Hirer training at ABC

I would like to comment on this article on behalf of ABC Leisure Group to set the record straight, writes Edward Helps.

 

Every hirer gets exactly the same training regardless of which marina a hire or managed boat leaves from. We have a fully documented boat handover system operated at all of our Marinas. Every employee doing handovers is given the same training including completing a RYA Helmsman Training course. Each location is independently audited by the British Marine Federation to ensure the handover is implemented properly and meets the required industry standards.

Strange

You go on to comment the Worcester Marina might benefit from learning from Alvechurch Marina where you have yourself experienced good tuition. This is strange because three of the staff including the Manager at Worcester have previously worked at Alvechurch Marina.

I spend a lot of time at Worcester Marina and often hear and see boat handover tuition being given and have no doubt your article is incorrect. Unfortunately we can't guarantee how much our hirers remember or how they apply the training to every situation they meet. Every boat does have a manual that covers everything they are shown and the CaRT DVD that they can refer to as a reminder. All boaters whether hirers or private have to start somewhere and unfortunately there is no substitute for practice and experience.

I would be very interested to know the boat names and dates of your alleged lack of tuition so we can investigate the matter, and would welcome you or anyone else to visit Worcester Marina on any handover day to see how this is carried out.