Inland Waterways Helmsman's Course

Aim of the Helmsman's Course
To teach and instruct both newcomers and the more experienced boater the principles of better and safer boating. On successful completion students will receive the RYA's Inland Waterways Helmsman's Certificate.

Canal, river, or both? The location is unequalled for course content.
The training course will be on the Staffordshire and Worcestershire Canal (Staffs and Worcs) and then could go onto the River Severn. The typical canal course will pass up to 10 locks, narrow and broad, including two staircases, The canal and river course will pass up to 12 locks including two big river locks. If you require a tailored course to suit your needs on the canal or river this can be arranged. In addition we can offer the course on your boat at your location.

Crewing Day
A Crewing Day is a taster-day, with less tuition, no boat handling, and will be suitable for a crew member.

Duration
Courses are held every week throughout the year. The course is normally one day; two day courses are available and give more handling experience. Start at 09.00, finish approximately 18:00.

Helmsman's Course Notes
The RYA's Inland Waterways Handbook is included in the cost of the Helmsman's Course. It will be sent to you when you book for pre-course reading.

Boats Used
Instruction is on a luxury, 58 feet, steel narrowboat. Instruction on your boat at your location is available.

How to Register for a Course. Telephone or email us to discuss dates.
If a group of two or three want a course we will simply agree a date. If one person wants a course then we fit them in with others. The maximum number of students is three.

Cost
Helmsman's Course at £135 each per day, maximum 3 persons per course.
An exclusive Helmsmans Course for 2 persons only, at £335 per day.
Crewing Day at £125 per person.
See the Registration page for more details.
Own boat tuition fees away from our base as agreed.

Syllabus

Deck Work
Common terms.
Handling lines and fenders.
Throwing a heaving line and coiled rope.
Knots - clove hitch, round turn and two half hitches, bowline, boatman's hitch.
Securing to bollards, rings, cleats and mooring stakes.

Helmsmanship and boat handling
Loading and weight distribution.
Steering on a canal or river.
Control of speed.
Interaction, canal effect, bank and bottom effect, prop effect.
Turning and reversing
Berthing alongside.
Recovery of person overboard.

Personal Safety
Identification of risks.
Use of life jackets and buoyancy aids.
Avoidance of personal injury.
Special risks to children.

Boat Safety
Fire hazards,
Use of fire extinguishers.
Watertight integrity.
Refloating after grounding.
Loss of steering.
Fouled propeller.


Engines
Engine care. Checks to be carried out before starting and while running. Routine periodic checks.

Locks
General understanding of maintenance of levels.
Operation of locks.
Tending lines in locks.
Safety in locks.

Bridges and Tunnels
General understanding of techniques for bridges and tunnels.

River Techniques
Special attention paid to the effect of the current.
Big river locks controlled by lock keepers.

Collision Avoidance
Steering techniques.
Rules for Preventing Collisions at Sea.
Local regulations, including traffic signals, signs and priorities.

Care of Environment
Avoiding damage to boats, banks, flora and fauna.
Pollution avoidance. Consideration for other water users.