Who are we?

Your instructors and hosts, the Mother and Daughter partnership of Jenny and Sam Clarke have been RYA qualified instructors since 1996 & 2 of the first ladies to qualify for this position.

This family run business has introduced many thousands of people to boating with their holidays since 1965. Norman & Jenny Clarke started by operating boating holidays on the River Thames and in 1968 moved the operation to the boatyard in Weedon where it continues to thrive today.

On successful completion of the course we are authorized to award the RYA Inland Helmsmans Certificate, which may also be used when applying to the RYA for the CEVNI International Certificate of Competence, essential for navigating on European inland waters.

It is assumed that students have no previous experience, students who start with some experience are of course also welcome, you choose whether you wish an intensive one day course, or for the novice who may prefer more time to practice their skills with the two day course, we are focused on fulfilling your needs. There are a max number of 3 students per instructor to ensure you receive maximum individual instruction and an enjoyable day.

Jennifer Clarke -
RYA Instructor

Sam Clarke -
RYA Instructor

What is the course?

This course is designed to enhance your boating experience, give you confidence and skills to make your boating a more safe and enjoyable activity. Each year more crews discover the pleasure and enjoyment that can be achieved. A canalboat is a vast investment, you want to ensure you are able to get the most pleasure out of it.

The course is aimed at anyone with an interest in inland boating. It is assumed that crews have no knowledge of boating, though you may also be looking to gain confidence and learn additional skills in making it easier to handle your own boat, or you maybe looking to venture to the European Canals where you will need an International Certificate of Competence, our RYA course gives you the practical certificate needed towards your ICC.

Why take the course?

To gain the most from your investment of a canalboat or to enhance the experience of boating an RYA Inland Helmsmans course is designed to improve the pleasures of boating.

Whether you are looking for training to improve your boat handling skills before you invest in a canalboat of your very own, before a Canalboat holiday, or a present with a difference, our RYA Inland Helmsmans courses maybe the something special you are looking for.

Our aim is to deliver fun & enjoyable training to enhance your experience of boating and to encourage the accessibility of boating through the inland waterways & each year more and more people are discovering the delights of boating. [See more at about this section at Taking the Helm]

Some words from our previous students
"I only wish I could have done this course years ago. I know I would have got a lot more fun out of our other holidays. I have gained confidence that I can handle a boat and I hope lot's of other people are able to take up the course and get a lot more out of their boating." Joanna

"Very relaxed and easy going, just how boating should be. Each student had plenty of individual attention. Gaining a qualification was an added bonus to a great day out!" Kate

"How can one improve on perfection, it was a most splendid day. I learned a lot including the fine art of "Shuggling". Perhaps you could persuade the Kingfisher to stay a little longer for photos.." Marie.