Boat noob

[pbp]

Hi all, its been years since I last did any boating of anykind (30+ years ago). Recently the sea has been calling me and Im now fixated on getting back into it. So im looking for advice on how to go about it all. I understand I will need to get a license to actually have a boat that would be suitable for coastal use. What would be the courses/classes I would need to attend to be able to achieve this? Any pointers or help I would be very grateful of. Thanks in advance.

PbP

[Ianfs]

Hello PBP

The calling of the sea is strong in this one.. We certainly know the feeling.

First of all, you are lucky in the UK that you don't need a licence to drive your pleasure boat, although as you have eluded to already, I would strongly advise having some sort of training as well. If you log onto the RYA website it'll give you a list of courses and trainers for your area. Undoubtedly though, if you are going to sea, you'll need to take a VHF licence for a VHF radio, it's always best practice to have at least a handheld of fixed VHF on board.

Choosing your course, in my opinion, will depend upon which type of boat you're are intending to buy. For example if its a small rib then Powerboat 1 or 2 would be a good place to start, on the other hand if its coastal cruising you are after then maybe consider Day Skipper for either Power or Sail.

[ian h]

I would agree

definitely VHF and PB Level 2

VHF is 1 day course
PB Level 2 is 2 days