This course has passed.
About the Course
The Powerboat Handling Course (PHC) is a full one day course run at Altona Yacht Club. It includes a mix of theory and on water practical training. No previous experience driving a powerboat is required, as the course is designed for complete beginners and will take you through everything step by step.
Our instructor is Mel from Mornington Yacht Club, who will be running both sessions for us. We are planning to hold two separate courses.
Why We Are Running This Course
The aim is to give more women at the club the confidence and autonomy to become involved with powerboats in a safe and supported way. Handling the powerboats can feel like a big barrier, so this course is a great opportunity to build skills. You might be interested in helping with setup and retrieval, supporting your kids on the water, or gradually working toward driving a club boat during racing or training.
Powerboat Licence Requirement
You will need a Victorian Marine Licence before attending the course. There are two ways to obtain this:
1. Self study and VicRoads test: Study the materials at home and then sit the test at a VicRoads office (approx. $235).
2. Half day licence course and test: Attend a 4-hour course (in person or online) that prepares you for the test, which you sit at the end (approx. $140 for the course, plus $235 for the license). I have been told this option is very beginner friendly.
As an example, there is an in-person licence evening course available in Williamstown on Thursday 23rd April at the Royal Yacht Club of Victoria. Details are available here:
https://www.victorianboattraining.com.au/trainingcourses/williamstown-classroom-boatpwc-course-royal-yacht-club-of-victoria-120-nelson-parade-next-to-police-station-6/
Cost
The PHC is free for participants, funded by Australian Sailing through the She Sails grant. This program supports women in gaining skills and confidence at their local sailing clubs.
The Powerboat Handling (PBH) Certificate is achieved by completing two course components:
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Powerboat Handling face-to-face course– A one-day practical course focusing on boat handling, particularly in confined areas such as marinas and in challenging conditions like swell and waves. Participants will also gain a deeper understanding of engines, different types of craft, and navigation techniques during a passage.
Together, these components provide the knowledge and practical skills required to handle a powerboat safely and confidently.
In some instances, you can take your Powerboat Handling completion certificate to your State Maritime Regulator and gain the State Boat License.
Who should complete this course?
This course is designed for participants to develop their practical powerboat driving skills. Attaining this course is a component to the PBH certificate andthat is also a requirement for becoming a Powerboat, Dinghy and/or Windsurfing Instructor.
You will gain your Powerboat Handling completion certificate.
