Mysailing is offering readers a 10% discount off any Advanced Skipper course booked before April 30, 2018
Advanced Skipper comprises a number of learning modules which test boaters' knowledge of typical on-water situations. If they pass, members hold the Advanced Skipper qualification for five years and become eligible for a range of benefits and special offers. It costs $55 to register.
The scheme is designed for boaters who may already have some on-water skills and knowledge but who would benefit from a refresher course using real-life boating scenarios. It is not intended as an alternative to boat licensing but rather as an 'advance' in terms of being more current and applicable.
Unlike licenced car drivers who get to practice their skills on a regular basis, many boat licence holders only put their knowledge into action infrequently. As a result, these boaters may benefit from having the opportunity to refresh their skills, build confidence and, hopefully, spend more time out on the water as a result. The scheme also addresses the fact that while boat ownership has stabilised, the number of licence-holders continues to grow, suggesting that there is a large number of potential boaters without regular access to a boat on which to test their skills.
The course comprises 22 scenarios set at different locations around Australia such as Sydney Harbour, Rottnest Island, Murray River and the Gold Coast but which are applicable for all boaters. The modules are not a test of boating rules knowledge but rather seek to challenge users to think through different boating situations to test their practical awareness.
Members who complete the course get access to a range of benefits offered by industry partners. For instance, Nautilus Marine Insurance offers a 5% discount off premiums up to $500 and there will be special deals on offer for the BIA boat shows this year.
Possible future developments with Advanced Skipper include adding a module for PWC users and promoting membership through boat licence and registration renewals. There is also the potential to offer on-water refresher courses to members.
To book go to www.advancedskipper.org.au and enter the code MYSAILAS18.
