Why RYA Powerboat and PWC Courses Are a Game-Changer for Aspiring Yacht Crew

Benefits of RYA PB2 & PWC Courses for Yacht Crew

⚓ RYA Powerboat Level 2 (PB2)

The Royal Yachting Association (RYA)  Level 2 Powerboat Handling course, also known as the PB2 course, is a two-day course that provides basic powerboat handling and safety skills. It's a common entry point for those seeking to drive powerboats, especially in the superyacht industry, where many vessels carry powerboats and RIBs. The course covers practical skills like launching, recovery, docking, anchoring, and man overboard procedures. 

Here's a more detailed breakdown:

Course Duration:

The PB2 course is typically a two-day course. 

Target Audience:

The course is suitable for individuals looking to gain basic powerboat handling skills, including those working on superyachts or those seeking to drive powerboats under 9 meters. 

Skills Covered:

The course includes practical exercises in launching, recovery, confined space maneuvering, docking, man overboard recovery, anchoring, and basic navigation. 

Theoretical Knowledge:

The course also covers basic navigation, collision regulations, buoyage, and emergency procedures. 

International Recognition:

Successful completion of the PB2 course leads to an internationally recognized RYA certificate, allowing individuals to drive powerboats under 9 meters in various countries. 

Superyacht Industry:

Many superyachts utilize powerboats and RIBs, making the PB2 course a valuable qualification for those seeking employment in this industry.

🛥️ RYA Personal Watercraft (PWC)
The Royal Yachting Association (RYA) Personal Watercraft course, commonly referred to as the PWC or Jet Ski Licence, is a practical one-day course designed to teach safe handling and operation of personal watercraft. It's a popular and often essential certification for crew working on charter yachts or superyachts that offer water sports, especially in regions where a licence is legally required.

The course combines hands-on experience with essential safety knowledge, ensuring you can confidently and competently operate a jet ski for both personal and guest use.

Course Duration:
The PWC course is typically a one-day course, with a balance of theory and on-the-water training.

Target Audience:
This course is aimed at crew members who will operate or supervise jet ski use on yachts, as well as individuals looking to use PWCs safely for recreational purposes.

Skills Covered:
The practical training includes:

• Launching and recovery

• Low and high-speed manoeuvring

• Emergency stops and man overboard drills

• Rider safety briefings and guest supervision

• Awareness of surroundings, rules of the road, and safe practices

Theoretical Knowledge:
Students will also learn:

• Local regulations and legal requirements

• Navigation basics relevant to PWCs

• Towing techniques and safety protocols

• Environmental considerations and etiquette on the water

International Recognition:
Successful completion of the course provides an RYA PWC certificate, recognised globally. In many countries and maritime regions, this certificate is a legal requirement for operating a jet ski.

Superyacht Industry:
Many yachts and charter vessels offer PWCs as part of their guest experience. Having your PWC licence not only makes you more employable but also enables you to legally supervise and instruct guests using this equipment. It’s an excellent addition to your CV and often a requirement for deckhands and water sports staff.

🚀 Double the Skills, Double the Value

Having both the PB2 and PWC certificates not only makes your CV stand out — it shows captains you’re ready to handle responsibilities straight away. You’ll be more confident launching tenders, supervising guests, and ensuring smooth operations on the water.

In short: these qualifications get you noticed.

🎓 Train with Trilogy

At Trilogy Luxury Training in Durban, South Africa, we offer RYA-accredited PB2 and PWC courses with experienced instructors and real-world preparation. Whether you're starting your yachting journey or levelling up, these are essential stepping stones.

💡 Ask us about our Deckhand Starter Bundle — perfect if you want to hit the ground running with everything you need.