Powerboating

What is a power boating permit? (Scout Assoc Definition)

The adventurous activity permit scheme is designed to ensure that only people with the relevant skills and experience lead adventurous activities for the young people. Therefore, all activities classed as adventurous can only be led by someone holding the appropriate permit. Additionally, young people (under 18) can take part in adventurous activities for themselves with personal activity permits.

A power boating permit is required for all power boating taking place in any class of water

  • What is power boating? Power boats are powered by an engine and do not have and are not designed to have accommodation and where all people on board can always be seen by the helm. Boats which do not fit into this definition should refer to motor cruising. i.e. if it has a cabin then there is a good chance it is not a "powerboat" in the scout Assoc’s definition.

  • A permit to helm own boat means just that, take the helm of your boat, you cannot allow other people to drive.

  • If you have permit to lead powerboating then you can look after only one power boat at a time, and need to remain in the boat whenever it is being used

  • If you hold a permit to supervise power boating, then you can supervise up to three boats. All supervised boats should be within communication range of the permit holder who will need to be in or have immediate access to a rescue craft. You remain responsible for all the groups you are supervising but can designate someone with the appropriate skills to be the leader of each boat.

All planning craft should be fitted with a kill cord, they can be retro fitted easily to all outboards that have been built in the 90's onward and there is no excuse I can think of for not using it. Not using a kill cord would be an instant permit assessment failure for me and if I saw someone not using one I would be talking to the DC about re-training/assessment or removal of permit!

RYA advice and recommendations:

  • The RYA recommends that the kill cord be attached around the leg. It should not foul the steering or gear controls.

  • The RYA does not recommend extending the length of the kill cord provided by the manufacturer of the engine.

  • Always check your kill cord works at the start of each day or session and check it regularly for signs of wear.

  • When replacing kill cords, purchase a genuine replacement lanyard with a strengthening cord through the middle.

  • Do not leave kill cords out in the elements. Extremes of temperature and UV light will harm the lanyard in the long term.

  • If your lanyard has a fabric outer sheath, but has lost its spiral tension, it is advisable to replace it as it is possible that the inner strengthening cord may be damaged.

  • Keep a spare kill cord on board.

For more detailed advice on kill cords visit Safe Boating and for the video visit RYA Safety Advisories.