Boat
Customized Boat Handling Sessions
We can provide instruction for both motorized and non-motorized craft, propellor-driven or jet engines, and on moving or flat water. We can start with the absolute basics if your personnel are new to boat handling, or focus on advanced skills with more experienced boat operators, or anywhere in between. In addition to hands-on boat operation, all sessions will include hazard identification, safety equipment, instruction in self rescue and the rescue of others, and recommended boat maintenance. Clients are required to utilize their own boats during training sessions. We provide an itemized training record that lists all the skills and knowledge taught and fulfills due diligence requirements for documentation of training. Alternatively, our 3-day Motorized (Swiftwater) Boat Handling course is our most comprehensive approach to motorized boat handling and safety.
Details
Duration: 1 or 2 days, as required.
Format: Mix of classroom and boat-based sessions as required, or only boat-based sessions.
Cost: 1 day = $249/person/day (based on 6 participants)
Pre-requisites
- 18+ years of age (16-17 with parental permission)
- Basic swimming ability
- In good physical condition
Required Equipment
- Personal flotation device (Type III or IV)*
- Water-sports helmet*
Suggested Equipment
- Drysuit or wetsuit*
- Neoprene gloves
- Neoprene footwear with a good walking sole, wading boots, or running shoes
- Layers of wool or fleece clothing for under the drysuit/wetsuit including sweater, pants, gloves, socks
* Rentals available - see our online registration form for details.
FAQ
More details about boat handling courses including what to expect and how to prepare. Click here for our Boat Handling FAQ.
General Objectives
These will be established according to the client’s specific needs and existing skill level, but could include the following:
- Develop a sense of confidence and the necessary skills to operate a boat in moving water.
- Familiarize and train the student in utilization of standard water rescue gear.
Behavioural Objectives
These will be established according to the client’s specific needs and existing skill level, but could include the following:
- Have a working knowledge of standard equipment including clothing, boat preparation, rope and related equipment and some specialized gear.
- Have a good knowledge of applicable communications methods, e.g. hand and whistle signals.
- Have a working knowledge of river dynamics and hazards, e.g. holes, strainers and foot entrapment.
- Be able to safely navigate moving water so as to negotiate hazards in various conditions.
- Be able to maneuver motorized boats both under power and with the engine cut.
- Self rescue from the water.
- Rescue and extricate others from the water (man overboard drills).
- Understand procedures in the event of swamping or capsizing
- Understand rescue group organization and low to high risk decision-making skills in rescue situations.
