Small Workboat Stability Course

Running over a single day, participants will learn how to assess stability, calculate safe loading, and apply practical techniques to ensure the safety of their vessel and crew. Ideal for skippers, crew members, and maritime professionals, this course equips you with the knowledge to confidently operate small ships under various conditions, helping prevent accidents and maintain compliance with maritime regulations.

It fulfils the requirements for professional skippers working under the Maritime and Coastguard Agency Codes of Practice for Small Vessels Operated Commercially.

The subjects included are:

• • Basics of vessel stability and key terminology

  • Weight distribution, buoyancy, and centre of gravity

  • Loading and securing small vessels safely

  • Understanding stability curves and practical calculations

  • Effects of flooding, free surfaces, and shifting loads

  • Hands-on exercises with stability models

  • MCA safety regulations and compliance

• Target audience: Skippers, crew members, and maritime professionals operating small vessels

• Experience level: No formal qualifications required, but basic understanding of vessel operations is helpful

• Age requirement: 18

• Language: Ability to understand and communicate in English for safety instructions and course materials

• Physical ability: Must be fit enough to participate in practical exercises and handle stability models