RPBA 1101 – Close Quarters Powerboat Handling Group Course

Information about the Course

1101 Overview

This course is an intensive, 12-hour powerboat handling course that is designed to provide the skills necessary to maneuver a powerboat confidently, competently and safely in tight spaces. Successful completion of the program indicates the student has demonstrated competence in handling either a single engine powerboat equipped with bow and stern thrusters in close quarters in light wind and or currents. Core program elements include basic and advanced docking and undocking maneuvers, situational assessment and planning, crew communication and passenger safety.

For a full list of all topics (knowledge and skills) that will be covered click below.

Full List of Topics – RPBA 1101

Certification Requirements:
In order to achieve certification, a student must pass a written test that covers required “Ashore Knowledge” as well as demonstrate his or her boat handling proficiency by successfully completing the required “Underway Skills”, both of which are specified below:

Ashore Knowledge
• Power Vessel Theory
• Pre-departure planning
• Pre-departure passenger safety briefing
• Pre-departure and post-sail vessel check
• Crew communication and safety
• Correct use of a VHF Radio

Underway Skills
• Develop and execute a vessel departure plan with due consideration for wind, current, traffic and any special circumstances
• Crew communication/briefing and assignment of duties including proper sequence for casting off dock lines and fender placement/usage
• Demonstrate two methods for centering helm/wheel
• Pivot/turn vessel 360 degrees in tight quarters
• Back down a narrow channel in a straight line
• Dock bow first in a protected slip (touch and no touch)
• Dock stern first in a protected slip (touch and no touch)
• Dock bow first at a facing pier (fuel dock) both port and starboard to
• Dock stern first at a facing pier (fuel dock) both port and starboard to
• Dock bow first at a facing pier using a spring line
• Depart a facing pier using a spring line
• Develop a docking plan including crew assignments and duties, desired dock line sequence, and due consideration for elements
• Secure vessel in a slip properly (make fast) including correct placement of fenders and use of spring lines and bow & stern lines
• Perform “Post Sail” check to secure vessel and turn off equipment properly

Prerequisite – None

Boat utilized and description – 2021 Beneteau Swift Trawler 35

Trawlers have semi-displacement hulls that contribute to their performance and are designed to cut through high seas over long distances. Trawlers prompt you to explore far off islands with a powerful, reliable, efficient engine that also saves fuel. Trawlers have an excellent cruising range and can sail for hundreds of miles. The difference between the Swift Trawler and other trawlers: The Swift Trawler is fast – up to 20 knots. 

Base location – Balboa Marina, Newport Beach, CA

The boat will be docked at the Balboa Marina where our office is located.  This marina has some of the best facilities and is one of the best destinations in Southern California.

• Ample free parking
• Bathrooms and showers
• Two great restaurants with full bars – SOL Mexican Cocina & Tavern House Kitchen and Bar
• Starbucks across the street
• Gas station and minimart across the street
• Subway across the street

What’s included

• RPBA 1101 textbook “Powerboat Handling Illustrated”
• Insurance, and safety gear (including life jackets)
• Fuel is extra.  Estimate cost of fuel $30 per person.

Cost Matrix to Reschedule a Class

Call us at (949) 209-9931 with any questions or to book by phone.