Both exotic beaches and local waters can be comfortably discovered by boat. However, if you want to admire nature and visit charming harbor towns, you should first acquire a boat license. The first step to passing the theoretical and practical exam is the high-quality, high-quality boating license course. In the article we will tell you how to find the right course and prepare for the exam.
That’s why a quality boating license course is so important
“A good captain not only knows the sea, but also his ship.” (James Cook).
A boat operator should have certain skills and be able to maneuver safely, deal with navigation and meteorology andon sailboats– can put on and take off. In addition, some basic knowledge is very important for safety on the board. These are acquired during theoretical and practical training. The fundamental questions surrounding theBoat license onlineanswered. A high-quality course offers, among other things:
- useful course materials that are accessible all year round. The theoretical part also includes videos where certain maneuvers are shown.
- can ask specific questions during 1:1 sessions with an instructor.
- Year-round access to a learning platform so that everyone can organize their learning time flexibly.
- Exam simulator so you can test what you have learned.
- Practical training and test drive.
The best ways to find a course
The first step to getting a boating license is to find the right course. There are sailing boat schools, motor boat schools, a combination of both and special licenses such as for Lake Constance or for a yacht. High quality schools can advise you by phone or online.
The type of teaching (weekend courses, evening courses or webinars) is also very important. Online courses have become successful in recent years. They offer several advantages: You can structure the learning time flexibly, but still have a contact person. The materials are always accessible, and in most cases you can even test your knowledge.
A reputable boating school should have many practical partners where driving lessons can be carried out.
Boat school checklist:
1. Does the school offer sufficient materials? Do you have a contact person?
2. Are the costs for the training listed in a manageable manner?
3. Are there online reviews of the boating school?
4. Is there additional information on the website? A blog is usually a sign that the school is knowledgeable about various topics and wants to offer as much useful information as possible.
Tips and tricks for successful exam preparation
Planning the correct order of exams and dividing the materials into learning modules is crucial for success. Many beginners are not prepared for a motor or sailing boat and are initially open to all waters. In this case, combination courses for the compulsory SBF SEe, Binnen and/or BSP certificates are completed first. These usually last around 2 months.
The best thing to do is to take the exams for SBF sea, inland under motor and just the theory for SBF inland under sail. This way you can save yourself the basic questions for the theory of SBF internally.
Anyone who would like to have a yacht license must also pass the voluntary SKS test. It takes an average of three months to prepare. It's best to book both theory and practical lessons at the beginning. The so-called skipper trainings are organized in advance. This way you can collect the necessary 300 nautical miles and learn to sail in a group or alone with an instructor.
Necessary skills and core competencies
During a course you should acquire certain skills depending on the type of boat and the license you have acquired. As already mentioned, this includes experience as a skipper, safe anchoring, docking and casting off, as well as navigation via GPS, nautical chart and compass, but also the handling of engines, electrical systems and toilet facilities. You should also definitely learn to guide the other people on the board and give tips.
