Wirral Watersports.
West Kirby Marine Lake
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Powerboating

Learn to drive a powerboat safely and confidently, starting on the sheltered marine lake. From an eight-year-old’s first go at the helm to the Safety Boat course club volunteers need.

Sunset over the Dee Estuary from the marine lake wall, with walkers silhouetted on the wall and Hilbre on the horizon

Powerboat courses.

RYA courses with qualified powerboat instructors, boats and lifejackets included. Wirral Watersports is an RYA Recognised Training Centre.

RYA Level 1 Start Powerboating

A practical introduction to boat handling and safety. A great first step for younger crew.

Age 8+ · 1 day

RYA Level 2 Powerboat Handling

The RYA’s best-known powerboat course. Close-quarters handling, man overboard, passage planning and the skills to drive a small powerboat on your own. Level 1 isn’t required first.

Age 12+ · 2 days

RYA Safety Boat

For anyone running safety cover for dinghy, windsurf or paddle fleets, at clubs, centres and events.

Age 16+ · needs Level 2 · 2 days

Course dates and prices go on sale before we open in spring 2027. Opening-news subscribers hear first.

Who it’s for.

Boat owners
Get the confidence to handle your own boat, and the certificate many marinas, insurers and charter companies ask for.
Club volunteers
Level 2 and Safety Boat are what most clubs want for their rescue and race-support crews.
Watersports staff
Level 2 is an entry requirement for RYA dinghy instructors. See instructor courses and staff courses.
Young drivers
Children can start at 8 with Level 1, and take Level 2 from 12.

Good to know.

Do I need Level 1 before Level 2?

No. Level 1 is a useful introduction, but you can go straight to Level 2.

How old do I need to be?

Level 1 from age 8, Level 2 from 12, and Safety Boat from 16.

Can I use Level 2 abroad?

RYA Powerboat Level 2 can be used to apply for an International Certificate of Competence (ICC), which many European countries ask for.

Can I use it for work?

For paid work you also need an RYA commercial endorsement, which has its own requirements and a minimum age of 17.

Get on the list.

Powerboat dates go on sale before we open. Sign up and we’ll tell you when they’re out.

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