Alternative A - Powerboats

1.      Gain the RYA Level 1 Powerboat Award.

  Alternative B - Narrowboats

1.      Have a general knowledge of the canal system, in particular:

·         Suitable places to moor and wind

·         Locks, bridges and local hazards

·         The location of water points, sanitary stations

·         The location of shops and telephones.

2.      Know the safety precautions necessary in narrowboats for:

·         Fire-fighting appliances

·         'Man overboard' drill

·         Locks

·         Tunnels.

3.      Have a knowledge of the basic principles of a marine engine, and by demonstration afloat show:

·         That they can start and stop the engine, operate the gears and understand the effect of transverse thrust with a single screw.

·         That they can recognise fouling of the screw due to weed or rubbish, and know how to clear it with special emphasis on immobilising the engine.

·         That they know how to use the stern gland screw.

4.      Take charge of the boat under qualified supervision and complete the following manoeuvres:

a.                  Prepare the boat for service and, with the help of a crew, cast off and leave their moorings.

b.                  Show their ability to control the boat by:

·         Steering past moored boats.

·         Steering past a boat travelling in the opposite direction.

·         Steering through a bridge hold.

·         Bringing the boat alongside a bank and mooring.

·         Turning the boat in a winding hole and manoeuvring in confined water, such as a marina.

·         Taking the boat through a lock with the help of a crew.