Follow these essential tips for safer powerboating
There’s no such thing as bad weather, only bad clothing…
When heading out to sea, safety should always be the top priority. At Palma Powerboat School, we ensure that every student understands the importance of preparation, awareness, and good seamanship. Here are some essential safety tips for all powerboat users:
- Check the Weather – Before heading out, always check the latest weather forecast. Sudden changes in wind and sea conditions can make boating dangerous.
- Wear the Right Gear – A well-fitted lifejacket is non-negotiable. Additionally, suitable clothing and footwear can improve comfort and safety on board.
- Have the Right Equipment – Ensure you have essential safety equipment, including a VHF radio, flares, fire extinguisher, and a first aid kit.
- Know Your Limits – Understanding your experience level and avoiding challenging conditions beyond your ability is key to staying safe.
- Create a Float Plan – Inform someone onshore about your trip details, including your departure and expected return time.
- Practice Emergency Drills – Knowing how to respond in an emergency, such as a man-overboard situation or engine failure, can be life-saving.
The Importance of Lifejackets
Useless unless worn…
One of the most crucial safety measures on any boat is wearing a lifejacket. Even experienced boaters can find themselves in unexpected situations where a lifejacket can mean the difference between life and death. A sudden fall overboard, rough sea conditions or very cold temperatures, all make it essential always to wear a properly fitted lifejacket. At Palma Powerboat School, we emphasise the importance of wearing lifejackets at all times while on the water, ensuring that every student understands how to select, fit, and maintain their personal flotation device correctly.
Respecting the Limitations of Your Licence
For those who have completed an RYA Powerboat Level 2 course, it’s important to understand the limitations of your certification. This qualification permits you to operate a powerboat up to 10 meters in length in daylight hours and fair weather conditions, typically within 3 miles of shore. Exceeding these limitations without the appropriate training and certification can lead to dangerous situations. Nighttime boating, offshore trips, and more challenging conditions require additional training and experience.
At Palma Powerboat School, we encourage all powerboaters to respect their licence restrictions and continue their training if they wish to expand their boating capabilities safely. We emphasise practical training to equip our students with the skills they need to stay safe at sea.
Whether you’re a beginner or looking to refine your skills, our courses cover all aspects of safe boating.
