Whether you’re newly qualified, developing your experience on the water or an instructor helping others take their first steps in powerboating, the new RYA Powerboat Handling book offers a practical guide to becoming a safer, more capable and more confident powerboat user.

Now available from the RYA shop, the new handbook has been designed to help readers build on the foundations of powerboating, refresh essential knowledge and understand the practical decisions that contribute to a safe and enjoyable day afloat.

Rather than simply revisiting course topics, the book takes a fresh, scenario-based approach, following the journey of a complete day on the water. From choosing the right clothing and preparing equipment, through planning, launching, boat handling and navigation, to returning ashore and looking after your boat, it brings together the knowledge and skills needed to make the most of time afloat.

A practical approach to learning

The handbook is structured around six key stages of the powerboating journey:

• Prepare: Get yourself, your crew and your equipment ready for the day.

• Plan: Consider the conditions, your destination and the decisions needed before setting off.

• Navigate: Develop your understanding of basic navigation and making informed decisions on the water.

• Launch: Build confidence in preparing and launching your boat safely.

• Operate: Put practical boat-handling skills into practice and develop confidence afloat.

• Own and develop: Understand the responsibilities of boat ownership and how to continue building your skills and experience.

This real-world structure makes the book a valuable resource for those who have recently completed RYA Powerboat Level 2 and want to consolidate their learning, as well as more experienced boaters looking for a useful reference.

It also provides instructors with a resource to support conversations with new powerboat users, reinforce good habits and encourage students to think beyond the immediate requirements of their course.

Supporting the next stage of your powerboating journey

Whether you’re preparing to take friends or family afloat, considering buying your own boat or simply looking to refresh your knowledge before your next trip, RYA Powerboat Handling offers practical guidance to help you make informed decisions and get more from your time on the water.

The book complements the RYA’s existing Start Powerboating title, taking readers further into the practical realities of planning, navigation and boat handling.

RYA Powerboat Handling is available now from the RYA shop, priced at £15.99, with a 15% discount for RYA members.

The definitive owner’s handbook for powerboating.