Thurston Outdoor Education Centre: Whaler rowing policy
Contents
Revised: January 2022
Introduction
The centre has a 16-person 7.5m Whaler-type boat called Sandancer. She has 12 rowing positions and an outboard engine.
This activity involves considerable teamwork but has great potential for journeying and combining with self-led homing walks.
Venue
- Coniston Water is the normal venue.
- Any other venue to be approved by Head of Centre or deputy.
Staffing
- Ratio: The normal instructor / student ratio.
- Instructor to hold RYA Powerboat Level 2 and have received boat-specific training.
- Visiting Staff are considered part of the Crew and must receive training in their role as outlined in the Staff Briefing Sheet.
Equipment
- All participants to wear Buoyancy Aid.
- Boarding ladder to be available on boat.
- Instructor to have means of communication e.g. Mobile Phone or VHF Radio.
Operating considerations
- Consideration should be given to size and strength of students in the choice of rowing positions and numbers of oars to be used. Consider option of using SUP / Canoe paddles.
- Care is needed in the handling of oars, particularly with smaller students.
- Landing should only be by use of jetties. Beaching the boat is not allowed except in emergency. If intending to land (eg at Piel Island) a suitable tender (eg canoe or paddleboard) must be taken.
- Arrival and departure from the jetty should be under engine power to avoid damage to oars. (This may be varied in very calm conditions).
- Mooring clip to be backed up with rope at end of session.
- A laminated Checklist for set up and end of session is kept in the anchor locker.