RYA Powerboat Level 2 — the tender-driving ticket almost every deckhand needs.
RYA Powerboat Level 2 is one of the most useful tickets a deckhand can hold — it's the standard qualification for driving a yacht's tenders and toys, and many captains treat it as a must-have. The two-day course covers boat handling, launching and recovery, and man-overboard drills. It's practical and hands-on, so location and access to the water matter. Here are strong RYA training centres, led by Flying Fish.
Some links on this page may be affiliate links — if you book through one, YachtSync may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. It doesn't affect the order below; rankings are editorial.
My own starting point — I trained with Flying Fish back in 2018. Purpose-built superyacht training base on the water in Cowes, RYA Training Centre and MCA-approved, with one of the widest course ranges in the UK: STCW, deckhand and interior packages right through to Yachtmaster. Book online and hold a place for 48 hours.
Large charity-run academy in Cowes, MCA-approved and an RYA Training Centre, also running full cadetship pathways for crew who want the professional route.
Southampton RYA Training Centre offering entry-level superyacht deckhand packages.
Plymouth RYA Recognised Training Centre, strong on practical powerboat, tender and shorebased courses on the South West coast.
Falmouth RYA Training Centre and SuperyachtUK member, a popular South West base for powerboat handling and building sea time.
Antibes-based, MCA and RYA approved, right in the heart of the French Riviera crew hub.
Palma RYA Yachtmaster school, long established in the Med and known for its practical mile-building.
Sydney academy, IYT / MCA / AMSA approved — the established pathway for crew starting out in Australia.
This is our shortlist. See every accredited provider offering RYA Powerboat / Tender in the full RYA Powerboat / Tender directory →
Looking wider? See our best PWC and RIB courses →
It is not always legally required, but RYA Powerboat Level 2 is expected on most yachts as it qualifies you to drive tenders, so it makes green deck crew far more employable.
The course is typically two days of practical on-water training. Experienced drivers can sometimes take a shorter direct assessment.
Close-quarters boat handling, high-speed driving, launching and recovery, man-overboard recovery and passage planning for small powerboats and tenders.
YachtSync is a free app that keeps all your maritime tickets and expiry dates in one place, with the full training directory alongside.
Get YachtSync free