water.
Whilst there is no compulsory licence to take a RIB or Speed boat out in British Waters, we always recommend that you at least take the RYA Powerboat Level 2 course. The course duration is 2 days and 90% of it is based on the water. The syllabus covers everything from launching to lunching and it has numerous benefits with insurance companies, local authorities and the upkeep of your boat!
If you’re thinking about buying a boat the RYA Powerboat Level 2 is a great place to start, you can spend two days on the water and get a real feel for things before investing £10,000’s – your instructor is likely have a wealth of knowledge about boats and may help advise you on brands and designs to look out for!
What is an ICC and do I need one?
What is it?
The ICC (International Certificate of Competence) is an official document which shows that you have a certain level of competence, when it comes to using a boat.
Do I need one?
This certificate is required in many European countries in order to use your boat (even for pleasure). So if you are taking your boat down to the Mediterranean this summer, or are planning to hire a boat there you’ll need an ICC. Whilst the ICC is recognised in the UK and has various benefits with marinas and insurance companies, it is not compulsory.
How do I get one?
There are two ways to get your ICC with RIBs For Sale- If you are new to boating the easiest way is to book onto an RYA Powerboat Level 2 (or book a private session with one of our instructors), at the end of the course we will complete your application form and the RYA will supply you with the certificate. Alternatively you can undergo a direct assessment, where you’ll go afloat with an instructor, perform the various practical elements and if they are satisfactory we can send off the application.
What does it cost?
The ICC is free to all RYA members or £43 (at the time of writing) to non members.
Most new boats come fitted with a VHF Marine Radio, as they are one of the most important pieces of safety equipment on-board. To use and register your VHF Radio you will need a licence, which can be obtained once you have completed a One day RYA course. The course covers different systems, the uses of the radios and what to do in an emergency.
Harbour Duties
Harbour duties vary depending on where you’re keeping the boat; in Portsmouth Harbour, where we are based, there are no duties. Whereas nearby harbours will charge a small fee for visiting or mooring there, to find out if your local harbours impose duties check a Reeds Almanac or speak to the Harbour Master.’
For further information on courses Click here or for full Course dates full Course dates Click here.
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