Frequently Asked Questions
Q:Why get boat training?
A: No one is born knowing about boats. Boating is learned. You don't think twice about taking golf or tennis lessons from pros. The difference between these activities and boating is the element of personal safety involved. Learning from professional Skippers who have been teaching boating skills for years gives you a feeling of security on the water. As you increase your proficiency, your confidence will increase. At the National Boating College we will help you overcome boating anxieties (don't worry, you are not alone in having them!). Learning the 'why'of what you are doing as well as the 'how to' gives a more complete understanding of boating.
Q: Will I learn safety,emergency drills, rules of the road and man-overboard recovery?
A: Definitely. Safety is a large part of what we are about. Feeling safe and knowledgeable makes boating a million times more enjoyable for you, your family and friends. Our courses include an emphasis on instilling confidence and learning practical boat handling and seamanship skills - docking, anchoring, navigation, engine maintenance, onboard systems, overboard recovery, provisioning, crew briefing and most importantly how to be a good Skipper. What happens when the engine breaks down, or there's an emergency on board? It's the SKIPPERS job to plan for every eventuality, however unpleasant.
Q: Are courses certified?
A: When students successfully complete training and assessement the National Boating College presents a Certificate of Completion or Certificate of Attainment. Your guarantee of quality training is in the registration, accreditation and auditing process that we are are required to comply with. All training material is to 'industry training package modules' and the College is a 'Registered Training Organisation' with VETAB-NSW. All trainers are qualified workplace trainers and assessors and experienced commercial Skippers. The NSW Boating College (trading as the National Boating College) is a 'NSW Maritime accredited Safe Boating Course provider'.