sylwia
Had great experience, Max was knowledgeable and very helpful. All went smoothly and loved every bit of it !
We partner with Rewilding Britain to help protect our natural spaces for future adventures.
All centres are vetted for safety and quality. Your adventure is in good hands with adventuro.
This one-day First Aid course is designed for anyone aged 16 and above who wants to respond confidently to emergencies in a water-based environment. You’ll learn essential first aid skills including CPR, casualty recovery, and managing cold water incidents. The qualification is valid for three years and is a pre-requisite for all RYA Instructor courses.
The day starts with classroom sessions covering core first aid principles, including assessment of casualties, CPR techniques, and recovery positions. You’ll practise applying these skills in realistic scenarios, including limited spaces such as a small boat.
Practical exercises cover cold water safety, hypothermia, and cold shock response. You’ll also learn how to manage dehydration and seasickness. Later sessions teach VHF radio usage and protocols for assisting during helicopter rescues. The day concludes with scenario-based exercises to ensure you can respond calmly and effectively in real emergencies.
Poole Harbour provides an ideal setting for practising first aid in a water-based context. Its combination of sheltered and tidal areas allows realistic scenario practice without compromising safety.
The area is secure and well-equipped, providing access to boats, mock scenarios, and training equipment. You’ll have a safe, controlled environment to focus on learning skills that could save lives on the water.
You must be at least 16 years old. No previous first aid experience is required, though a willingness to practise hands-on skills is essential.
Wear comfortable clothing suitable for practical exercises. All teaching materials and equipment are provided, but you may bring personal items such as gloves or glasses for added comfort.
The centre has over 50 years of experience in watersports and outdoor education, offering a professional yet welcoming environment for learners of all levels. It combines safe, sheltered waters with access to tidal areas, providing realistic conditions for first aid and boating practice.
Staff are experienced in water-based safety and instruction, ensuring all courses are delivered to high standards. Facilities, equipment, and practical exercises are designed to reflect real-world situations, giving you the confidence and competence to act effectively in emergencies.
The car parking area at Rockley Point is owned and administered by Rockley Park and not ourselves. Charges are made for car parking (half price if you are taking a course with us) and do not apply if you are simply picking up or dropping off others on courses with Rockley Watersports.
This course is designed for anyone involved in water sports or water-based activities, particularly those looking to become RYA Instructors or those currently holding such positions. It’s also highly beneficial for sailors, windsurfers, powerboaters, and anyone who spends significant time on or near water.
Yes, there is a practical assessment at the end of the course to ensure that participants can effectively apply the first aid techniques learned. You will need to demonstrate competence in several key areas such as CPR and hypothermia management to receive your certification.
No prior experience is required. You’ll be guided step by step through all core techniques, including CPR, casualty recovery, and cold-water response. Each skill is practised in realistic scenarios so you gain confidence.
By the end of the day, you’ll have hands-on experience applying first aid in water-based environments, making you ready to respond to real emergencies whether on boats or at clubs.
Yes, the minimum age is 16. Younger learners will be supported throughout practical exercises to ensure safety and build confidence.
All activities are designed to teach skills gradually, so you can practise in a safe, controlled environment without feeling rushed or overwhelmed.
Yes, you’ll receive an RYA First Aid certificate valid for three years. This is required for all RYA Instructor courses and is recognised by many watersports organisations.
The qualification demonstrates your competence in handling emergencies on the water and is useful for personal boating safety or professional instructor roles.
About the centre
Rockley Point Activity Centre, Napier Road, Poole, Dorset, BH15 4RW
Had great experience, Max was knowledgeable and very helpful. All went smoothly and loved every bit of it !
An excellent practical and well explained course - Fin is very knowledgeable and experienced and this was evidenced through both days.
Had a fantastic time. Our instructor Steve was brilliant. We learnt so much. Would absolutely recommend.
it was a very exciting experience in a nice group of people☺️ I recommend it to everyone!
Good trainer, learn more than I expected
Operated by Rockley Watersports, a partner of adventuro.
