RYA PWC Instructor Course
The RYA Personal Watercraft (PWC) Instructor Course is a three-day programme that trains competent jet ski riders to become qualified instructors, capable of delivering the RYA PWC Proficiency Course and the RYA Introduction to PWC Safety Course on superyachts that have been recognised as RYA Training Centres.
With personal watercraft now a standard feature on most luxury yachts, this qualification is increasingly valuable for both individual career progression and onboard safety management.
Key Course Information
Course Name
RYA Personal Watercraft (PWC) Instructor
Locations
Kallithea Marina, Athens or yacht location (for superyachts)
Duration
3 days of training (including a moderated final day)
Full days, approx. 09:00–17:00/18:00, with theory and on-water practice; some light evening homework
Prerequisites
PWC riding experience of at least two seasons
RYA PWC Proficiency Certificate
Valid First Aid qualification
Current RYA membership
Minimum Age
16 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 crew members
Instructor
1 RYA PWC Trainer, plus one moderator (for the final day)
Language of Instruction
English
What You Learn
Teaching methods, classroom theory, practical PWC handling, safety management, administration & standards
Course Outcome
RYA PWC Instructor Certificate
Season
Courses offered throughout the off-season period (November–March)
Costs
€1100 per person
Inclusions: VAT at the applicable rate, Trainer and Moderator Fees, Use of tuition crafts and fuel, learning material, Accommodation and travel costs for RYA PW Trainer and Moderator
Not included extras:
RYA Personal Membership (required for all instructors):
Under 18: £19 / Under 25: £29 / Adult: £59* per annum
*Fees subject to change. For latest stand please check here: https://www.rya.org.uk/membership/become-a-member
Frequently asked questions
Who is this course for?
• Superyacht Crew – Deck crew, watersports instructors, or bosuns who supervise guest activities and want to be formally qualified to train and brief charter guests in PWC use.
• Watersports Professionals – Instructors working at resorts, training centres, or marinas who want to add a recognised RYA teaching qualification.
• Experienced Riders – Individuals with at least two years’ PWC riding experience who wish to develop teaching skills and progress their careers in the maritime or leisure industry.
I am the captain or managing company of a superyacht. Can my crew members take this course onboard?
Certainly. We also offer this course as onboard training for superyacht crew members, using the yacht’s own jet-skis.
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) Instructor Course is designed for experienced PWC operators who wish to qualify as RYA instructors and deliver the RYA PWC Proficiency Course to a high standard. The course focuses on developing instructional ability, safety management, and a thorough understanding of RYA training methods and syllabus requirements.
Throughout the course, candidates will be trained and assessed in the following areas:
• RYA teaching methods, lesson planning, and effective communication afloat and ashore
• Conducting safety briefings, student supervision, and dynamic risk assessment
• Preparation and setup of PWCs and mandatory safety equipment for instructional use
• Demonstrating correct PWC handling techniques to RYA standards
• Launching and recovery procedures in a training environment
• Low- and high-speed handling demonstrations, including close-quarters manoeuvring
• Teaching correct riding posture, balance, and efficient handling techniques
• Application and instruction of Collision Regulations (COLREGs) and local PWC regulations
• Managing students in confined areas and in proximity to other vessels and water users
• Awareness and management of swimmers, environmentally sensitive areas, and local hazards
• Emergency procedures, including man-overboard awareness and incident management
• Promoting safe, responsible, and environmentally considerate PWC operation
Who will I be sharing the tuition jet-ski with?
The cap for participants on any RYA PWC Instructor Course is set at 6, ensuring optimal learning and practice opportunities for each attendee, along with dedicated attention from the trainer
Is there an exam and will I receive a certificate at the end of the course?
On the final (third) day, a moderation takes place: a moderator (another Trainer) observes and assesses whether instructor standards are met.
The candidate must demonstrate ability to instruct both ashore (theory) and afloat (practical).
Successful participants are recommended for the issuance of a RYA PWC Instructor Certificate.
Validity: the RYA PWC Instructor Certificate is valid for 5 years (subject to maintaining a valid First Aid certificate), after which it needs to be renewed by application to the RYA.