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Powerboat Level 2 Course R6000
Explore the RYA Powerboat Level 2 course at Neptune's Nautical Academy. Learn the essentials of powerboating, safety procedures, and navigation techniques. Get hands-on experience on the water with our expert instructors.
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Students learn to control a Powerboat in 2 days
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Beginner / Intermediate Course
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RYA Powerboat Level 2 Course Completion Certificate
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Training takes place at Neptune's Nautical Academy, in Hermanus New Harbour
Course Breakdown
Expectations
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Safely and confidently handle a powerboat in a variety of situations — including close-quarters manoeuvres, man overboard recovery, planing-speed handling, and anchoring.
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Navigate using basic pilotage and chart work, understanding tides, weather, and collision regulations (IRPCS).
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Operate within RYA safety standards, with the correct use of kill cords, safety equipment, and emergency procedures.
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Demonstrate seamanship and decision-making skills that prepare them for both recreational and professional boating.
The course is designed so students leave with the skills and knowledge to take charge of a powerboat in familiar waters by day, holding an internationally recognised certificate that’s accepted worldwide.
Perfect for students looking to work overseas!
Duration: 2 Days
Location: Hermanus New Harbour & surrounding coastal waters
Day 1 – Core Skills & Handling
Morning
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Welcome, registration & safety briefing
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Course outline & objectives
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Boat familiarisation – controls, kill cord, safety kit
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Pre-launch checks & preparation
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Launching procedures
Late Morning
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Slow-speed manoeuvres – ahead, astern, pivot points
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Coming alongside pontoons & moored boats
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Holding station (holding off)
Afternoon
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Picking up a mooring & making fast
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Man overboard recovery (dummy only) – head-to-wind & drift-down methods
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Introduction to planing speed handling
Day 2 – Advanced Handling & Navigation
Morning
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Planing-speed manoeuvres & safe turning techniques
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Springing off pontoons (bow & stern springs)
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Turning in confined spaces
Late Morning
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Anchoring – techniques & considerations
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GPS use, steering by compass & hand-bearing compass
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Introduction to pilotage & basic navigation
Afternoon
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Practical application of navigation – short passage plan & execution
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Local byelaws & environmental considerations
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Collision regulations (IRPCS) essentials
End of Day
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Debrief & feedback
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Certification upon successful completion
Outcome:
By the end of the course, you’ll be confident handling a powerboat at both low and planing speeds, capable of navigating short passages, and qualified with an internationally accredited RYA Powerboat Level 2 certificate.
What to Bring
To make the most of your RYA Powerboat Level 2 course, remember to bring sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, a change of clothes, lunch, and your enthusiasm for learning. Prepare for an exciting and educational experience on the water.
🌍 RYA Powerboat Level 2 – Professional Value
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Gateway Certificate: PB2 is the foundation qualification for anyone wanting to work with small boats worldwide — it’s often the minimum requirement for deckhands, dive guides, and watersports staff on yachts, resorts, or marinas.
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Commercial Endorsement: With extra steps (STCW Basic Safety, Sea Survival, Medical fitness, VHF radio, First Aid, and the RYA PPR course), PB2 can be commercially endorsed. This allows you to drive small commercial vessels (up to 10m) for hire and reward, often within local limits.
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Superyacht Industry: Many superyacht programs require crew to hold PB2 as proof they can safely drive tenders and RIBs to ferry guests.
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International Recognition: Because RYA is recognised globally, PB2 is valid in most major yachting hubs — Mediterranean, Caribbean, Middle East, Indian Ocean, and beyond.
(Please note, not suitable for South African waters by itself, SAMSA Skippers licence is required as well.)