Dry theory on the flipchart? Not with us! If you want to learn how to operate a motorboat safely and nautically, the best way to do this is directly on board. In October, 23 BOOTE readers once again took part in a boating training course on Mallorca. Together with our long-standing partners Pantaenius Yachtversicherungen, Boote Polch and the OnWater boat school, we took to the water with various models from Axopar and Nimbus. The syllabus included, for example, mooring and casting off manoeuvres in different wind conditions. The participants had the opportunity to compare the handling behaviour of boats with one and two engines. Another training session was dedicated to anchoring: where to find safe places, how to use the anchoring gear and how to recognise whether the anchor has taken hold or not.
Of course, driving fun was not neglected either. Fast driving in particular needs to be learnt. You shouldn't just push the throttle all the way forwards. Correct and safe straight-ahead and, above all, cornering needs to be learnt. Especially in waves. Our team of trainers were on hand to provide the participants with help and advice and showed them how to control a boat confidently at all times, even at high speeds.
Highlight of BOOTE driver training
A special highlight this year was a night cruise for the first time. In front of the impressively illuminated cathedral of Palma, it quickly became clear how brightly lit stretches of coast or shore can be and how difficult it is to recognise and identify sea marks. In the dark or even in fog, modern navigation technology can help. However, the skipper must also know how to use AIS, radar or a night vision camera. Thanks to the extensively equipped boats from Polch, which were available at Port Calanova, the systems and equipment could be tried out in practice.
Safety and special manoeuvres are another important part of every BOOTE driving training course. Pantaenius expert Ole Pietschke not only explained the correct procedure for a man-overboard manoeuvre step by step. He also demonstrated the use of a survival suit and sent one of the participants into the water with it.
During the final practical session, everyone was able to apply, refine and consolidate their newly acquired skills. A joint lunch on board against the impressive backdrop of Mallorca rounded off the training. Almost all of the participants already had a pleasure craft licence. Basic knowledge such as course keeping and general boat handling was therefore available. Nevertheless, it became apparent that many lacked driving experience. In the end, everyone agreed that the intensive training had helped them to overcome their insecurities and gain routine instead. This not only benefits the skipper in everyday life on board, but also the crew. If the man or woman at the helm radiates calm and confidence, this is automatically transferred to the passengers.
This quickly became apparent during training on Mallorca. No wonder the participants can hardly wait for the next trip on their own keel or with the charter boat.
