Whether you want to set sail for the sense of adventure or simply enjoy the idea of a relaxing day aboard a boat, the open waters are waiting.

But if you’ve not got much experience of boating, you may be wondering where to start. That’s where the RYA and its courses come in – an ideal avenue for learning to enjoy the water responsibly.

At Honda Marine, we’re committed to safe boating through our support of RYA training and membership. Here’s everything you need to know.

What is an RYA course, and how do you choose the right one?

The RYA – also known as the Royal Yachting Association – offers various beginner courses for operating a boat.

Indeed, RYA courses for beginners include:

• RYA Powerboating Level 1. This 1-day course is a practical introduction to powerboating, with no experience necessary. It’s ideal for learning about boat handling, safety, and launching/recovery techniques.

• RYA Powerboating Level 2. RYA Powerboating Level 2 is ideal for those with no powerboating experience, and can help with understanding high-speed manoeuvres, as well as navigation and more complex safety techniques.

• RYA Sailing Courses. These help you learn the essentials of taking out a sailboat.

• RYA Competent Crew. If you want to become a hands-on crew member rather than just a passenger, the RYA Competent Crew courses can teach beginners a host of basic skills such as navigation, boat handling, and more.

There are over RYA 100 courses in total, for everything from sailing to windsurfing – so there are a lot of options to consider. The best thing is to research what’s available and pick something that aligns with your skill level and interests.

With RYA training centres worldwide, you’re never too far away from getting the skills you need to safely navigate your boat on the water.

Learn more about boat owner safety with our guide.

What can you expect to learn on an RYA beginner course?

On your RYA beginners’ course, you can expect to learn some of the following key skills:

• Boat handling. Built on practical skills such as basic manoeuvring to steer, aiding in recovery and docking. You’ll also learn to anchor your boat, secure to a buoy and more.

• Safety checks. By learning the correct safety checks to perform, you can make sure you know how to understand that your boat is seaworthy (as well as what to do if it isn’t). Additionally, you’ll be able to identify any issues that could risk the safety of you or your passengers.

• Kill cord usage. This quick release mechanism can stop a boat’s engine if a driver is knocked overboard or otherwise removed from the helm position.

• Launch and recovery. These skills give you the ability to launch a boat safely into water from a slipway or beach, recover a boat out of water, as well as the proper protocol for mooring.

• Basic navigation. With an RYA beginners’ course, you’ll learn the collision regulations to ensure safe operation of your boat.

Upon completion, you’ll also receive RYA qualifications in line with your courses, to demonstrate and prove your knowledge.

Many beginner courses often provide you with an RYA logbook, where you can record your learning journeys, although some courses may require you to purchase one. These beginner courses can be excellent for young boaters too.

Get ideas for fun activities to do on the water to inspire young boaters.

What safety prep do you need before starting out?

Earning a boat safety certificate is one of the best ways for you to prepare for a voyage.

While you may be able to look at checklists or advice, learning and actioning skills on an educational course can ensure that you perform the right checks to guarantee the safety of your passengers.

In the UK, many powered craft used on inland waterways will require a Boat Safety Scheme (BSS) certificate. This is similar to an MOT for boats and confirms your vessel meets minimum safety standards. For most canals, rivers, and certain lakes, a valid BSS certificate is a prerequisite for obtaining a navigation licence from the Canal & River Trust, Environment Agency, or other navigation authority. Smaller boats without engines, or boats used solely on coastal waters, may be exempt — but always check the requirements for the waterway you plan to use.

You should also make sure you have the following essentials on board:

• Fuel (in the tank). It’s not recommended to carry extra fuel on your boat, and if you do, it should be in line with the BSS regulations. That’s why it’s essential to have enough fuel in your tank for your planned journey, and an idea of where you can get more should you need it.

• Oil. It’s advisable for pilots to carry boat oil on board – especially for powerboating or boats with older engines, as these machines can consume a lot of oil.

• Battery. Try to bring a spare battery, especially if it powers navigation or safety equipment. This could be an auxiliary battery, or you might choose to use a dual battery system, or a battery switch system.

• Kill cord. Do not boat without a functioning kill cord, as these can ensure your boat ceases functioning if you move from the helm position, avoiding collisions.

• VHF. A VHF or Very High Frequency radio ensures you’re able to communicate with marinas, the coast guard or other vessels. This is vital if you’re stranded in an emergency or need support in the event of a medical incident while onboard.

• Lifejacket. If someone is knocked overboard, your boat sinks, or you need to swim to shore, it’s essential to have a lifejacket. However good you think you are in the water, it can quickly overwhelm you.

Stay safe with Honda’s marine safety checklist.

Why weather and route planning are part of the RYA learning curve

Understanding the weather and the tides can boost safety and enjoyment, which is why the RYA offer the Day Skipper Theory course.

It’s a way to understand navigation, chartwork, meteorology and other forms of seamanship theory. This way, you can plan routes that are safe, enjoyable and mapped out, so you’re not left veering off-route.

Think of boating just like you might a hike – the weather, route, time of year, appearance of the clouds and time of day can all have a significant impact on your journey.

The only difference is that boating might be even more impacted by the weather. It’s not just about storms and thrashing waves either – fog can increase the likelihood of collision, and the cold aboard a boat can be biting.

Get essential summer boating tips with Honda.

Why RYA training is essential for new boaters

We believe RYA training is crucial for future boat owners; it doesn’t just keep you safe, it can boost your confidence and enjoyment when you’re out on the water.

That’s why we offer free RYA Powerboat Level 2 training to anyone who buys anything above a BF40 outboard. You’ll get a two-day course dedicated to developing your boatmanship, giving you the best start possible.

We believe educated boaters will have a better, safer experience.

What comes next in your boating journey?

If you’re looking to advance beyond beginner skills on your boating journey, there are a few paths you could take:

• After an RYA Powerboat Level 2 course? Consider the RYA Day Skipper course to hone your navigation skills or enjoy some coastal cruising in a small powerboat.

• After an RYA Competent Crew course? Try the RYA Day Skipper Practical course to become a qualified skipper or join a local sailing club to gain experience in a controlled environment.

If you enjoy the benefits of learning, being part of a community, or supporting a hobby you love, you could also apply for an RYA Membership.

To access further RYA qualifications, why not visit your nearest RYA training centre?

Ready to start your boating adventure? Find an RYA training centre near you and explore the possibilities. And if you're considering a new outboard, remember that Honda offers a free RYA Powerboat Level 2 course with BF40+ engine purchases.