New inland waterways crew course launched by the RYA

by RYA on 26 Mar 2013 At the RYA Inland Waterways Instructors conference, which took place at the beginning of March, the RYA officially launched its latest training course, the new Inland Waterways Crew Course.

The new course is an entry level course ideal for introducing people wishing to learn more about being crew on board an inland waterways vessel, as well as picking up some training on how they can assist at the helm.

During the one day course participants will cover all the basics of being a useful crew member, including personal safety; communication on board; throwing a mooring line; some basic boat handling; helping in locking operations; how to be a good look out; what to do in an emergency and looking after the environment.

'This course shifts the emphasis away from just the skipper or helm knowing about the boat and safety, recognising that the crew can get more enjoyment from their time afloat if they are well informed and can anticipate when the helm is likely to need their help', explains Rachel Andrews, RYA Chief Instructor Motor Cruising and Power.

A number of RYA Inland Training Centres have already signed up to run the course, with more planning to do so over the coming months, and the feedback received so far has been very positive.

'Instructors and centres seem really enthusiastic about there being a new course aimed at youngsters or those less than confident on board and can see that this aspect has been missing and that introducing this new course will provide the opportunity to promote family learning,' Rachel explained.

To find out more about the new Inland Waterways Crew Course visit www.rya.org.uk/coursestraining/courses/inland/Pages/IWCrewCourse.aspx