Cruising our network of inland waterways is a great holiday, or a way of life. Boats used may be cruising boats that can also be used at sea or narrow boats. Unravel the mysteries of the canals, locks etc on our one-day course.
The RYA’s Inland Waterways Helmsman’s Course is for anyone wanting to cruise the UK’s inland waterways or Europe’s extensive network of lakes, rivers and canals. As the name implies, it deals specifically with the requirements of the inland boater, whether they be a narrow boat owner or cruiser enthusiast. It assumes no prior knowledge and so is ideal for the first timer, yet the more seasoned boater will learn plenty of tricks of the trade and tips to make their boating safer and more enjoyable. It is a hands-on course with minimal theory, and is not only an opportunity to learn new skills but also a fun day out!
Most courses take place over one day and can be taken either on a centre’s boat or your own.
The course teaches you boat and personal safety, helmsmanship, basic engine checks, negotiating locks, bridges and tunnels, collision avoidance and care of the environment.
Cruising the inland waterways is great fun for all ages, and children can participate in all aspects from driving the boat, operating the locks and navigating.
The youngest that children can take this course is 12 years old. However, before you book a course check with the training centre that their boat is suitable, as helming a narrowboat can be pretty hard work!
British Waterways run a website for children to learn all about the inland waterways of the UK - see the link above.
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Inland Waterways Helmsman's Course |
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| Pre-course experience |
None |
| Assumed Knowledge |
None |
| Course content |
Safety, helmsmanship, locks and tunnels, collision avoidance |
| Ability after course |
Able to helm a vessel safely on inland waterways |
| Minimum duration |
1 or 2 days |
| Minimum age |
12. Certificates for children aged between 12 and 16 will be endorsed to show that they must use boats only under the supervision of a responsible adult. |
If you want cruise inland waterways outside the UK you are likely to need certification, usually in the form of the International Certificate of Competence (ICC) with the CEVNI endorsement. You should also be aware of the local requirements for skippers, boats and licences wherever you go and, if possible take with you a translation of your ICC. Use the links above to research the countries you wish to visit.
