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RYA Powerboat Instructor Course

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RYA Powerboat Instructor (PBI) Course – Southampton

Become a Qualified RYA Powerboat Instructor

Take the next step in your boating career with the RYA Powerboat Instructor Course at Chieftain Training. Based in Southampton on the Solent, this internationally recognised qualification allows you to teach RYA Powerboat Level 1 & 2 courses anywhere in the world.

Whether you’re aiming to work commercially, instruct part-time, or enhance your own boating knowledge, this course provides the skills, confidence and certification you need.

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Why Train with Chieftain Training?

  • One of the UK’s most experienced RYA training centres
  • Delivered by highly active Instructor Trainers
  • Prime Solent location with real-world teaching conditions
  • Widest range of powerboats of any RYA Centre
  • Strong reputation for developing confident, employable instructors

We don’t just help you pass — we help you become a great instructor.

What is the RYA Powerboat Instructor Course?

The RYA Powerboat Instructor (PBI) qualification enables you to teach:

It focuses on teaching techniques, student management, and safe course delivery, rather than improving your boat handling (you should already be competent before attending).

PBI Course Overview

  • Duration: 4 days including the Skills Assessment on day 1
  • Location: Southampton Water Activity Centre (SWAC) & Hamble
  • Course Times: Typically 09:15 – 17:00
  • Maximum Candidates: RYA Powerboat Instructor training takes place with 2-6 candidates on the course. The RYA does not sanction 1:1 Instructor courses. There will be up to 3 candidates per boat.

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Powerboat Instructor Course Content

During the course, you will learn how to:

  • Deliver effective classroom and practical briefings
  • Demonstrate key Powerboat Level 2 skills
  • Manage students safely on the water
  • Structure and run RYA courses
  • Provide clear, constructive feedback
  • Handle common teaching scenarios

There is continuous assessment throughout the course rather than a final exam.

PBI Entry Requirements

To join the course, you must hold/have;

Powerboat Instructor Course Preparation

Before attending, you will need to:

  • Complete the RYA Instructor Pre course quiizes (included in your joining instructions)
  • Be confident in all Level 2 skills
  • Read the RYA Powerboat Instructor Handbook

What Happens After the Course?

Once qualified, you can:

  • Teach at RYA recognised training centres worldwide
  • Work as a freelance or full-time instructor
  • Progress to Advanced Powerboat Instructor
  • Build a career in marine training

Many of our graduates go on to instruct at SWAC, Hamble and beyond.

Location – Why Train on the Solent?

Training in Southampton Water and the Solent gives you exposure to:

  • Busy commercial traffic
  • Tidal conditions
  • Confined and open water handling
  • Realistic teaching environments

This produces more capable and confident instructors compared to inland powerboat instructor training and makes you more empoyable.

Location – Why Train with Chieftain Training at SWAC?

PBI and Advanced Instructor Courses are taught by Powerboat Trainers. We are one of the very few training centress in the world that has Two Advanced Powerboat Trainers on its staff. This means we can be much more flexible with training dates.

We have a wider range of powered craft than any other training centre in the Solent. Our Instructor courses make use of a range of 4 to 8m wheel steered RIBs, and our Rigiflex 360 and 400 tiller steered powerboat. The fleet includes single and twin engine craft.

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What is included on the PBI Course?

  • 1 day Powerboat Instructor Skills Assessment and the 3 day PBI course itself
  • 4 days of training/assessment including moderation day on day 4 with a second trainer
  • Use of our wide range of powerboats
  • Fuel
  • Loan of a life jacket
  • Free Parking
  • Tea & Coffee

What is not included on the PBI course?

  • Wet weather gear (£5 per day to hire)
  • Lunch

Course Dates & Booking

We run regular RYA Powerboat Instructor courses throughout the year. There are limited  places on each course. Dates and prices are in the calendar below. If you can not see the calendar you will need to turn of your VPN.

FAQs

What qualification do I need to before becoming a RYA Powerboat Instructor?

You need to hold the RYA Powerboat Level 2 certificate, a valid First Aid qualification. You should also have good practical boating experience well beyond Level 2.

>How long does the RYA Powerboat Instructor course take?

The course runs over 4 days and includes continuous assessment throughout, rather than a final exam.

Is the RYA Powerboat Instructor course difficult?

The course is achievable for competent boaters with solid Powerboat Level 2 skills. Preparation and confidence in your practical abilities are key to success.

Can I teach internationally with this qualification?

Yes, the RYA Powerboat Instructor qualification is recognised worldwide and allows you to teach at RYA training centres globally.

Do I need teaching experience?

No formal teaching experience is required. The course is designed to teach you instructional techniques, although good communication skills are important.

Where is the course based?

Courses are delivered from SWAC in Southampton, operating on Southampton Water and the Solent, providing a varied and realistic training environment.

How much experience do I need before becoming a Powerboat Instructor?

You should be a confident and competent powerboat handler with experience beyond RYA Powerboat Level 2. This includes docking, high-speed handling, man overboard recovery, and operating in a range of conditions.

Do I need my own boat to become an instructor?

, you do not need your own boat. All training and assessment are conducted using centre boats. Many instructors go on to work at RYA training centres rather than using their own vessels.

What is the pass rate for the RYA Powerboat Instructor course?

Pass rates are generally high for well-prepared candidates. Most unsuccessful outcomes are due to lack of preparation or insufficient practical experience rather than the assessment itself. Our pass rates for this course is very close to 100%

Can I fail the RYA Powerboat Instructor course?

Yes, as with any instructor qualification, you must meet the required standard. However, the course is designed to support and develop you, with continuous feedback throughout to help you succeed.

What is the difference between Powerboat Level 2 and Instructor level?

Powerboat Level 2 teaches you how to drive a boat safely. The Instructor course teaches you how to teach others, including lesson delivery, demonstrations, and managing students safely.

What jobs can I get as an RYA Powerboat Instructor?

Qualified instructors often work at RYA training centres, watersports centres, sailing clubs, or in the superyacht and commercial sectors. Some also freelance or combine instructing with other marine roles.

Is the RYA Powerboat Instructor qualification valid for life?

The qualification needs revalidating every 5 years. Assuming you have taught at least two Level 2 courses during that period, revalidation is simply a case of filling in a form

What should I wear on the course?

You should bring suitable boating clothing including waterproofs, warm layers, non-slip footwear, we provide a lifejacket.  Conditions on the Solent can vary, so be prepared for all weather. Wet weather gear is available to hire for £5 a day.

Is there any theory or classroom work?

Yes, the course includes classroom-based sessions focused on teaching techniques, lesson planning, and communication skills, alongside practical sessions on the water.

Can I progress to higher instructor qualifications?

Yes, after gaining experience you can progress to Advanced Powerboat Instructor and potentially into other RYA instructional schemes.

What is the minimum age to become an RYA Powerboat Instructor

Until recently it was 16, however from 1 January 2026 all new PBI candidates must be at least 18 years old (by the last day of the course).