How to earn your badge:

1. Develop your skills in one water based activity to a level where you can operate the watercraft safely.

   You could demonstrate this by gaining a personal permit. If you have completed Nautical Skills Stage 5, you should try a different water based activity.

2. Learn about flares, distress signals and marine VHF radio, and when it is appropriate to use them.

3. Learn about and explain the access and mooring issues in your chosen activity.

4. Learn about and explain the ‘nautical rules of the road’.

   Including passing other watercraft, the International Rules for Preventing Collisions at Sea (IRPCS), light signals, sound signals and the use of channels.

5. Show an understanding of the maintenance your watercraft needs.

   Show you can carry out simple repairs over the course of three months.

6. Plan and take part in an overnight expedition by water with others.

   Your time underway should be at least six hours.