Gain confidence and practical skills on the water with this one-day introductory powerboat course in the Solent. Designed for beginners and families, it focuses on safety, boat handling, and practical experience to ensure you feel comfortable at the helm. By the end of the day, you’ll have the foundation to enjoy leisure boating safely and confidently.
The day starts with a brief theory session covering safety, key terminology, and pre-departure checks. This ensures you understand how to prepare both yourself and the boat before going afloat. The approach is practical, giving you confidence in what can sometimes feel unfamiliar.
Once on the water, you will focus on hands-on skills, practising low-speed manoeuvres, berthing, and mooring. You’ll also learn towing techniques and man overboard procedures, which are essential for real-world boating safety. Plenty of time is given for each participant to take the helm and practise independently under supervision.
Throughout the course, instruction is tailored to your pace and ability. With small groups, the instructor can provide personal guidance and ensure each skill is understood fully, helping you leave feeling capable and confident.
Sessions take place in the Solent, an ideal area for beginners with sheltered waters, clear navigation channels, and access to both open water and quiet bays. The region is well known for its safe training environment while still offering realistic boating conditions.
The base is situated in Hamble, a historic maritime village with easy access to pontoons, marinas, and practical training areas. Its central location provides a variety of scenarios to practise manoeuvres, mooring, and safety procedures, all within a controlled and supportive environment.
No prior boating experience is required, making this course perfect for first-timers. It is also suitable for families or anyone curious about powerboating and wishing to gain confidence safely.
Participants should be able to follow instructions, handle basic physical activity, and be comfortable on the water. Young students aged 12–15 receive an endorsed certificate in line with RYA guidance, and anyone under 18 should review the RYA Youth Powerboat scheme if required.
The sessions are led by an instructor with decades of real-world experience in sailing and powerboating, combining professional expertise with approachable guidance. Each participant receives individual attention in small groups to build confidence efficiently.
This provider focuses on making training both safe and enjoyable. The structured approach blends theory with practical skills, giving participants not only recognised certification but also the competence and confidence to enjoy boating independently.
About the centre
Hamble-le-Rice, Southampton
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.
Hampshire and Isle of Wight, United Kingdom
From £89
Hampshire and Isle of Wight, United Kingdom
From £65
Hampshire and Isle of Wight, United Kingdom
From £365
Cornwall and Isles of Scilly, United Kingdom
From £129
