Start your journey with foundational powerboat skills, learning how to operate safely and confidently on the water. The RYA Powerboat Level 2 course is the foundational qualification for core boat handling, navigation, and safe operation in a variety of conditions.
Once qualified, you can take on the vital role of powerboat driver during water-based activities, alongside an experienced safety boat operator. This includes supporting rescues, managing group safety, and working as part of a coordinated team. To build on these skills, we support individuals to complete the RYA Safety Boat course, which focuses on rescue techniques and supporting a range of craft in dynamic environments.
For those looking to push further, there are opportunities to develop advanced powerboat skills, including handling in challenging conditions and navigation in poor visibility. Instructor development pathways are also available for those keen to teach and mentor others.
Once PB2 qualified, you can request to borrow powerboats for training, events, and taking your own group on the water.
Powerboating is tricky to do with a youth section as a day out. Your options are limited to more commercial tourism providers or borrowing power boats via Splashu to use yourself on a lake. You can also submit an enquiry to us for a bespoke session, and our powerboat lead will explore what’s possible (we cannot guarantee to accommodate every request).
Powerboat level 2 course
The RYA Powerboat Level 2 course is the best place to start if your interested in operating powerboats. The level 2 course provides foundational skills in operating powerboats safely, and is the pre-requisite for operating a powerboat at most places
We aim to increase availability of such courses to West Lancs Members, so please do submit an enquiry if your interested in attending a course.
Supporting water activities
We regularly run water activities supported by safety boat crews. Crewing on a powerboat is a great way to get some hands on experience on the water and get an idea of what’s involved in operating a powerboat. Once you achieve your level 2 and scout permit, you’ll be able to drive powerboats on Splashu activities.
Advanced skill development and courses
The best way to develop and enhance your skills is through activity centre courses. Through our partners, such as Waterside Lodge Southport, and Lancashire School Sailing Association, we have access to powerboat level 2 and safety boat courses. We are also actively exploring organising advanced powerboating and instructor courses in future.
What is a permit?
To lead a water activities session for young people, as a Scout instructor, you will need an activities permit. To gain one you make an application to an assessor for the activity you want to lead, and they check your skills, experience and suitability for the permit requested
Starting point
To gain a permit, you will need to demonstrate competency in the activity you want to lead, and skills in working with groups of young people. Getting on the water regularly and working towards qualifications is a strong path to gaining a permit
Support to gain a permit
Splashu is keen to support those who wish to gain permits. The best way to gain a powerboat permit is to complete the RYA Powerboat Level 2 course. We can offer access to skills development courses and a buddy to support progression towards a permit. In some cases, we may be able to offer support towards funding. Support is also available via the adventurous activity development team. More information can be found here https://westlancsscouts.org.uk/activities/adventurous-activity-permit-scheme/
Permit assessment opportunities
Splashu can organise permit assessments ad-hoc, during an existing activity or through permit assessment events. Either book onto one of our upcoming permit assessment days, or drop us an enquiry to see if we can accommodate an individual assessment.
Join the safety boat team
We are always looking for help on the water. If your a powerboat operator or an enthusiast keen to help on the water, pleas get in touch!.
Our ambition is to offer a programme of expeditions and international trips. We are keen to hear from experienced powerboaters/power cruisers, with an interest in mentoring young people, leading adventurous journeys, and shaping unforgettable experiences on the water. We welcome your expertise and enthusiasm to help inspire the next generation of instructors