Powerboating/ICC Courses

Learn to drive a speed boat and gain your motor boat driving licence (ICC)at Westminster Boating Base.

This information applies to both young people and adults. Our courses are conducted using our own fleet of powerboats, including light alloy assault craft equipped with Yamaha High Thrust 60hp outboard engines, and Humber Destroyer 5.8m RIBs powered by 100hp Yamaha outboards.

Certificates issued will be endorsed for planing craft. All training sessions are held at our center on the tidal Thames in London.

Please read our terms and conditions when booking a course.

RYA Level 2 National Powerboat Certificate

RYA Level 2 National Powerboat Certificate

Our minimum age for this course is 10 years but you will not be able to gain the RYA Level 2 certificate unless 12 years or over.

The course:

  • 2 day course - 16hrs - on the Thames in London
  • Recognised nationwide as the standard for hiring a boat.
  • Basis for the International Certificate of Competence (ICC) up to 10m LOA - the paperwork you need to drive a boat in Europe 
  • Suitable for complete novices
  • Includes close-quarters handling, planing manoeuvres, man overboard recovery and collision regulations.
  • Endorsed for planing craft and course will include coastal elements.
  • Taught on a maximum ratio of 3 students to 1 instructor per boat
  • Continuous learning and assessment - no exam at the end.

To obtain the ICC: The RYA level 2 certificate can be directly converted to an ICC (International Certificate of Competence, min age 16yrs). This is simply a paperwork exercise and the ICC can be obtained from the RYA. The application can be made online or if you prefer we can help you complete the application form on paper. See below for ICC eligibility. Can also include CEVNI test for inland waterways.

Times: 2-day course 10am-6pm each day.

Price: £495

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International Certificate of Competence (ICC) (pleasure craft)

Across much of Europe, the ICC is acceptable as the licence to use a British flagged vessel for leisure. The ICC may be accepted for their native flagged vessels, eg. if you were to rent a boat in Europe, but you should seek confirmation from the hirer.

  • This is often thought of as the driving licence for boats.
  • An ICC obtained after one of our RYA Powerboat Level 2 courses will endorse you for powerboats up to 10 metres in length.
  • There is no engine size restriction.
  • The ICC is accepted and required across most of Europe. It is advisable to check with the maritime authorities of individual locations as to the exact requirement.
  • Administration fee of £55 payable to the RYA with your application. Free to RYA members.

Eligibility

The UK ICC issued by the RYA, is issued on behalf of the UK Government under the authorisation of the UK Maritime and Coastguard (MCA). It is issued in conformity with Resolution No. 40 of the United Nations Economic Commission for Europe (UNECE) Working Party on Inland Water Transport.

See the Royal Yachting Association website to check eligibility and required evidence.

Visit RYA Website

CEVNI (Code Europeen Des Voies De Navigation Interieure) Test

This test allows for legal navigation of inland waterways in many European countries and assesses your knowledge of the commonly used signs, lights, and symbols. It consists of 30 multiple-choice questions, with a minimum pass mark of 22 correct answers. Thorough preparation on the signage is essential before attempting the test.

If you're booking an RYA Level 2 Powerboat course and wish to take the CEVNI test at the same time, we can accommodate this during the course—just inform your instructors at the start.

To prepare effectively, you’ll need a solid understanding of waterway signs, symbols, and lights. We recommend purchasing the RYA CEVNI Handbook (available on the RYA website HERE) to support your revision.

I have an RYA Powerboat Level 2 certificate:

If you hold an RYA Level 2 National Powerboat Certificate you can apply directly to the RYA for the ICC.

I don't have an RYA Powerboat Level 2 certificate

To get an ICC: Book an RYA Level 2 powerboat course. The price includes the Level 2 certificate.

On successful completion of the course you will be given your Level 2 certificate and the ICC paperwork (signed by the instructor) that you need to send to the RYA (with an administration fee). Once you make your application to the RYA, you should receive your ICC within 21 days, although there is a 2 day fast-track service also available.

I'm an experienced powerboat driver - without an RYA Powerboat Level 2 certificate

If you are an experienced powerboat driver you can undergo a one-day assessment of your abilities by arrangement with us. For those that have significant experience in driving boats and a thorough knowledge of navigation, a pass can usually be achieved in one day.

A one day direct assessment for experienced helms can be made on a one-to-one basis for £495 (plus administration fee payable to the RYA for the ICC certificate). Assessments are bookable by arrangement.

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Private powerboat driving tuition

Already competent and want to brush up your practical skills or theoretical knowledge? We can provide private powerboat driving tuition with up to 3 people at a time.

Price: £75 per hr (minimum 2hrs).

Email us for more information.

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