This is the perfect reference for anyone using a powerboat whether you are just starting or need a refresher. The primary themes throughout the book are safety and fun with regular checklists at every stage. The book starts before you even get on the water with fully illustrated descriptions of types of boat, engine and trailer along with key advice about how to get the right combination for your needs - of course the black art of reversing a trailer and not getting a boot full of water are covered. Once you are on the water, there are hints and exercises to develop boat handling before moving on to how to handle the boat at speed and what to do when you have to stop at a jetty, buoy or with an anchor.


An introduction to navigation and tides will enable the powerboater to travel securely whilst prompting an interest in developing their navigation skills. Critical safety issues such as Man Overboard, travelling at night and First Aid are covered in considerable detail and with clear photographs, as is guidance on keeping your boat in good condition.


The book contains over 300 photographs and illustration and we recommend it for all RYA Powerboating courses from Level 1 to Advanced.

* Quick Start Guide
* What is a Powerboat?
* The Boat
* Water and Wind
* What do you need?
* On the Road, Launch and Recovery
* Key in the Ignition
* Moving Off
* Develop your Skills
* Anchoring
* Life Begins at 40? Maybe, but try 25
* Weather
* Navigation and Chartwork
* Communication
* We're running late and it's getting dark/When the fog comes down...
* Man Overboard
* First Aid
* Engine
* Boat Maintenance
* Recovery
* Towing - Long and Side