Do you have a new boating adventure starting to form as an idea? The more adventurous and challenging the plan, the more planning you need to undertake. A significant factor in trip planning can be how much of the skills development you do for yourself and how much is suitable for the others you go boating with. By strategically planning your training regimen and effectively navigating team dynamics, you'll set off feeling confident, prepared, and united with your fellow boaters. This episode looks at setting up your pathway to ensure you get out there feeling ready and adequately prepared f ..read more

This episode of Boating Insights explores the shift from paper to digital navigation, highlighting recent announcements by the UK and Australian Hydrographic Offices. Join us as we discuss the evolving trends in eNavigation and the impact on maritime practices. From the convenience of digital systems to the enduring relevance of paper charts, we'll take you through the challenges and opportunities of this transition. Learn more: aabboating.com/21st-century-navigator ..read more

In the boating world, preparedness is paramount. This episode provides valuable insights into optimising communication equipment, such as distress beacons, DSC-equipped radios, and satellite phones. Discover essential tips and tricks for using these fantastic devices effectively — Prioritise safety for you and your crew by being better equipped to handle emergencies at sea. Listen now and enhance your seamanship toolkit with this vital knowledge ..read more

This podcast is here to preserve and enhance your navigation skills at sea while embracing the potential of electronic navigation systems. In this episode, 'Electronic Navigation Skills,' we delve deep into crucial techniques for seamlessly uniting electronic navigation tools with traditional seamanship expertise. Listen now to discover the secrets of mastering both the old and the new in maritime navigation ..read more

In this episode of "Boating Insights," we delve into the age-old saying, "I wish I knew then what I know now!" Join us as we uncover some hidden gems of boating – those parts of the boat you might not fully understand, items you've brought on board but never used, and essential knowledge for your crew in case the skipper is unavailable. We're here to demystify the secrets of your vessel, ensuring that your boating experience is enjoyable but also safe and informed. Online Skipper Course > ..read more

This episode celebrates the simple joy of being out on the water. Sometimes, amidst the hustle and bustle of life, we forget to take a moment to savour the beauty of our surroundings and the sheer pleasure of being afloat. So, this episode is dedicated to all of you who have ventured out onto the water – whether it's a serene lake, a meandering river, or the vast open sea. We want to say 'well done' for making that choice and reconnecting with the world around you. Join us as we dive into the importance of appreciating the environment, embracing the tranquillity of the water, and cherishing th ..read more

This episode helps you build the skills in the seamanship toolbox for everyone onboard. Learn how to identify the most useful areas to develop for yourself and your crew and plan simple, engaging and effective training sessions to try when you are next out on the water. Click here to access "Logbook" -Identity which aspects of your skippering you are confident in and establish a pathway to prepare for your adventures! The Online Skipper Course is the recommended training course we have suggested to help build on the skills mentioned in this episode > Click here to learn more ..read more

Nick Olson joins us from Predict Wind for this episode of Boating Insights. Predict Wind is a leading weather forecasting and routing company that provides accurate and reliable weather information for boaters.  The episode focuses on the following: Different models and accessing local weather data The interplay between routing and observations Using options like Iridium with GRIB files Use of currents in routing models To learn more about our weather and seamanship training courses, click here ..read more

Having an MMSI (Maritime Mobile Service Identity) programmed into your AIS (Automatic Identification System) or marine radio is essential for: Safety and Identification: The MMSI serves as a unique identifier for your vessel, allowing other vessels and maritime authorities to identify your boat quickly. In emergencies, the MMSI helps rescue services locate and assist you quickly. AIS Communication: AIS transponders use the MMSI to exchange crucial information with other vessels and shore stations. This communication enhances situational awareness, especially in busy waterways or ar ..read more

The Australian Maritime Safety Authority (AMSA) provides a search and rescue (SAR) service for Australia. Their search and rescue region covers the Australian continent and large areas of the Indian, Pacific, Southern Oceans, and Australian Antarctic territories. This region is nearly 53 million square kilometres (one-tenth of the Earth’s surface) and borders the search and rescue regions of 10 other countries. For this episode, we are joined by Linda Berryman, whose role at AMSA involves providing specialist advice on distress alerting, communication and safety systems, of which she has over ..read more