If you’re serious about becoming a professional deckhand, the RYA Powerboat Level 2 course is one of the smartest investments you can make. This certification isn’t just another box to tick, it’s a practical, hands-on qualification that immediately boosts your value on board. Whether you’re ferrying guests to shore, supporting water sports activities, or assisting with logistics, knowing how to confidently and safely handle a powerboat is a core skill for any crew member.
What will you learn at SYSA?
Over two intensive days, the Powerboat Level 2 course from SYSA will equip you with the knowledge and hands-on skills needed to operate a tender with precision, confidence, and safety. Here’s a deeper look at what you’ll master:
Close Quarters Boat Handling
Learn how to manoeuvre in confined spaces such as marinas, docks, and alongside other vessels. You’ll practice smooth throttle control, steering in tight spots, and approaching pontoons with accuracy – skills you’ll use daily as a deckhand.
Man Overboard Recovery
Develop quick-response techniques for retrieving someone from the water in an emergency. This includes safe turn manoeuvres, approaching a casualty correctly, and coordinating with crew members during a real-life recovery scenario.
Driving at Planning Speed
Gain confidence in operating at higher speeds while maintaining control. You’ll cover trimming the boat, reading water conditions, adjusting for weight distribution, and executing safe high-speed turns.
Anchoring and Mooring
Understand how to anchor securely and safely. You’ll learn how to judge depth and holding ground, select the right anchor for conditions, and execute proper techniques for setting and retrieving an anchor. You’ll also cover mooring techniques to secure the vessel at docks or buoys.
Collision Regulations
Get introduced to the international “Rules of the Road” at sea. This includes Stand on and Give Way principles, sound signals, and visual navigation markers – critical for avoiding incidents and operating safely among other vessels.
Electronic Navigation
Learn the basics of onboard electronics, including GPS, chart plotters, and depth sounders. You’ll be able to plot a simple course, understand electronic chart data, and use instruments to support safe and efficient navigation. SYSA prides itself on being one of the first training centres within South Africa to adopt a Digital First mindset to navigation. This means students are getting up to date, relevant navigational training when booking with SYSA.
Why it improves your hireability
In today’s competitive yachting industry, a Powerboat Level 2 certificate is no longer optional – it’s expected. Without it, many entry-level candidates simply aren’t considered for deckhand roles. Tender driving is one of the first responsibilities given to junior crew. Captains and recruiters need to know you can handle a tender safely and confidently from day one. Completing Powerboat Level 2 proves you’re trained, capable, and ready to step into the role immediately. This internationally recognised certification strengthens your CV, shows you meet industry standards, and puts you ahead of candidates who are still catching up. If you’re serious about working in yachting, Powerboat Level 2 isn’t just an advantage – it’s a must.
Here’s how it gives you an edge:
- Meets a core requirement that many yachts now insist on for entry-level crew.
- Demonstrates your competence and professionalism from the start.
- Gives you the confidence to manage tenders safely and independently.
- Sets you apart in a crowded field of candidates competing for limited roles.
- Builds a strong foundation for future training and career progression.
Course information
- Duration: 2 days
- Location: Inland or coastal training options
- Cost: R5000
- Certification: RYA Powerboat Level II (internationally recognised)
Whether you’re just starting out or gearing up for your next role, the Powerboat Level 2 course helps you build confidence and skill where it really counts. Ready to get certified? Enrol now and take one step closer to launching your yachting career.
