It has to be said that as the Boating World becomes open to more and more people wishing to feel the excitement and exhilaration of being on the water, Yacht brokers like Boatshed Cowes based on the Isle of Wight have a moral obligation to introduce these people to reputable training companies. Regardless of their experience and be it a dinghy or a luxury yacht it is always of benefit for new owners to gain at the very least the basic qualifications to safely enjoy their new purchase.

Training can be done on their own boat or one supplied by training schools.

On the Isle of Wight there is one such company, Griffin Marine Services based on the Isle of Wight which was started in 2003 by the Principal Tim Griffin.
Initially it offered RYA Powerboat Training up to the Advanced Level and PWC Courses as well as the Royal Life Saving Society Beach Lifeguard and Rescue Boat course and the PWC Rescue Course. Since then the school has grown in the courses it can offer.

In 2006 Tim was appointed a RYA Trainer for Powerboats and PWC (Jet ski) meaning he could train others to become Instructors and in the same year he was appointed a National Trainer for Inshore Rescue Boats for the Royal Lifesaving Society, in 2008 Tim was appointed as a examiner for those that wish to obtain the commercial endorsement to their Advanced Powerboat Certificate.

A steady growth has continued and the schools latest addition to training is the RYA Motor Cruising scheme on-board the schools Princess V40 offering the following, Helmsman Course -Day skipper – Yachtmaster Coastal and Yachtmaster Offshore.

The shore based side of the school has also continued to grow as it offers VHF DSC -Radar -First Aid and Navigation courses from Basic Navigation and Safety to Day Skipper to Coastal/ Yachtmaster level.

Griffin Marine Services are a small friendly school that are proud to be associated with the team at Boatshed Cowes. Tim commented "We admire them for their straight talking and honesty when dealing with their clients and their dedication in finding the right boat for the client."

Griffin Marine Services