RYA PWC Proficiency - Seven Seas School of Yachting

RYA PWC Proficiency Course

Jet Ski with Confidence – RYA PWC Proficiency Course

The RYA Personal Watercraft (PWC) Proficiency Course is a practical, one-day training programme that provides the essential knowledge, handling skills, and safety awareness required to operate a personal watercraft (commonly known as a jet ski) safely, confidently, and responsibly.

It focuses on real-world riding skills, collision avoidance, local regulations, and good seamanship, ensuring participants are prepared to use a PWC in a variety of conditions while minimising risk to themselves and others.

We provide this course using our own tuition jet-skis in Athens, and we also offer it as onboard training for superyacht charter guests.

As with all RYA courses, the RYA Personal Watercraft (PWC) Proficiency Course places strong emphasis on practical, hands-on training. You will spend the day on the water developing real-life riding skills, gaining experience in a variety of conditions, and building confidence through guided practice and realistic scenarios.

Key Course Information

Course Name

RYA Personal Watercraft (PWC) Proficiency

Locations

Kallithea Marina, Athens or yacht location (for superyacht guests)

Duration

1 full day of practical training (8 hours in total)

Level

Beginners

Prerequisites

No previous knowledge or experience required

Minimum Age

12 years old

Student-Instructor Ratio

Maximum ratio 6:1. A maximum of two students per jet ski, with three jet skis in total.

Formats

Shared training or private tuition on our tuition jet-skis
Onboard training for superyacht charter guests

Instructor

RYA PWC Instructor

Language of Instruction

English

What You Learn

Powercraft terminology, controls, and basic handling principles; Low-speed manoeuvring and close-quarters control; High-speed control and turning;
Coming alongside and departure techniques; Man-overboard recovery procedures; Launching and recovery; Anchoring and securing to a mooring;
Basic passage planning and navigation; Use and care of safety equipment;
Emergency procedures and collision regulations; Safe decision-making and risk awareness on the water.

Course Outcome

RYA PWC Proficiency Certificate
ICC possible (endorsemed for Personal Watercraft)

Season

Courses available year-round

Costs

€400 plus VAT (total: €496)
Inclusions: Use of tuition jet-ski, instructor fees, fuel, RYA Personal Watercraft Handbook booklet, RYA PWC Proficiency Certificate

Frequently asked questions

Who is this course for?

The PWC Proficiency Course is designed for anyone who wants to operate a personal watercraft (jet-ski) safely and confidently. This includes:

• Beginners who are new to PWCs and need foundational skills.
• Recreational riders looking to improve handling, manoeuvring, and safety awareness.
• Charter guests on superyachts who want to gain confidence and get certified to use onboard jet-skis

I am a yacht charter broker/superyacht captain. Can my guests take this course onboard?

Certainly. We also offer this course as onboard training for superyacht charter guests, using the yacht’s own jet-skis. This is especially valuable for yachts operating in areas where a jet-ski operator license is required.

Why take this course with Seven Seas?

More than just certification – Our goal is to provide meaningful training, helping you build real skills and lasting confidence on the water, not just a piece of paper.

Experienced and supportive instructors – You’ll be guided by a team of highly skilled RYA instructors with years of experience and a deep understanding of the local waters.

Sail and explore the Greek islands – Learn to sail in one of the world’s most diverse and beautiful areas, with the added bonus of cultural immersion and island discovery.

What will I learn?

The RYA Personal Watercraft (PWC) Proficiency Course is the ideal starting point for anyone new to operating a jet ski, providing the essential skills and confidence needed to use a PWC safely, responsibly, and with consideration for others.

Throughout the course, participants will be introduced to and practise the following areas:

• Preparation of the PWC and mandatory safety equipment
• PWC terminology, controls, and basic operating principles
• Correct launching and recovery procedures
• Low-speed control, manoeuvring, and close-quarters handling
• High-speed handling, steering techniques, and safe acceleration and stopping
• Operating in confined areas and around other vessels
• Riding posture, balance, and efficient handling techniques
• Collision Regulations (COLREGs) and local rules relevant to PWCs
• Awareness of swimmers, other water users, and environmentally sensitive areas
• Man-overboard awareness and emergency procedures
• Safe riding practices, hazard avoidance, and responsible decision-making on the water

Who will I be sharing the boat with?

The cap for participants on any RYA PWC Course is set at 6, ensuring optimal learning and practice opportunities for each attendee, along with dedicated attention from the instructor.

Can I book this course as private training?

Yes, you can!

We offer the option to run this course as private training, tailored to your schedule, your own boat (if applicable), and your specific learning needs. It can be organised for individuals, couples, families, or small groups who prefer a more personalised experience

Will I receive a certificate at the end of the course?

Yes, absolutely!

Upon successful completion of the course, you will be awarded the RYA Personal Watercraft (PWC) Proficiency Certificate. This recognised qualification provides evidence of your ability to operate a personal watercraft safely, responsibly, and in accordance with accepted best practice.

Holders of this certificate may also be eligible to apply to the RYA for an International Certificate of Competence (ICC) for Personal Watercraft, making it a valuable qualification for those wishing to use a PWC both in the UK and abroad.

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