SBD Courses

SBD 1

The Ski Boat Driver Level 1 (SBD 1) is the UK’s leading qualification for recreational ski boat drivers.

Recognised as the benchmark standard across inland waterski clubs, it is designed for anyone looking to drive a boat independenetly for waterskiing, wakeboarding, and other towed disciplines.

The SBD 1 hosts both theory & practical assessment to ensure you are confident and safe on the water. The SBD 1 is for inland waters only you will not be covered to drive on coastal waters with this licence.

The course typically includes:

Tutored theory session (1-2hours)
Theory assessment (a short multiple question assessment on the course content)
Practical assessment :
- 30-min familiarisation session
- 15-minute slow manoeuvring skills test
- 15-minute waterski/wakeboard driving assessment

SBD 1 test is £150

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SBD 2

SBD 2 is considered the benchmark standard for coastal boat driving across the UK. It is also a key step for anyone looking to progress into coaching.It provides formal proof of your ability to safely and confidently operate a ski boat at sea.

One of the major benefits of achieving SBD 2 is eligibility to obtain an International Certificate of Competence (ICC);

a widely recognised qualification for driving boats across European coastal and inland waters.

The course includes:

Theory Course (Approx. 4 hours)
Covering key coastal driving topics, including:
Boat hulls, engines, and propellers
Buoyancy aids and lifejackets
Collision regulations at sea
Channel markings and navigation
Nautical charts and tides
Launch and recovery procedures
Driving techniques, including towing skiers and wakeboarders

Theory Assessment:

A 30-minute multiple-choice exam based on course content
Practical Assessment
30-minute familiarisation session
15-minute slow manoeuvring skills test
15-minute waterski/wakeboard driving assessment

Entry Requirements:

To take part in the SBD 2 course, you must:

Be a current member of British Water Ski & Wakeboard
Be aged 16 or over
Have some supervised experience driving a ski boat (or be willing to take lessons)

SBD 2 test is £250

Additional costs may include:

BWSW Membership
SBD 2 Registration Fee: £40
ICC: £60 (valid for 5 years)
Combined SBD 2 & ICC application: £70

Book Here