Practical Vessel Handling Course

This course is designed to deliver the basic knowledge and skills required to be able to safely handle, maneuvering and berth your specific vessel.

In addition, we will provide the following:

1. Introduction

• Introduce yourself and Shorlink(if required)
• Outline of the session’s activities
• Expected outcomes

2. Discussion with participants about their boating background

• Months/years boating
• Type of vessels

3. Basic boat handling theory

• Single or twin engine
• Effects of tide/current
• Effects of windage
• Prop walk
• Forward and astern reareffects
• Throttle control
• Stern berthing
• Beam berthing
• Identify potential hazards and associated risks

4. Practical on-water demonstration by trainer

• Gear/throttle interaction
• Impacts of tide/current and wind
• General vessel manoeuvring
• Close quarters manoeuvring
• Identification of berth
• Aligning the vessel for berthing
• Manoeuvring the vessel into a berth
• Securing the vessel; lines, fenders
• Dealing with sudden changes; e.g., wind, tide, boat wash

5. Participants on-water vessel training

• Initial boat handling using forward and astern gear incorporating throttle control
• Identification of a berth
• Dealing with wind and/or tide
• Close quarters manoeuvring
• Berthing the vessel
• Securing the vessel; lines, fenders

6. De-brief of the session’s activities

• Outline of participants vessel handling

On completion of the Vessel Handling course you will receive a Certificate of Attendance and Completion (emailed)

What’s the cost?

Cost is $950 including GST for the owner and any operator to your specific vessel (Maximum numbers may apply).

Many clients also include the Onboard Safety Training and/or request a more detailed training session.  We offer 5% discount when two or more courses are booked at same time.

Other courses available include Practical Flares & Fire Extinguisher Training where participants set off an ‘actual’ flare and also extinguish an ‘actual’ fire.  Our Onboard Safety Training is imperative for learning lifesaving skills in emergency situations.

Are you a member of a Marine Club?

We have conducted courses for Marine Clubs all over Australia specific to their requirements.

We welcome your enquiry and offer Group Discounts.  Please either email or call on 07 4242 1412.

Why should I trust Shorlink with my safety?

Here’s a few good reasons…

• Craftsman Boatbuilder & Shipwright + Trade Qualified Shipbuilder. We know boat design & construction!
• Over 45 years as an owner, operator, and manager of commercial vessels. We know about operating vessels!
• Maritime Safety Management specialist
• Formerly an Internationally recognised Marine & Shipwright Surveyor
• Fully trained in the International Safety Management Code for the Safe Operation of Ships and Pollution Prevention