Island Life Magazine Ltd April/May 2018 | Page 57

Training for everyone A familiar sight in Bembridge Harbour since 2004, Bembridge Powerboat Training provides RYA Powerboat courses for everyone from raw beginners, right through to those working towards advanced and commercial qualifications. Its RIBs also offer family and group charters around the Solent and the Island, and its main RIB has a ‘workboat endorsement’ on the MCA coding and runs as a Press Boat to many of the Solent Regattas. With the start of the 2018 season, BPT is now operating from both Bembridge and Cowes, and following this year’s addition of PWCs (Jet Skis), it has already had 40 PWC Proficiency students out on the water since January! ‘Hand held’ VHF’s have also been added to the VHF/SRC training – ideal for those using PWC’s, SUPs and kayaks. The VHF is a primary piece of safety equipment to be carried on any craft and required by law to hold a minimum qualification of the SRC. BPT will be using the Cowes base to run other RYA Training, including a number of the shore-based navigation courses, Day Skipper, Yachtmaster, etc. along with radar and diesel engine – and instructors and skippers are looking forward to welcoming new students. Find Bembridge Powerboat Training at Bembridge Harbour and on the River Medina in Cowes or call 01983 778077. Visit the website at www.powerboat- training.com. www.visitilife.com 57