If you have your own boat and like to enjoy getting out on the Estuary – whether its to ski or just explore, but are feeling a little rusty, it may be worth booking in for a quick refresher course before you head out.
Refresher Course
Introduction to the Refresher Course
The Refresher Course will help you brush up on your boat driving skills, consolidate safety points and give you some tips on how to navigate the Estuary which changes from year to year, especially the way the sandbanks shift.
The course is for one hour and can be conducted in our boat or your own. There is an additional charge to use one of our boats and please note our boats are not available in July or August.
- The refresher is aimed at those who are already able to drive and manoeuvre a boat, but just think a little refresher to brush up their skills would be handy. Ideally all candidates should have their RYA Powerboat Level 2 or equivalent or have 10 hours driving experience. This is not a course for beginners.
- Be aged 16 years or over
What does the course cover?
Practical
The Refresher will give you the opportunity to practise your boat handling and driving skills under the supervision of one of our instructors – it will help to rebuild confidence and will cover close-quarters and slow boat manoeuvring, mooring and safety regulations.
Towing
If you need to refresh your towing skills on this course we can accommodate this too. Please advise when booking. You will need to provide a skier to tow and they will be need to be experienced enough to complete a 200 metre tow and complete a turn behind the boat. If you cannot provide a skier we can provide a member of staff to ski for you – but there will be an additional charge for this.
Estuary Navigation and Etiquette
Taking out a boat on the busy Camel Estuary requires a certain level of geographical knowledge and boating etiquette. Our Refresher course will furnish you with both, to keep you and those around you, safe.
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Why choose us
Camel Ski School operate on this Estuary year in, year out; so are best placed to deliver your Refresher Course to comply with all harbour regulations.
Qualified instructors
Our team of Instructors combine experience, patience and a wealth of expertise on boat driving skills, and towing.
Local knowledge
We know this Estuary and how it changes from year to year. We can advise on sandbanks and channels to ensure you venture out safely.
Range of Equipment
We can advise on what kit your boat may need in order to be safe to drive and safe to tow. We can supply direct from our shop if you need any equipment upgrades.
Ready to get on the water?
FAQs
Explore our Frequently Asked Questions to find quick solutions to common queries. If you can’t find what you’re looking for, our team is always happy to help.
How many people can take the Course?
We can run the course for one person only.
Can I take the Course in my boat or Camel Ski’s?
During the months of July and August all Refresher Courses MUST be taken in your own boat. Outside of these months we may be able to make a Camel Ski boat available, but there will be an additional charge for this.
Who can take the Refresher?
This course is aimed at those who can already drive a boat, but want to refresh their skills and gain confidence.
Are there changing facilities and toilets?
Most clients change on the Pontoon outside the School, so please bring towels/Dry Robes to enable this. However, we do have one shared changing room for those who prefer more formal facilities, but please be aware this may be full on busier days. Please note, we cannot hold any personal belongings in the office for you during your session so please bear this in mind when deciding what to bring with you.
Unfortunately we do not have any toilets for client use. The nearest public toilets are in the Rock Quarry Car Park at the end of Rock Road.
What do I need to bring?
Please check the local weather prior to taking the course and dress appropriately. We recommend that you bring plenty of warm clothing, even on warmer days it can get chilly out on the water, plus waterproofs and appropriate footwear for the boat. Other useful items to pack are a warm/sun hat and gloves, sunglasses and sun cream, and a water bottle. We provide buoyancy aids. We have a cafe at the Ski School selling a selection of hot and cold drinks and snacks.
Do you have lockers?
We do however have a number of small lockers available for clients which are ideal for storing a small bag and personal belongings in when you are on the water.
Is there a Café?
Yes, our Après Ski Café sells a selection of hot and cold drinks, toasted bagels, pastries cakes, crisps and snacks – perfect for breakfast or a light lunch. Outside seating available with views over the Estuary or takeaway to enjoy on the beach or boat.
What about equipment?
We have absolutely everything you will need to enjoy your time on the water with us including a huge range of equipment and buoyancy aids – all included in the price of your refresher.
What about parking?
There is parking at the Rock Quarry Car Park at the end of Rock Road, about 320 metres beyond Camel Ski School. It is open 24 hours and parking fees apply. Payment by card or RingGo – Location Code: 15661. Please allow plenty of time to park before your session, especially in the busy holiday seasons.
What happens if I need to cancel, or the weather is bad?
If you need to cancel or change your booking you can do so via our online booking system. All cancellations or changes must be made 24 hours prior to the booking. Unfortunately, any no-shows or cancellations within 24 hours cannot be refunded.
We will only cancel sessions if the conditions are dangerous – rain won’t stop us! We will of course try and give you as much notice as we can – but please be aware weather conditions can change very quickly. We will always try and rearrange your session to suit – but of course will refund fully if this is not possible. For our full cancellation policy click here.
