9.1 Training

9.1 Training

▪Maximum number of people/

luggage that a craft may carry.

While some operators offer a comprehensive training scheme, including personal instruction and videos, some may not. Before departing on any boat, customers should request instruction by the owner/operator in the following items, specifically relating to the boat they are hiring:

▪Contact points for rescue services,

radio channels and relevant mobile phone numbers.

Training courses are provided by various organisations (see Appendix 9).

9.2 Insurance

▪Is the boat covered by insurance?

▪Engine operation, including

operation of controls and basic engine checks.

▪What is the extent of the

insurance cover?

▪Emergency operation of boat

▪Are there any restrictions or

equipment, e.g. emergency steering, alternative means of engine starting, anchoring.

conditions (such as suitability for use on canals or permit compliance) that apply to the insurance cover?

▪Location of all safety equipment

(including PFD/lifejackets).

Non-adherence to terms and conditions of insurance may cause difficulties and result in insurance being voided.

▪Operation of safety equipment,

including donning PFD/lifejacket, flares, radio, as applicable to boat type.

9.3 Minimum safety equipment on board

▪Fire Fighting appliance location

and use (if applicable to boat type).

All boats offered for hire without a skipper should as a minimum be fitted with the safety equipment recommended in Table E in Chapter 2 and Table F in Chapter 3, which are relevant to the area of operation of the craft.

▪Means of pumping bilges.

▪Actions in the event of running

aground.

▪Instruction in boat handling,

including berthing alongside, going astern, man overboard manoeuvres and recovery procedures (this should consist of a short practical demonstration).

▪Details of area of operation, local

weather conditions, maps/charts, Marine Notices as relevant.