SYDNEY, AUSTRALIA – Taking command of your Riviera is an important part of ownership and increasingly women are taking on that role, leaving it to their menfolk to worry about lines and fenders.
The team at R Marine Sydney recently completed a highly successful Ladies Licence Day in which 10 women studied and then undertook the New South Wales boating licence test. Everyone passed with flying colours.
“I was a little nervous at the beginning of the day,” said Bozena Kastowsky. “The Team at R Marine Sydney was incredibly helpful and reassuring and I was soon absorbing all the information.
“The theory required to pass the test taught me a lot. My husband and I have been involved with boating for many years, but until recently it was always sailing boats. While the basic rules are the same for all boating, it was important for me to understand the motor yachting perspective. And I am so proud and delighted that I passed!”
The morning’s activities broadened after the licence exam to a practical Tips and Tricks session.
“The session was fantastic,” said Anne Craig. “We learned a great deal, from the procedures we need to follow before we leave the dock right through to anchoring, docking and the correct way to deploy mooring lines.
“I have held a boating licence for seven years,” Anne explained. “I coach people with disabilities in the sport of rowing. So I drive a tinnie with an outboard, following the rowers. I obtained my licence when I began that role.
“The Tips and Tricks training has given me the confidence to take control of our Riviera if I need to.”
Above: The Tips and Tricks students.
For Annette Tomlinson, the Tips and Tricks training provided reinforcement for her skills.
“Simon explained the functions of the entire power-board and the electrical systems on board,” she said. “He also gave us detailed instructions in the procedures before starting the engines.
“The social aspect of the day was also important to me. I brought a friend along with me and it was great for us to get know the other ladies in a practical environment – and then at the lunch that R Marine Sydney put on for us at the yacht club next door.”
Bozena Kastowsky was also impressed by the lunch.
“It is a great location and very well organised by the team at R Marine Sydney.”
R Marine Sydney’s Simon Don said that training is a vital part of the dealership’s relationship with Riviera and Belize owners.
“We want to make sure they thoroughly enjoy their time on board their motor yachts,” he said. “A critical element of that enjoyment comes with an understanding of how to manage their motor yachts and therefore the safety of everyone on board.”
