Sail-World.com : Improve your boating and seamanship skills this winter

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Sail-World.com : Improve your boating and seamanship skills this winter

Improve your boating and seamanship skills this winter

'Don’t be caught unawares - take the opportunity to improve your boating skills this winter with Coastguard Education' .

With the winter season fast approaching many recreational boaties and fishermen are attending courses through Coastguard Boating Education Service (CBES). Recent fatalities at sea have prompted many to upskill and improve their emergency procedures and safety resources, placing Day Skipper, Boatmaster and Marine VHF Radio courses in hot demand. Enquiries received have revealed a common desire for confidence on the water whether they are fishing mates who enjoy the odd day trip or experienced crews wanting to upskill.

As an introductory course to boating, the Day Skipper qualification continues to attract a diverse range of candidates with varying backgrounds. On an individual basis men and women regardless of their duty on board, are learning the basics to ensure their experience on the water is safe and enjoyable. As a group initiative different segments of the boating community are introducing their members to the Day Skipper programme. To find out more on the Day Skipper course content click here

The next step up from Day Skipper, theBoatmaster has proved particularly popular among those long-time boaties who have the basics but want a higher degree of expertise on which to operate. Course numbers are on the rise, and a significant proportion of boaties are lifting their abilities with compass & chartwork, boat handling & ropework, and tides & weather. To find out more on the Boatmaster course content click here

A number of keen individuals have enrolled in the more advanced Coastal Skipper and Ocean Yachtmaster recreational courses. The Coastal Skipper course has been particularly popular among those boaties venturing beyond sheltered waters, as a comprehensive programme covering all aspects of coastal navigation and seamanship. To find out more on the Coastal Skipper course content http://www.cbes.org.nz/courses/4/coastal-skipper

The Ocean Yachtmaster targets both skippers and crew intending to race offshore or cruise overseas, and still remains the highest qualification offered in New Zealand for non-commercial boating, carrying international repute. To find out more on the Ocean Yacht Master course content click here

A new opportunity has arisen for those seeking a career as Crew on Superyachts. IYT (International Yachtmaster Training) courses are now available in New Zealand in association with Coastguard Boating Education Service, through a limited number of providers. This is appealing to those aspiring to join the ranks of a professional yacht crew as well as recreational yachties looking for an internationally recognised qualification.

The shorter courses on offer have also attracted growing attention throughout the year. As Coastguard Boating Education Service continues to emphasise the legal requirement for VHF radio users to be qualified, numbers remain steady on the Marine VHF Operators course. Participation has also prompted many boaties to call in to obtain a call sign or update their existing call sign details. To find out more on the Marine Radio Operations course content click here or for the Restricted Operators Certificate click here

Specific courses on radar, GPS, boat handling, outboard/inboard engine maintenance, and first aid have proved invaluable for some, with various success stories arising from the woodwork.

With a strong emphasis on providing quality courses in a range of venues throughout the country, and an option to study some courses via correspondence, Coastguard Boating Education Service awaits enquiries from all fellow boaties and fishermen, fresh or smoked! Whether it's finding the right course for you or obtaining/updating a call sign, we're here to make your boating experience safe and enjoyable.

To review all courses offered by Coastguard education click here

by Coastguard Education

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10:58 AM Sat 30 May 2009 GMT

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