All trainers undertaking private training on behalf of the National Maritime College are required to hold a current Coxswain, Master or Yacht Master qualification. Only our most Senior Trainers with commercial experience conduct training for clients with large cruisers and sailing vessels.

Definitely. Safety is a large part of what we are about. Feeling safe and knowledgeable makes boating a million times more enjoyable for you, your family and friends. Our courses include an emphasis on instilling confidence and learning practical boat handling and seamanship skills - docking, anchoring, navigation, engine maintenance, on board systems, overboard recovery, provisioning, crew briefing and most importantly how to be a good Skipper. What happens when the engine breaks down, or there's an emergency on board? It's the SKIPPERS job to plan for every eventuality, however unpleasant.

No one is born knowing about boats. Boating is learned over time and in varying conditions. You don't think twice about taking golf or tennis lessons from pros. The difference between these activities and boating is the element of personal safety involved. Professional training gives people the skills and information they would not be able to acquire from hands-on experience alone. People with formal training have a deeper depth of knowledge and confidence,allowing them to make better informed decisions for keeping passengers, crew and their vessel safe As you increase your proficiency, your confidence will increase. We'll help you to overcome your boating anxieties (don't worry, you are not alone in having them). Learning the 'why' of what you are doing as well as the 'how to' gives a more complete understanding of boating.