Interview with boaters Kim & Gayle Advanced Nautical Training
It had been over 30 years since we completed a training course to obtain our boat licences. We originally planned to buy a boat and incorporate boating into our lives, but various life events delayed those plans.
Now that we own a boat, we realised that while our licences were still valid, our confidence and knowledge were not as up to date as they should be for safe boating.
We reached out to Karla of Nautical Training & Marine Services because we didn’t want to be the kind of people with a nice boat who are a hazard to themselves and others.
WHERE WAS THE TRAINING CONDUCTED?
Southport, Gold Coast. We live in Far North Queensland but wanted high-quality training in waters where crocodile risk wasn’t a constant concern. After thorough research, we decided to transport our boat nearly 2,000 km south to the Gold Coast to train with Karla.
WHAT IS THE BRAND AND MODEL OF YOUR BOAT?
We have a Microcat Sidewinder 5.0, an aluminium boat with twin hulls, side consoles, and a 100hp Honda outboard. It may not be the prettiest boat, but BOAT GUIDE we love its stability and versatility—it’s like a 4WD on the water The large flat deck offers ample space for passengers and gear. Our ultimate goal is to take it touring and camp on the spacious front deck.
WHAT WAS THE HIGHLIGHT OF THE TRAINING?
Training with Karla in our own boat was invaluable. She assessed our gear and skills while coaching us through techniques tailored specifically to our needs. Her approach was thorough and systematic, covering trip planning, navigation, safety, docking, and gear setup.
Some of the material refreshed what we already knew, while other techniques—like using spring lines for safe docking—were completely new to us.
We particularly enjoyed Day 2, when we applied our new skills on a day trip to Tipplers, a journey we had dreamed about for over 30 years.
WHAT CHALLENGES DID YOU OVERCOME DURING TRAINING?
Our biggest challenge was confidence. It was reassuring to address our uncertainties headon, with Karla available to answer questions, demonstrate techniques, and correct any mistakes in real time. By the end of the training, we felt competent and assured in our abilities.
The confidence boost was so significant that the following day, we took Kim’s octogenarian parents back to Tipplers for a fantastic family outing.
WHAT ARE YOUR THOUGHTS ON THE TRAINING?
We firmly believe that hands-on coaching, using the correct equipment in real situations, is irreplaceable.
Karla’s methodical, practical instruction was excellent. We now see her as an ongoing resource for improving our boating skills and will definitely reach out for future training updates and refreshers.
For more information, visit: www.nauticaltraining.com.au
Karla from Nautical Training & Marine Services offers a range of courses including:
– Recreational Marine Driver Licence
– Personal Watercraft Licence
– AMSA Coxswain Grade 3 NC (less than 12m)
– 1 Day Sea Service on 6m vessel
– 5 Day Sea Service on 15m vessel
– Private and Group Classes
– Offshore, Whitsundays & Night Navigation
– Onboard Practicals, conducted on your vessel or onboard Nautical Training’s vessel
Published in print April-July 2025
